Reconnect... with the Dual Degree Program

As a public medical school, the Heritage College has a unique obligation to foster research that will drive medical advances and empower future physicians for the benefit of our communities. While we often think of research as a faculty endeavor, there are many Heritage College students who are contributing to these efforts. One such student is Elizabeth Jensen. 

Elizabeth arrived at Ohio University as an undergraduate with an interest in cellular and molecular research, but after witnessing her grandmother's battle with dementia, she found herself gravitating toward patient care. Through the college’s Dual Degree Program, Elizabeth was able to pursue both callings. In May, she will graduate from Ohio University with two doctoral degrees, invaluable research experience as part of the Kopchick Laboratory team, and an impressive array of accolades -- including Ohio University’s 2020 Presidential Medal for Outstanding Research Demonstrated by a Doctoral Student and the Heritage College's nomination for the 2022 COSGP Student Researcher of the Year Award.

Click below to hear Elizabeth’s reflections on the Dual Degree Program.

To aspiring physicians who are passionate about medical research, Elizabeth says, "Don't be afraid." 

"I think a lot of people shy away from [the Dual Degree Program] just because of how long the journey is. Seven to eight years can seem like a long time, but in the span of a lifetime, it's really not that long. Sitting at the end of that journey, I would say it's flown by... and I have learned so much," she says.

I have no doubt that Elizabeth’s multi-dimensional experiences through the Dual Degree Program have equipped her to drive discovery and, ultimately, to improve patient care. Thank you for taking time to reconnect and learn about this impactful program through the eyes of a standout soon-to-be-graduate.