This spring, students across Texas had the opportunity to step directly into the world of health professions admissions, meeting face-to-face with the teams behind the application process, asking questions, and exploring what it takes to apply.
Through the Spring Swing series of pre-health professions fairs, teams from TMDSAS
and JAMP traveled to campuses across the state, connecting with students at every
stage of their journey—from those just beginning to explore careers in healthcare
to seniors preparing to submit their applications this cycle.
From Central Texas to the Dallas–Fort Worth region, the Spring Swing visits created space for real-time face-to-face conversations, something students don’t always get when navigating the application process online.
The Central Swing, held in mid-February, included stops at Baylor University, University of Houston, Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, Texas State University, and University of Texas at San Antonio.
More recently, the Dallas–Fort Worth Swing brought the team to campuses including University of Texas at Arlington, Texas Christian University, Texas Woman’s University, University of North Texas, Austin College, and University of Texas at Dallas—where more than 150 students engaged directly with TMDSAS and JAMP representatives.
At each stop, students were able to ask questions, get clarity on application requirements, learn
about application resources, and better understand how to prepare for a competitive
cycle.
What stood out across campuses wasn’t just attendance. It was engagement.
Students came prepared with thoughtful questions about timelines, coursework, activities, and what makes an application stand out. Some were encountering TMDSAS for the first time, while others were already refining their strategy for the upcoming cycle.
The fairs also offered something especially valuable: the chance to interact with application resources in real time.
Students explored the TMDSAS website, walked through the application guide, and previewed video resources from the TMDSAS YouTube channel, all with the opportunity to ask questions as they navigated.
This kind of hands-on exposure helps move the process from abstract to actionable,
giving students a clearer sense of what they can do now to prepare. 
Beyond the information itself, the fairs created a different kind of access.
For many students, speaking directly with TMDSAS and JAMP representatives helped demystify the application process. Conversations that might feel intimidating online became more approachable in person, creating space for honest questions and clearer answers.
That connection can make a difference, especially for students who may not always
know where to start or what resources are available to them.
At several stops, JAMP was represented not only by staff, but by students who shared their own experiences with the program.
JAMP is a state-supported, statewide program designed to identify and support talented
Texas students who demonstrate both the academic potential and commitment to pursue
a career in medicine, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Early engagement opportunities like these pre-health fairs play a pivotal role in that pathway. By connecting students with accurate information and program representatives in real time, the events help reduce uncertainty and make the process more approachable.
Peer-to-peer conversations added a valuable layer to the experience. Prospective applicants had the opportunity to hear directly from current JAMP Scholars actively navigating the program, including those who recently matched to a Texas JAMP medical school. These scholars volunteered their time to support the events, driven by a shared commitment to ensure other students do not miss the life-changing opportunity JAMP can offer.
Their perspectives brought the process into clearer focus, highlighting the impact of structured support, mentorship, and early preparation.
With the Entry Year 2027 JAMP application opening May 1, the timing of these visits ensured students received early, direct awareness, along with the context needed to take the next step.
For many students, that combination of engagement and authentic insight can make a
difference, turning initial interest into a clearer, supported path forward into the
health professions.
By the end of each visit, one thing was clear: students across Texas are actively seeking information, guidance, and clarity as they prepare for careers in healthcare.
The Spring Swing fairs met that moment, bringing the application process directly to students, answering questions in real time, and helping them take the next step with greater confidence.
While these weeks left the teams with a full schedule behind them, it also reinforced
something central to the work: when students have access to clear information and
meaningful connection, they are better positioned to navigate the path ahead.
Students don’t have to wait for the next in-person event to get started. A range of
official resources are available to help you prepare for the application cycle:
| TMDSAS Website |
| Learn about the application process, participating schools, and key deadlines |
| TMDSAS Application Guide |
| Step-by-step instructions for completing your application |
| TXHES YouTube Channel |
| Workshop videos covering the application process, program insights, office hours,
Q&A sessions, and more |
| JAMP Program Information |
| Explore eligibility, benefits, and how to apply |
Whether you’re just beginning to explore your path or getting ready to apply this
cycle, these resources are designed to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
About the author: The Joint Admission Medical Program (JAMP) is a special program created by the Texas Legislature to support and encourage highly qualified, economically disadvantaged Texas resident students pursuing a medical education.
About the author: The Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service (TMDSAS) is the centralized application processing service for applicants to the first-year entering classes at all of the public medical, dental, and veterinary schools in the State of Texas.
Early application data from TMDSAS and JAMP for EY 2027 shows continued growth in student engagement, application submissions, and participation across Texas healthcare education pathways.
TXHES is pleased to welcome Victoria Moe as Deputy Executive Director, adding a seasoned higher education and workforce development leader to the organization's executive team.
As part of a broader UT System initiative, JAMP is utilizing Canvas to enhance scholar engagement, centralize resources, strengthen communication, and create a more connected experience for students and program partners across Texas.
