This week Ambika sits down with Dr. Amalfitano DO, PhD, who serves as the Interim Dean at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is also the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation endowed professor of pediatrics, microbiology and molecular genetics and director of the MSU Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute. Having earned all of his degrees at MSU, Dr.Amalfitano is an immense inspiration to Spartans - Go Green! 

Dr. Amalfitano is a proud DO and explains what the osteopathic philosophy entails. He elaborates on "the art of medicine" and osteopathic manipulative therapy (OMT) in which DOs receive 200 hours of training -- a key difference between allopathic and osteopathic medical education. 

Dr.Amalfitano also describes how MSUCOM is shaping the future of osteopathic medicine through world-class, student-centered medical education and research. SpartanDOs purposely work to build thriving communities, where all can grow and learn together. Therefore, he advises premedical DO aspirants to immerse themselves in their communities to serve and learn from those different from themselves. 

This episode can provide insight to anyone interested in healthcare, as osteopathic medicine is the fastest growing medical profession in the United States. If you're applying to osteopathic medical schools this application cycle, this episode can better inform your decision and prepare you to answer one of the most important questions you'll be asked during the application process: "Why osteopathic medicine?". 

For more information on osteopathic medicine, check out Dr.Amalfitano's article.