ElevateMeD Scholar: Jessica Norman

Meet Jessica Norman

ElevateMeD Scholar 2025-26

Jessica Norman reflects on the driving motivator that led her to medicine, shedding light on essential characteristics that every doctor needs—listening skills and empathy. During Jessica’s upbringing, she experienced a health condition that was often dismissed. Inspired by the physician who provided her with holistic care, Jessica plans to provide education and empathy to her patients.

• Hometown: Hazel Crest, Illinois

• Medical Education: University of Illinois College of Medicine

• Undergraduate Education: The University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign in Interdisciplinary Health

• Current Career Plan: I plan to remain adaptable while staying rooted in my commitment to providing equitable healthcare. I strive to pursue a career where I can advocate for underserved communities, especially Black and Brown patients, while continuing to grow as a thoughtful, compassionate leader and learner. Along the way, I’ll continue to advocate for diversifying medicine and creating more inclusive spaces in healthcare. As my path evolves, I hope to integrate my passions for dermatology, women’s health, and advocacy into a career that brings both medical excellence and cultural humility to every patient interaction.

• Specialty Interest: Dermatology

• I am most proud of never giving up on my dream to become a physician, even when faced with financial hardship, self-doubt, and systemic barriers. I’ve relied on the resilience instilled in me by my family and my faith to guide me through challenging times, trusting that my purpose is greater than the obstacles in front of me. I am so proud of how I’ve grown into a leader and advocate, standing up for those who need it most. My journey has not been easy, but it has been meaningful, and it has shaped the person I am today.

• You might be surprised to know that I worked as a medical assistant and saved for two years prior to entering medical school. Balancing work made it challenging to find dedicated study time, and as a result, I took the MCAT three times. On my third attempt, I was finally able to take a month off to fully focus on studying, which led to my acceptance into the Urban Health Program’s Post-Baccalaureate Program at UICOM. There, I completed intensive coursework that prepared me for a smooth transition into medical school. I share this to show that despite obstacles, faith and perseverance can pave the way forward. I often reflect on that period with gratitude and wish I could tell my younger self that her strength, sacrifice, and determination would one day open the door to her dreams.

• ElevateMeD is… a transformative opportunity that goes beyond a scholarship—it’s an investment in the future of medicine. It empowers students like me by uplifting those who reflect the communities we aim to serve and encouraging us to lead with authenticity, resilience, and purpose. I am honored to be part of this mission and excited to grow alongside a network of leaders who are reshaping the face of medicine. I aspire to impact future physicians the way ElevateMeD has so deeply impacted me.