When Angelica Rodriguez was recognized as part of the Scholars in Urban Health program at The University of Kansas School of Medicine, she felt many emotions.
“I was so happy, I was excited and I was shocked,” she said. “I, along with other students in Kansas, applied to be part of this program and to be one of the nine students selected was something I worked so hard for.”
The Scholars in Urban Health program recruits students from urban areas of Kansas who are committed to improving the health challenges faced by their communities. The program, which exposes students to a variety of health care services in urban areas, provides assured admission to the University of Kansas School of Medicine upon successful completion of program requirements and graduation from an undergraduate institution.
Rodriguez is currently a biology major with a pre-medicine concentration at Newman University and plans to continue her studies at KU Med in fall 2025.
What excites her most about the next step of her educational journey is the chance to “go out into the world and transform society with the knowledge and experiences I have gained at Newman University,” Rodriguez said. “I am most excited to be able to make a difference in my community, especially for the underserved community in Wichita.”
In addition, Rodriguez has volunteered at the JayDoc Clinic, which is a student-run medical clinic that serves those who face healthcare obstacles.
“By volunteering, I have been reassured that this is what I desire to do in the future as a physician,” Rodriguez said.
For Rodriguez, Newman has been a big blessing. On campus, she’s involved with the Newman University Medical Profession Club, is a student ambassador and is part of the Honors Program.
“There is no doubt that I chose the right place to further my education,” Rodriguez said. “I have nothing but good things to say about my classes and my professors. All of my professors have been willing to help me in whatever way in order to help me succeed in their course, whether that is by meeting with me individually, staying after class or communicating my concerns via email and responding as quickly as possible. I have no doubt that my professors will do whatever it takes for their students to succeed and that is something I appreciate so much.”
Rodriguez said that her mentors at Newman include Associate Professor of Chemistry Alan Oberley, Professor of History and Director of the Honors Program Kelly McFall, Assistant Professor of Biology Tomoko Bell and Assistant Dean for Arts and Sciences Audrey Hane.
For more information on how you can help students like Angelica through your estate planning, please contact University Advancement at 316-942-4291 Ext 2163 or advancement@newmanu.edu.
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