How has JAMP helped you strive to achieve your goal of becoming a doctor?
The JAMP program has helped me in so many ways and has truly been a blessing in my life. Being a first-generation college student has always been a challenge for me, especially being one that wanted to go to medical school. With the resources and guidance that were provided to me by this program, the path to becoming a doctor became much more attainable, and for that I will forever be grateful.

What advice would you like to offer current or future JAMP students?
I think my best advice to other JAMP students would be to find something outside of school that you are passionate about, and stick to it. It’s easy to get lost in the stress of school, working, the MCAT, or other life obligations, but you should absolutely take time for yourself every now and again! It’s really important to take a step back and remind yourself why you chose to go down this path.

What aspect of JAMP has been most beneficial to you?
I think the part of JAMP that has been the most beneficial to me would have to be the friendships I have made through it and the two summer internships I participated in. The challenges of life are heightened with the extra stress of taking the MCAT and trying to get into medical school, but it isn’t so bad when you have people by your side that understand what you are going through. From understanding my science jokes/references to being there for me when I feel down or discouraged, I have truly met some of the best friends I could ask for through my two summer internships.

The internships also reassured me that going into medicine was the right choice for me by giving me the opportunity to experience things that not many undergraduate students get the chance to do. The internships taught me how to work closely with those around me towards a common goal, and I think that is such a vital part of medicine today. Getting to spend five weeks at two medical schools in Texas is an amazing experience that really motivates and reassures you to continue down the path of becoming a physician. The relationships I made through my summer internships have been some of the most beneficial and memorable parts of this journey.

About Saleena
As a first-generation college student and first person in my family to attempt to go down the road of medicine, I had absolutely no idea where to start when it came to my dream of becoming a physician. I grew up in Hawley, TX and currently attend Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, TX. After learning about JAMP through joining the Pre-Health Club at my university, I was eager to apply and become a part of this amazing program. 

JAMP really provided me with a great path to reach my goal of becoming a physician. The program gave me a great timeline, a preview into what medical school will be like, MCAT prep resources, mentorship, friendships, and many other tools to help reach my dreams. Having the opportunities that were provided to me through this program has truly been a blessing. I couldn’t be more thankful for this program and what it has done to help me achieve my dreams of becoming a doctor.