Medina McCowin, a fourth-year biology major and member of the John H. Martinson Honors Program, received her first medical school acceptance. Medina’s interest in medicine started at the young age of eight, when she promised to become an oncologist to cure cancer and remove the burdens her mother faced during breast cancer screening. When her Great Aunt was diagnosed with endometrial cancer a few years later, her promise solidified and shaped her holistic approach to provide equitable healthcare for all. 

Medina joyfully reflects on her experience receiving her first medical school acceptance:  

“I knew that the decisions would be sent out that day, so I kept myself occupied with a morning workout class and some light cleaning. I decided to check my email and saw the acceptance, and immediately started crying. There was a mix of overwhelming relief, validation, and gratitude, as a dream that I had wanted for the past thirteen years and spent thousands of hours studying, researching, volunteering, and working for had finally come true. It was almost a confirmation that I belong in the field of medicine.” 

As one of four children and a Navy brat, Medina learned the importance of resiliency and independence early in life. These values guided her time in the John H. Martinson Honors Program, where she engaged in academic environments that tackled challenges with curiosity and confidence. Taking the Leaders in Progress and Service Forum when applying to medical school allowed her to explore and develop solutions for complex problems, preparing her to engage in the medical school interview process and for the medical field’s dynamic environment centered on thoughtful discussion and analysis. 

Medina is excited to begin her journey post-grad through expanding her medical knowledge and exploring the intricacies of patient care. Going forward, she is guided by her passion for making her family proud and caring for her patients as people first and foremost. The John H. Martinson Honors Program wishes Medina luck as she finishes her time at Georgia Tech and pursues a career in medicine!