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Alumni share why they chose the Masters in Medical Science program at IU School of Medicine.

Why MSMS

Alumni share why they chose the Masters in Medical Science (MSMS) program at IU School of Medicine.

Darren Bost, Jr. | MD Candidate, 2023

The dedicated MCAT preparation in the summer before classes start was essential to increasing my MCAT score significantly. The rigorous graduate classes allowed me to show admission committees I could excel at higher-level education. After completing a year of the program, I approached my first year of medical school with confidence because I had already seen most of the material. I was also blessed to matriculate into IU School of Medicine with three classmates from my MSMS cohort who have been instrumental to my success in medical school. They have provided me friendship, support, and a sense of family that I otherwise would not have initially entering medical school. I am glad I did the MSMS program before entering medical school. I am genuinely grateful for the mentorship and opportunity this program provided.

Francis Nwaneri | MD Candidate, 2023

My time as an MSMS student was filled with support and encouragement from our program staff, mentors, and fellow students. The program provided me with the structure and resources I needed to gain entry and be successful in medical school. The resources, mentorship, and support I gained while in the program were integral to my success in medical school. My favorite part of this program was the lifelong friends I formed with people also going through the process.

portrait of rhea sharma

Rhea Sharma | MD Candidate, 2023

I chose MSMS for its accessibility to study resources. During my MSMS interview, I saw that it offered just that and much more. The program's office was friendly upon introduction and committed to facilitating a great study environment for the students, with snacks and food always available, mentorship and consulting within access, a jovial atmosphere filled with a positive spirit, and encouragement. I saw that I could foster my individual goals at the program, hone my skills, and ultimately work toward the next phase of my career. 

Jordan Finch | MD Candidate, 2024 

I chose the MSMS program because I knew that exposure to a curriculum and pace similar to medical school would provide me with the necessary study habits and foundational knowledge needed to succeed in medical school.

Shachia R. Jackson | MD Candidate, 2024

I initially chose the MSMS program to strengthen my science foundation before applying to medical school. I wanted to get accustomed to the change in workload and tune my study habits before jumping into the rigor of a doctoral program. When I came for my interview, the program directors and alumni's caring nature sealed the deal for me. It was apparent that they believed in my goals, success in the program, and ultimately, they were dedicated to aiding me on my journey to become a physician. Looking back on my experience, I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of the MSMS program. I have gained mentors, friends, education, and experiences that will follow me for a lifetime. Spending my time between obtaining my undergraduate degree and applying to medical school in the MSMS program was the best decision for my journey.

portrait of aonesti williams

Aonesti Williams | MD Candidate, 2024

I chose the MSMS program because it gave me a second chance. The MSMS program not only gave me a chance to repair my MCAT score, but it gave me hope that I was just as capable as the next person to be a successful physician.

Jai Horsey, MS | MD Candidate, 2025

Prior to MSMS, I didn’t really know what it took to become a medical student. The program offered MCAT prep, mentorship, and classes that emulated what I’d experience in my first year of med school. Because of my two years in MSMS, I know that I’m more equipped to be successful not only as a student but also as a future physician.

Sean Taylor | MD Candidate, 2025

MSMS is an incredible opportunity for prospective medical students to improve their credentials for medical school. The program offers a dedicated summer to full-time MCAT preparation, coursework taught by IU SOM staff, and diverse enrichment opportunities that increase exposure to various professionals in various fields. MSMS provided me with the necessary academic confidence needed to thrive in medical school. Most importantly, Dr. Bonds, Shai, and Val treat students like family and offer continued support personally and professionally far beyond the program. I give my highest regards for MSMS!

Sifon-Glory Benson | MD Candidate, 2026

As a non-traditional student, I have taken a long path to medicine. With every rejection letter from medical schools and post-baccalaureate programs came the decline in the self-confidence I once had in myself. Just when I was about to give up on the journey, MSMS took a chance on me. This opportunity was invaluable so I knew that I had to give it my maximum attention. The MSMS program was honest with me about the factors that were hindering me from getting into medical school and showed me how to fix them. The program also gave me a rare opportunity of early exposure to the medical school curriculum. At MSMS, I found a community of like minded people and I am blessed to have built a support system that has now become family. I graduated from MSMS as a more confident person, believing in my capabilities regardless of what any test score says.

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