Jared Adkins ’18

Exercise Science

Biography

I grew up on the south side of Indianapolis in Whiteland. I then attended Taylor University and played on the baseball team for Coach Gould from 2014-2018. During my time at Taylor, I majored in Exercise Science Pre-Med and absolutely loved my classes, getting to know my professors, and classmates. I graduated in 2018 and decided to take two gap years working as both an EMT-B and a medical scribe while I took my MCAT before applying to medical schools. I am currently a 3rd year medical student at Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine. My future goals include trying to improve primary care medicine and leaving an impact on every patient I interact with.

What were some of your most valuable experiences at Taylor?

My most valuable experiences included playing baseball, performing research with Dr. Hayes in the exercise science department, working with a team of students to create a presentation regarding the diabetes prevention program and how it might be a good fit at Taylor, and working as a peer tutor and mentor for the academic center.

How did your classes or interactions with professors at Taylor impact your growth?

Life is all about relationships and the connections I made with the exercise science department professors were some of the most meaningful relationships I had during my time at Taylor. In fact, I invited two professors to my wedding and frequently watched their dogs when they were out of town. Having mentors like Dr. Hayes and Dr. Renfrow helped me grow not only academically, but also in my spiritual walk with Christ. I am so thankful for the time they spent with me during my tenure at TU.

How can Taylor graduates use their unique Taylor education and its liberal arts foundational core as an asset in your discipline?

I was meeting with my medical school advisor and she saw that I went to Taylor, and the first comment she made was that she knew I was going to do well in medical school because Taylor students have always done well in their program. She specifically mentioned Taylor's liberal arts emphasis that helps students succeed in their medical school.

What advice or encouragement could you provide for Taylor students in your vocational discipline?

As far as getting into medical school goes, my advice for Taylor students would be to pursue experiences that they are passionate about and want to do regardless of whether they think it would look good on a resume. Admissions committees want to talk about the things you are passionate about and love to do, regardless of what that is. Also, take the time to develop a meaningful relationship with at least one professor or faculty member at Taylor. They are full of wisdom and can help you navigate difficult decisions in your life. Lastly, read the book Mindset by Carol Dweck and reflect on how you can apply the principles in your life.