How has JAMP helped you strive to achieve your goal of becoming a doctor?

JAMP is far more than just pre-acceptance, which is what I originally thought. It has given me countless opportunities, lessons, and friends. To see the motivation and determination among my fellow JAMP students is beyond inspiring. After joining this program, I have no doubt that the future of medicine is in good hands. Each and every one of us come from a unique background - and with that comes a unique motivation for a career in medicine. The people I've met serve as a constant reminder that everyone has their own struggles, but more importantly they teach me that the barriers in life are more easily surpassed if you have a strong support group. It can be rough to stick to something as difficult as the pre-medical track in undergrad, but the experiences I've shared with my fellow JAMPers have made me a better applicant, person, and future physician. 

What advice would you like to offer current or future JAMP students?

Current JAMP students: Stay the course! You have been selected out of many applicants because the council has faith in you. It may seem difficult at every stage of the way: from the MCAT, to applications, to interviews, but remember that you are not alone. Team work really does make the dream work. Additionally, I would like to encourage you to take full advantage of all the opportunities this program has to offer. You get two guaranteed internships full of shadowing, medical-school-like classes, and interactions with esteemed faculty- so take advantage! They are there to help you, so ask every question and find every answer because I doubt any other group will give you such a wonderful opportunity.

Future JAMP students: As a Liberal Arts student, I am not the traditional pre-med, and yet I am still here. Do not be discouraged because you think the council is looking for science majors only - this is definitely not true. Additionally, do not be discouraged from applying if your grades are not perfect. If you ask me, the council is looking for humans - not robots. Being different or non-traditional is actually a good thing because it increases the program's diversity, your learning experience, and the learning experience of others. If you are truly passionate about medicine, you need not worry because the interviewers will see that. 

What aspect of JAMP has been most beneficial to you?

The guidance this program offers cannot be overstated. As a first generation college student, I had no idea about the application process, how to study for the MCAT, or even what courses I should be taking. JAMP faculty do an incredible job of assisting in this process, but they're also very supportive. The advisors, coordinators, and directors all really care about our success and work tirelessly to ensure we achieve our goals. Overall, this program has changed my life. When I applied as a sophomore, I was only expecting pre-acceptance. Today, I recognize it is much more than that and I am eternally grateful for the chance to participate in something so incredible.

 

Bio: My name is Keonnie Parrilla and I am a rising senior at the University of Texas at Austin. I was born in Guatemala city, and my mother and I immigrated to Houston, which I consider my hometown. I am majoring in Psychology / Liberal Arts Honors with a minor in both chemistry and biology. At school, I enjoy advocating for student rights, mentoring younger students, and exploring the nature throughout Austin. After medical school, I would like to specialize in either surgery or psychiatry, with the ultimate goal of making an impact on the health care disparities of the world.