PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (Dec. 12, 2023) – Call it a collaboration of groundbreaking proportions. The Texas Undergraduate Medical Academy was established in 2004 and represents the partnership between Prairie View A&M University and Texas A&M Health Science Center School of Medicine. The prestigious program attracts students interested in careers as physicians, dentists, veterinarians, and pharmacists.

The UMA is one of the most respected and sought-after academic programs in the country and counts a cumulative graduation rate of 95%, a Biosafety Level 2 research laboratory, and a unique summer college preparatory initiative for high school students among its notable attributes.

Keeland Harville

However, one of the biggest reasons the program is considered a top-tier academic choice is its stellar students.

PVAMU Biology majors Jessica Henderson and Keeland Harville exemplify why Prairie View A&M’s UMA stands out from other undergraduate schools offering similar curriculums around the country.

Keeland and Jessica earned the honor and distinction of being named Mr. and Miss UMA at the University, and for good reason. Jessica, a senior biology major with minors in chemistry and psychology, sees her role as Miss UMA as a commitment to being a positive representation of the UMA. For her, this means being present and engaging, both academically and within the broader community.

Keeland, a sophomore biology major, believes he has a responsibility to represent African-American males both in the biology program and those aspiring to enter the medical field. He is adamant about demonstrating excellence (which is one of the major principles of the University) and showing that with dedication and determination, anyone can achieve their goals. For him, being in the PVAMU Undergraduate Medical Academy is a source of pride and a personal pursuit of his aspirations.

Jessica Henderson

Students who inquire about the UMA program often ask if they have to major in biology to apply to medical school. Not necessarily, however, for Keeland, it was the right fit. He chose biology, recognizing that while it’s not the only path to the pre-med track, it requires demanding preparation. “The way that this University sets it up, it’s very rigorous; a biology major is pretty hard, especially for these students shooting for these high GPAs,” he advises. Keeland adds that challenging coursework is essential if you stand any chance of surviving any pre-med program!

Jessica knew the decision had to align with her calling, which is to help people. She firmly believes her studies will enable her to fulfill that vocation. “I want to help people. I feel like I can do the most good in this world through biology and the medical field,” she says.

Jessica plans to use her skills to provide much-needed primary medical care in rural areas (like Prairie View, Texas) where access to health care is scarce.

The two students admit they had several schools to choose from, but something about Prairie View A&M just felt right. Jessica says her decision to attend PVAMU was based on more than just education. She grew up in an environment where she was in the minority, surrounded by Hispanic and white populations. She wanted to study among peers who looked like her, a feeling she knew she wouldn’t experience at a predominantly white institution. Additionally, her choice was a way to feel more connected to her family’s legacy, as many of her relatives had attended PVAMU.

Keeland points out that the University offers not only an undergraduate academy but also a structured honors program that aligns perfectly with his goal to provide care for the underserved in rural areas.

Dr. Dennis E. Daniels

Dr. Dennis E. Daniels, director of Prairie View A&M’s UMA, says the value and impact of the program are unmatched. “The Texas Undergraduate Medical Academy represents an investment of time, talent, and treasure. The students are contributing to the population of physicians, dentists, veterinarians, and pharmacists in the State of Texas and beyond. The graduation rate, retention rate, and admission rate to professional school continue to surpass the state and national figures.”

Jessica and Keeland understand the incredible potential that underscores the journey they’ve embarked on. Their parting advice to aspiring medical professionals is both powerful and personal.

Jessica encourages students to find their passion and pursue it, saying, “It doesn’t matter what anyone else says, or what they recommend, or how good or bad they talk about it; if it’s something you want to do, it’s your life, and you have to do it.”

Keeland understands that young black students need to be encouraged to follow their dreams and “know that there’s a seat at the table” for individuals who look like them. He proudly states that he is living proof of this and is determined to empower others to realize their potential.

Ultimately, Jessica is grateful that she and her fellow Panthers in the program experience a supportive, collaborative environment where everyone is committed to one another’s success and can come together to build a solid academic foundation and establish lifelong connections, friendships, and potential safety nets.

These outstanding students have a lot in common, but one thing that stands out is that both say choosing Prairie View A&M University is the best academic decision they’ve made.

Dr. Daniels sums up his sentiments about the UMA and these two exceptional students by quoting, quite appropriately, Ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle: “We are what we repeatedly do. Therefore, excellence among our students is not an act but a habit.”

The incredible students, faculty, and staff at The Texas Undergraduate Medical Academy at PVAMU ensure that the program exemplifies our mission: Excellence lives here.

By Liz Faublas-Wallace

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