PNWU is proud to celebrate Student Doctor Megan Nelson, PNWU College of Osteopathic Medicine Class of 2025, for being named a Student Civic Leadership Awardee by the Washington Campus Coalition. The prestigious honor recognizes her commitment to service, leadership, and advocacy — values that have shaped her path from Alaska to PNWU; a journey that was anything but straightforward.
After two application cycles filled with setbacks, Student Dr. Nelson refused to give up. Seeking guidance, she reached out to admissions counselors and found a lifeline in PNWU’s recommendation to pursue the Master of Arts in Medical Sciences (MAMS) program at Heritage University.
At the time, relocating from Alaska to Yakima was a difficult decision for her family. With her children still young, she and her husband chose for them to remain in Alaska while she pursued her studies. When the COVID-19 pandemic shifted MAMS courses online, she was able to spend another year at home before fully committing to medical school.
Ultimately, with guidance from mentors like Dr. Mark Taylor, Director of PNWU’s MAMS program, she embraced the challenges ahead, excelling in the transformative master’s program and ultimately securing her place in PNWU’s College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Now in her fourth year of the DO program, Student Dr. Nelson is completing her clinical rotations in Anchorage, gaining firsthand experience with the unique challenges of practicing medicine in her home state.
Where others see insurmountable hurdles – things like limited access to care, constrained resources, and a shortage of preceptors – Student Dr. Nelson sees opportunity, and a calling to step up and make an impact.
“People appreciate having a provider who understands the community and its challenges.”
“Being an Alaskan gave me an immediate connection with patients,” she shared. “People appreciate having a provider who understands the community and its challenges.”
To secure meaningful clinical experiences, Student Dr. Nelson took the initiative — calling, networking, and advocating for her education. These efforts reflect the same determination that has marked her entire medical journey.
When she learned that, as a result of that tireless journey, she had been selected for the Student Civic Leadership Award, she was both surprised and deeply honored.
Truthfully, she hadn’t expected to be in the running for such an award, given the demands of clinical rotations. But her ongoing commitment — to not only her community, but her fellow students and future healthcare professionals — was not unnoticed.
“I haven’t led any big projects recently,” she admitted, “but I’ve always been committed to supporting my peers and sharing resources to help those who come after me. It’s humbling to know that those efforts have resonated with others.”
Balancing the challenges of being a medical student, community leader, and mother of two, Student Dr. Nelson laughs when asked about “balance.”
“I love involving my kids in my service work.”
“It’s pure chaos and strict timing!” she exclaimed, “but I love involving my kids in my service work. It’s a way for them to learn the importance of giving back while also allowing me to make a difference.”
One of her most rewarding service experiences has been coaching Special Olympics gymnastics, a role she initially took on due to her lifelong passion for the sport. Over the years, her daughter has joined her in volunteering, making it a family tradition of service and advocacy.
Through all of her experiences, Student Dr. Nelson has learned that true leadership comes from stepping up, embracing challenges, and being fully present.
“Healthcare is not just about treating patients; it’s about truly connecting with them.”
“One of the most valuable lessons in life is learning to be comfortable with discomfort,” said Student Dr. Nelson. “Immerse yourself in every experience, whether it’s your studies, clinical rotations, or community service. Healthcare is not just about treating patients; it’s about truly connecting with them.”