LETU Sophomore Guaranteed Medical School Acceptance

Acceptance into medical school can be a worrisome experience for students hoping to become physicians; competition is fierce and getting the grades to qualify is no easy feat. But LETU student Keren Engulu doesn't have to worry about getting into medical school. This sophomore is already in.

Keren is one of very few college students in Texas to have guaranteed acceptance into medical school. The biology major was chosen for the Joint Admissions Medical Program (JAMP), which offers only 100 spots in the state to highly-qualified college students studying biology, chemistry, math or physics. JAMP provides students paid summer internships, free MCAT preparation courses, and guaranteed acceptance to one of Texas' nine medical schools.

While JAMP holds a high GPA as a crucial factor for entering the program, they also consider "personal factors such as motivation, maturity, integrity, interpersonal communication, service to others and a demonstrated commitment to study medicine." 

Read below to hear from Keren about her path toward JAMP acceptance and future plans as a physician. 

Keren Engulu

How did LETU prepare you for acceptance into JAMP?

LeTourneau has a distinct incorporation of Christ in its curriculum. It is very obvious that our school holds members of the body of Christ; professors speak of God in their classes and students show their love for the Lord through kindness for others and selflessly building community. How can one not learn and feel encouraged to do their best in this environment? I am at LeTourneau to learn and gain a strong foundation for whatever God has for me. For this reason, I feel I am prepared for the rigorous work JAMP will require of me as I prepare for medical school. I know God will be with me every step of the way.

Why did you choose to study biology?

Originally, I chose to major in chemistry with a biological concentration. After a reflection of the classes I would have to take, I chose to switch my major to biology. I enjoyed studying chemistry, but some of the courses required to graduate were not topics that I personally enjoyed studying. The courses I will take for my major in biology are much more suited to my interests and will prepare me for medical school.

Why did you choose LETU?

Two weeks before my high school graduation, I came to visit LeTourneau. Students had gone home for the summer, but my tour guide, Ally, made me feel like I was already part of the LeTourneau family, along with other staff and students who were still on campus. The Christian environment was so authentic.

What are your career plans? 

I want to become a physician and a medical missionary. With JAMP, I have been gifted with the opportunity to make these dreams of mine a reality. Though I am not entirely sure what specialty I will go into, I know I want to work with children and help those who are in most need. I am willing to do whatever God has for me and go wherever He calls me. The future is such a mystery to me, but I know God is already there. 

Interested in studying biology like Keren? Click here.