Marcasia Jones accepted into the Mississippi Rural Physicians Program
A student with aspirations of becoming a doctor is on the path to reaching her goal with her acceptance into a Mississippi internship program for future medical students.
Marcasia Jones, a junior biology/pre-physical therapy major from Hickory, Mississippi, was accepted into the undergraduate portion of the Mississippi Rural Physicians Scholarship Program (MRSP).
Created in 2007, MRSP identifies college sophomores and juniors who demonstrate the commitment and academic achievement to become well-trained rural primary care physicians in Mississippi. The program offers undergraduate academic enrichment and clinical experience in a rural setting.
Once all medical school admissions requirements are completed, the student can use the scholarship at the University of Mississippi School of Medicine or William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine. While attending medical school, each MRSP scholar may receive $30,000 per year based on available funding.
Being accepted as an MRSP scholar is a dream come true for Jones.
“I heard about the program during my junior year of high school,” said Jones. “Looking back, I could only dream of being accepted. But now, my dream is a reality, and I feel elated and grateful to be a part of this program.”
Attending medical school will allow Jones to gain further knowledge to fulfill her passion for helping others achieve better health.
“The program will further equip me to serve my community and educate others about health and wellness. I look forward to learning from experienced medical professionals so that I can provide medical aid to my people. This opportunity will prepare me to serve my community and educate others about health and wellness.”
Trips to her pediatrician as a child sparked Jones’ initial interest in medicine. She credits the encouragement of her doctor for her commitment to chasing her dreams.
“I was inspired to pursue medicine by my childhood pediatrician. I loved visiting his office, and he always encouraged me to keep going further. As I got older, I saw the lack of physicians in rural areas and the lack of diversity in medicine. That’s when I decided to follow my passion.”
Several mentors have played a role in Jones’ development in her major. She credits them for the knowledge she plans to display in her upcoming internship.
“Alcorn has prepared me by providing great mentors. Students, teachers, and advisors have all played a role in helping me. The biology and chemistry departments host regular seminars with speakers in the medical field. Those speakers have given great advice as well as my departmental instructors. The pre-professional office and student support services have been a tremendous help.”
