Meet the Scholar – Shannon Buehre

How did you first become aware of the Wetzel Scholar Program?

I first learned about the Wetzel Scholar Program in my first year. After serving as KCOM chapter president, I wanted to continue my MAOPS involvement in a meaningful way, and the program felt like the perfect fit.

Why were you interested in becoming a Wetzel Scholar?

I was interested in becoming a Wetzel Scholar because I wanted to deepen my involvement in MAOPS beyond chapter leadership and contribute more meaningfully to its mission. The program offered an opportunity to develop as a student leader, engage with peers across the organization, and make a lasting impact on advocacy and professional development initiatives.

To date, what have you enjoyed the most about your Wezel Scholar experience?

I’ve most enjoyed MOAC, which broadened my perspective through connections with peers and mentors, and contributing to the YPN podcast, where I had the opportunity to engage with leaders and share practical knowledge with fellow students.

What personal goals do you have that you believe the Scholar Program will help you achieve?

I hope to grow as a leader, strengthen my advocacy skills, and gain experiences that let me contribute meaningfully to my peers and the medical community.

Tell us about a couple personal influential relationships you have developed being a part of the Scholar Program and/or being engaged with MAOPS?

Some of the most influential relationships I’ve developed through the Scholar Program include Sammy DeLuca (OMS-IV, Wetzel Scholar Candidate), who has guided me, answered my questions, and inspired me to continue growing as a medical student, and Dr. Katie Davenport-Kabonic, MAOPS president, whose mentorship has helped me navigate chapter leadership and reinforced the value of student voices.

I’ve also been fortunate to learn from the MAOPS support staff, as well as Dr. Davis and Dr. Palmer, who have supported the KCOM chapter and provided invaluable guidance on engaging and encouraging students to get involved. Together, these relationships have been instrumental in my growth both personally and professionally.

What has surprised you the most about MAOPS since you have become involved?

What has surprised me most about MAOPS is how deeply the organization values student voices. From my involvement, I’ve seen firsthand how engaged the physicians, staff, and leadership are in listening to students, mentoring us, and providing meaningful opportunities to grow and contribute.

Tell us something surprising/interesting about you.

I played lacrosse in high school and college, and I’ve also coached and refereed, which has been a fun way to share my passion for the sport in Missouri.

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