By Ellie Ratliff, Sports Editor
Senior Abhi Rashiwala is currently wrapping up his medical school interviews, after being accepted into and going through the Joint Admission Medical Program. The Joint Admission Medical Program, or JAMP, is a unique organization that allows students who are passionate about medicine to make connections, gain experience through internships and acquire admission to one of nine medical schools here in Texas.
“You apply during the first semester of your sophomore year of college. It works as a match system. There are nine medical schools you interview at, and then you rank your preferences. The medical schools interview all the JAMP students and then rank their preferences as well,” Rashiwala said.
Rashiwala is a biology major, with a minor in biochemistry. Through JAMP, he has completed internships at many different medical centers, including Texas A&M in Temple and the Texas Medical Center in Houston. This helped to foster connections, which are important throughout this process.
“The most important part is the connections you build. You get to meet med school professors, JAMP coordinators at medical school and other JAMP students. It's very interesting, and it’s helpful to talk to someone who has been through the process. Having someone to talk through the pros and cons with helps,” Rashiwala said.
For Rashiwala, the decision to pursue a medical degree is personal.
“The reason I want to be a doctor is I’ve realized what an impact doctors have. There is a humanistic art of medicine, which really impacts the patients. The emotions are high, but at the end of the day, it's about helping the patients. They need guidance, but also need someone to show empathy and show that they care for them,” Rashiwala said.
This program is an awesome opportunity for students who are looking to practice medicine in Texas. JAMP’s structure looks to help both students, medical schools and hospitals and medical centers all around Texas.
“JAMP focuses on Texas residents’ special admission into medical schools. All of JAMP’s students end up staying in Texas, as the main focus is keeping doctors in Texas, since there is a huge need,” Rashiwala said.
Rashiwala is one of several Hardin-Simmons University students currently in the JAMP program. This program has aided him in many ways, as he is looking towards his next steps after graduation. He will find out which medical school he has been paired with on Sept. 27. He encourages those who are passionate about medicine and committed to medical school to consider JAMP.
“If you're committed to medicine, do it. You definitely won't regret it. Through the internships you'll meet some of the best people and professors,” Rashiwala said.
If you are considering medical school, JAMP is an awesome way to get connected, with many resources available to help students achieve their goals. If you have questions, Rashiwala would be happy to answer them via email at ar1605@hsutx.edu.