The path to practice medicine is not always the easiest, but for Northwest Early College High School senior Janelle Navarrette it is one worth traveling in order to better serve the children of Canutillo.
The aspiring pediatrician’s recent selection to be part of the inaugural cohort of MedFuture scholars - a program between Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso and the University of Texas at El Paso - has further paved the way for her to realize her dream.
“I have always been drawn to science and the field of medicine. I want to be a healthcare worker so I can give back to my community in Canutillo,” Navarrette said. “I have always thought that sciences and the concepts behind them will allow me to gain a greater understanding of how life works in order to help me become a better future doctor.”
MedFuture is designed to mentor students from the El Paso region who are committed to a career in medicine by offering experiences in health care settings, community service, professional development and biomedical research all aimed at strengthening their interests in health care professions and their candidacy for medical school.
“I am beyond grateful to be part of the inaugural group of scholars of MedFuture. I look forward to learning, growing, and giving from the experiences that I receive and from the knowledge that I gain,” Navarrette said.
“MedFuture will help me accomplish my goal in becoming a pediatrician by offering me beneficial experiences such as mentorship and preparation for medical school. The program will help me grow and flourish, as it helps me prepare for medical school to eventually become a healthcare professional.”
The program also provides MCAT preparation to help improve exam scores and make participants stronger candidates as they apply for medical school. In addition, all students who successfully complete the program are guaranteed an interview at the TTUHSC El Paso’s Foster School of Medicine.
Navarrette is confident that the academic rigor she experienced as a NWECHS student has well prepared her for college life and the demands of medical school. She said she is thankful for the experience and for all her teachers who have supported her through her high school journey and have helped her gain growth and independence.
“We are proud of Janelle for earning this opportunity to help her achieve her goal of becoming a doctor,” said NWECHS Principal Frank Clark. “It takes a lot of work and determination to achieve her goal but she is up for the challenge and this opportunity will provide her with the support and skills needed to stay on track.”