Rigorous curriculum, involved faculty key to medical school acceptance
Faculty include a pre-health professions advisor whose advice is instrumental in building strong medical school applications.
Edmund Wekunga's undergraduate experience shaped his professional and personal growth.
Volunteering to work with young cancer patients at a hospital near his home in Uganda confirmed 14-year-old Edmund Wekunga’s plans to become a doctor.
“The connections I made with the children and seeing their strength in the face of such a tough disease inspired me to pursue medicine. It was those heartfelt interactions that showed me the profound impact a doctor can have on someone's life,” he said.
Fast forward several years, and Wekunga moved to the United States to fulfill his dream. He enrolled at Penn State Abington and earned a bachelor’s degree in biology (vertebrate physiology option). His work at Abington and the impact of being a Schreyer Honors College Scholar prepared him for the rigors of medical school.
“The faculty at Penn State Abington were exceptionally supportive, and I often relied on engaging discussions with my colleagues to enhance my learning experience. My undergraduate journey at Abington was smooth and fulfilling,” Wekunga, who belonged to the Pre-Health Professions Organization on campus.
Several faculty and staff served as mentors to Wekunga including Chris Walters, senior coordinator for Student Success; Kevin Cannon, professor of chemistry; and Christine Krewson, associate teaching professor of chemistry.
“Each of them provided invaluable guidance in various capacities. Dr. Krewson played a pivotal role as the pre-health professions advisor. She highlighted numerous resources available to pre-med students such as the pre-health professions mock application, which was instrumental in helping me compile a strong medical school application,” he said.
Wekunga completed a master of science through the Drexel University Pathway to Medical School program, and he will soon begin medical school there with the goal of becoming an orthopedic surgeon. He encourages other students to ask for help when they need it.
“For those pursuing pre-med, remember that it is a marathon, not a sprint. It's easy to become burnt out and frustrated on this demanding path. Prioritize self-care and understand that there's no need to rush through the process. Taking your time can lead to a more fulfilling and sustainable journey,” he said.
