UNMC, Creighton students and faculty network

Rubens Pamies, M.D., UNMC vice chancellor for academic affairs, left, and Sade Kosoko-Lasaki, M.D., associate vice president of health sciences at Creighton University, discuss upcoming network events.

From left, Francisco Machuca, M.D., UNMC family practice resident greets Chantal Afuh, UNMC third-year medical student and Kossivi Dantey, UNMC first-year medical student.

UNMC faculty members, Tina Flores, M.D., left, and Sheritta Strong, M.D., right, discuss the transition from resident to faculty member.

It has become an annual tradition. But this year, UNMC’s minority students and faculty invited students and faculty from Creighton University to join their networking event.

The event is an opportunity for students to meet people from different professional programs. Students also are encouraged to gain mentors and support other students.

“We hope that you all will collaborate, network and develop friendships that benefit both groups,” said Rubens Pamies, M.D., UNMC vice chancellor for academic affairs. “I don’t have to tell you that professional school is challenging but if you work together you can achieve your goals.”

“You need people who aren’t on your campus to share with, talk with and mentor,” said Sade Kosoko-Lasaki, M.D., associate vice president of health sciences at Creighton University. “Perhaps a student or faculty member at another campus can help you understand a particular concept. I encourage you to reach out and help each other succeed.”

It is a message that resonates with LaKeisha Cox, a new UNMC student in the post-baccalaureate program.

“You’re learning the same concepts so you might as well network with other students,” Cox said.

Just months ago, she was a Creighton University pre-med student. As one of three new UNMC students with ties to Creighton, she points out a distinction between the two institutions.

“I’m from Nebraska and at UNMC there are more Nebraska students,” she said. “It is a real benefit for those of us who want to work and serve our Nebraska communities.”

Given the low percentages of minority health care professionals nationwide, Dr. Pamies said, it is imperative for students to support each other.

“Professional school is competitive, but there is no reason to compete against others in this room,” he said. “There is plenty of opportunity for all of you to succeed.”