SUU Graduate Accepted at Prestigious Medical School
Posted: June 30, 2024 | Author: Southern Utah University | Read Time: 2 minutes
Alexa Lord, a 2023 Walter Maxwell Gibson College of Natural Sciences graduate, was recently admitted to a top-ten medical school at the prestigious Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine. She will begin her studies in the summer of 2026, after serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. With an acceptance rate of only 4.5%, this is truly an honor for Alexa and a testament to the quality of the pre-medical program at Southern Utah University.
As a biology major and chemistry minor, with a 4.0 cumulative GPA, Alexa was selected as the 2023 college valedictorian. However, her scientific success went beyond her coursework, as she also participated in an undergraduate research project investigating the kidney function of student-athletes.
“I had some incredible professors at SUU who truly cared about my success,” said Lord. “They challenged me and made learning exciting. Not only did I learn about science, but I gained important life skills and study habits from taking their classes. There were also many on-campus resources that really helped me while applying to med school.”
Following graduation with her bachelor’s degree in 2023, Alexa decided to remain on campus to pursue an MBA, with an emphasis in healthcare administration. This decision also allowed her to continue to pursue one of her other passions - basketball. Alexa was a member of the SUU Women’s Basketball team for five years, helping the team win their first conference tournament title and first NCAA tournament appearance during the 2022-23 season.
Also active in student government, Alexa served on the SUU Student Association senate as the 2023-24 athletics representative. She was the 2023 recipient of the R. Kenneth Benson Award, the most prestigious and distinguished award given to a student at SUU, in recognition of her academic excellence, outstanding leadership, and dedication to service at the University.
“From my conversations with her faculty over the years, it is easy to see that Alexa has left a lasting impression on the college and the entire institution,” said Dean of the College of Natural Sciences, Dr. Bill Heyborne. “I’m extremely proud of Alexa and congratulate her on this prestigious opportunity. I’m certain she will continue to make the college and the university very proud.”
SUU provides the curriculum, support, and guidance to ensure that students interested in pre-health science careers are well-positioned for acceptance into their chosen healthcare programs. Many graduates have gained admission to top schools after pursuing their chosen undergraduate degrees at SUU. The academic and faculty advisors work closely with students to chart the ideal academic program for their success. Learn more about pre-med at SUU.
