A STUDENT of the University of Santo Tomas topped this year’s search for outstanding student-doctor of the National Capital Region-Southern Luzon cluster.

The award was conferred by the Association of Philippine Medical Colleges and the National Conventions Board on Robert Dominic Gonzales, also the interim president of the UST-Central Student Council.

APMC said the award aims to acknowledge the efforts of exemplary medical students from each region who went far and beyond themselves in their academic and leadership direction and long-term socio-civic engagement commitment.

The criteria for judging were 30% Academics, 30% Leadership, 30% Social Responsibility, and 30% Self-Analysis Essay.

“With the regional victory, Gonzales will now join fellow medical students for the national-level search,” APMC said.

Gonzales dedicated the award to his fellow Thomasians and student-leaders.

“Thank you for helping me live to a version of myself who aims to be selfless, brave, and strong amidst all the challenges that we face every day,” he said.

Gonzales is a graduate of the university’s Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy program. In 2020, he represented the student body in facilitating the transition to the Enriched Virtual Mode of Instruction, which was prompted by the pandemic.