My daughter grew up loving Science Fairs, Science Camps and Bill Nye The Science Guy. She chose to attend a Health Magnet High School to solidify her interest in science and possibly medicine.
She was lucky to have inspiring teachers and the opportunity to begin shadowing at 16 years of age. Her descriptions of open-heart surgeries and a baby being born made her face light up, she knew that she would commit to medicine!
Her high school was on the border of Mexico, across from the County Hospital and in an underserved neighborhood. She saw how difficult it was for students to get basic needs (phone, internet, physicals for sports, care for their siblings/grandparents, etc). It gave her an appreciation for the ease with which she grew up and the drive to make changes to healthcare.
She continued with a focus on the sciences (adding Math) in college and, again, had some of the most inspiring professors, a research mentor and a Health Professionals Recommendation Committee (HPRC) at her school to guide her.
She graduated with a Chemistry Degree and a Math minor. She was able to study abroad, join a sorority, work jobs on campus and be a leader in on campus health organizations.
She is a current MS2 at UTSW and is following in a path set by her father, her uncle and grandfather (she has his original “Gray’s Anatomy” from the 1950’s).
About the author: The Parents of TX Pre-Meds is a group of parents with college students who dream of becoming doctor in the TX system. Our purpose is to help each other by sharing valuable insight for other parents through the process of reaching their medical school dreams. www.facebook.com/groups/txpremedparents
On September 8, 2026, the Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service (TMDSAS) launched the 2026 Accepted Applicant Experience Survey, inviting accepted applicants to provide feedback regarding their experiences from application to admission.
JAMP is entering a new chapter of leadership while staying true to its mission of creating opportunities for talented Texas students pursuing medicine. This year’s Council transition celebrates longtime leaders, welcomes new voices, and brings the story full circle as a former JAMP Scholar steps into the role of Chair-Elect.
JAMP is expanding its support for scholars with two new initiatives designed to meet needs both inside and outside the classroom. An emergency fund will help scholars facing unexpected financial challenges, while new research funding will create more opportunities for students to explore their interests, gain experience, and prepare for their future in medicine.
