WesternU MSMS students present research posters
Western University of Health Sciences Master of Science in Medical Sciences (MSMS) students are capping a whirlwind year by presenting their research posters and preparing for Commencement.
WesternU’s College of Health Sciences held its annual MSMS Research Symposium April 30, 2025 on the WesternU California campus. In addition to poster presentations, the symposium featured keynote speaker Briana Greene, MD, who talked about her personal journey as well as the global relief efforts she undertakes through her nonprofit From Hearts 2 Hands.
“If you’ve had delays or bumps in your journey, you’re in good company,” Greene said. “I’ve been there, and this is why I share my story. There is no shame in not having a traditional path. I encourage you to talk about it so the things you want to do become reality.”
Dr. Greene encouraged MSMS students to always be lifelong learners. Her closing inspirational statement was, “What is the wrong you were born to right?”
“That’s going to look different for all of us,” she said. “We will all spend our lives answering that question. I don’t believe changing to world is a cliche phrase. I think all of you are going to be part of it.”
MSMS student Nicholas Bermeo said he thought Dr. Greene’s presentation was amazing. He also went through a few application cycles before being accepted.
“Going through this route prepared me and helped me with my self confidence,” Bermeo said.
Bermeo said he had no research experience before entering the MSMS program. He conducted research with College of Dental Medicine Professor and Assistant Dean for Research Jill Lewis, PhD, and Lab Manager Daniel Enriquez, who were very helpful and walked him through the process.
“This gave me a lot of hands-on experience,” Bermeo said. “It required a lot more of a time commitment, but it was more satisfying to put the time in to get these results.”
MSMS student Alexa Christine Cabrera said she enjoyed the symposium because it provided a chance to network with other MSMS students and faculty from other WesternU colleges.
“It’s nice to be able to sit down and explain what we have been doing this entire time in this program,” Cabrera said. “I think it’s important to understand how research works because we’re constantly learning new things every day. We need to differentiate between what’s true and what’s just being put out there as false information.”
“As Dean of the College of Health Sciences, seeing the posters and engaging with our scholars was both inspiring and affirming, as it showcased their intellectual curiosity, perseverance, and passion for discovery,” said CHS Dean Gail Evans Grayson, EdD, MA. “Highlighting and encouraging student research is essential to the mission of the CHS because it cultivates critical thinking, deepens academic engagement, and prepares future health professionals to lead with knowledge and purpose.”
“I am always in awe of the work and dedication shown by all of our students and research mentors,” said CHS Department of Medical Sciences Chair and Associate Professor Jenniffer Licero Campbell, PhD. “The MSMS Research Symposium is, in a way, the culmination of the MSMS journey and the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for our amazing students. The Department of Medical Sciences is proud of all of you and your achievements, and we look forward to your continued success.”
