Fifty-five members of the UNMC High School Alliance are among the students taking classes at UNMC.
The alliance students come from high schools around the Omaha area and take college-level classes at UNMC to prepare for health careers. Each month, UNMC Today will profile an alliance student to let us get to know more about these young learners.
Today we meet Jesus Perez, a junior at Omaha South High School.
How did you get involved in the UNMC High School Alliance?
Several of my peers and teachers directed my attention to the UNMC High School Alliance Program. The program offers rigorous courses that mimic the caliber of introductory medicinal courses. I went through the application process where I was required to submit an essay and a written application. I then progressed to a formal interview. I enjoy the professionalism and the competitive atmosphere within the program.
What sparked your interest in science?
At a very young age I was drawn into the sciences. I instinctively began pursuing growth in my knowledge of the sciences. My curiosity and intractability helped me develop an inquisitive mind and a very tactical means of solving problems.
What are your career aspirations?
I plan on becoming a cardiologist.
What has been the best part of your UNMC High School Alliance experience?
I really enjoyed working with the advanced microscopes. I was able to see an ultrastructual organism at very large scale. I am excited to start my journey within a program of large magnitude. The facilities are state of the art; it’s a privilege to be able to walk on campus. The overall experience is exciting, the professors, students, and facilities are top-notch.
Way to go Jesus!
Your Parents must be very Proud of you. As a former South High Student ( back in the day) , I am also Proud of you.
Thumbs up to Great Beginnings!!
Jesus, it is an honor to support your medical education through the Larry Skinner Memorial Scholarship and the class of '73 award. Larry was one of 6 students in my cadaver disection cubicle, but more than that we shared many beers. All of us who knew this outgoing and engaging, not to mention brilliant man were devistated at his early passing. That some good can come from that is encouraging. Contact me directly if you wish as we have many unlikely similarities in our backgrounds. Jeffery Snow, MD, FACS, FAAP, FAAP. Spokane WA