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Rising Nevada High junior Collins nominated for Conference of Future Medical Leaders
Nevada High School junior Jerica Collins has been named a delegate to The Congress of Future Medical Leaders, with the event slated for November.
According to a press release, The Congress is an honors-only program for high school students aspiring to enter into the medical field, or become physicians. "The purpose of this event is to honor, inspire, motivate and direct the top students in the country interested in these careers, to stay true to their dream and, after the event, to provide a path, plan and resources to help them reach their goal," the press release read.
Collins' nomination was signed by Dr. Mario Capecchi — Nobel Prize winner in Medicine, and the Science Director of the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists. Collins, the press release stated, is set to represent Nevada High based on her overall academic achievement, leadership potential, as well as her determination to serve humanity in the field of medicine.
"During the three-day Congress, Jerica will join students from across the country and hear Nobel Laureates and National Medal of Science Winners talk about leading medical research; be given advice from Ivy League and top medical school deans on what to expect in medical school; witness stories told by patients who are living medical miracles; be inspired by fellow teen medical science prodigies; and learn about cutting-edge advances and the future in medicine and medical technology," the release read.
The Daily Mail recently spoke with Collins about the honor.
"In all honesty, this recognition came as a shock to me, because I haven't really told many people what I aspire to do after high school," she said. "I've always just said, 'something medical, and/or, with kids.' So when I found out I was nominated, I felt so proud and honored. To me, it means that my hard work in academics are paying off, and I'm another step closer to my dreams."
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the conference was moved from being held at Harvard, to online. Collins expressed some disappointment in not be able to visit the Harvard campus, but said she still plans on making the most of it.
"I feel that I can still soak up as much information as if I were there in person," she said. "Medical information of any type has always fascinated me, and I'm really excited. I hope to gain more knowledge of the medical specialties I'm interested in, as well as finding out information on new topics, to help further guide me in my career choices."
Added Collins: "Harvard is such a prestigious school, and never in a million years did I think I'd come home to a letter offering for me to be a part of the Future Medical Leaders Conference."
Collins says she plans to graduate high school with her associate's degree already in tow, as well as obtain her CNA certification.
"That will help me get a jump start, and be further along than others that have the same plans as I do," Collins explained. "Realistically, my college plans are to apply for scholarships and use my A-plus hours at Pitt State University — where my mom graduated from, to study pre-med. From there, I was thinking about applying to KU's medical program, or just finding what school best suites me, and my career path. I have always loved the idea of attending Stanford, or the University of San Francisco in California."
At Nevada High, Collins is a four-sport athlete, competing in softball, basketball. track-and-field (javelin), and powerlifting. Collins' other school-related extra-curricular activities include Nevada Regional Technical Center's DECA business program. Collins noted her favorite high school class is Civics.
"That may come as a shock to many, but I truly do have a love for history," she said. "I just think it's so cool, and Mr. Miller is such a fun teacher. Now, it may change as we get further into the year, and get into the groove of things in other classes."
Collins further elaborated on her favorite classes: "Although, I'm not taking any of her classes this year, A.J. Pitts (science) is one of my absolute favorite teachers I've ever had. She teaches us well, and goes above-and-beyond the topic to answer all of our questions. She is always there for her students, and is willing to help them in any way she can. I appreciate her for that. I also have a great appreciation for Wes Beachler (weights). He commits so much of his time to students, coaching us in weights, as well as the football team. He's passionate about his students. Coach never fails to make us laugh, or put a smile on our face — push us to our farthest potential, and help us believe in ourselves."
"This is a crucial time in America when we need more doctors and medical scientists who are even better prepared for a future that is changing exponentially," read the release. "Focused, bright and determined students like Jerica Collins are our future and she deserves all the mentoring and guidance we can give her. The National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists was founded on the belief that we must identify prospective medical talent at the earliest possible age and help these students acquire the necessary experience and skills to take them to the doorstep of this vital career."