University of North Texas 
Meet Elle Boehme-Leal, an outstanding UNT biology major and pre-med student who is also working on her minors in chemistry and music. Elle is participating in the 3+4 Pathway Program, an accelerated medical partnership between the University of North Texas and the UNT Health Science Center’s Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine (UNTHSC TCOM).
“I researched the program my freshman year and met with the Office of Health Professions
to help me plan my schedule and degree plan,” said Elle, who is in her third year
at UNT. “Participating in the 3+4 program includes a set timeline regarding courses.
I really appreciated having this structure and guidance, even though it is a heavy
course load of at least 15 credit hours per semester." 
Also a member of the UNT Honors College, Elle has received several awards and scholarships while working on her degree, including the C.J. Davidson Honors Scholarship, Honors College Student Leadership and Involvement Scholarship, and the Outstanding Math Lab Tutor Award for 2023-2024. She was recently accepted to medical school at TCOM after applying and interviewing over the past school year.
“I was eagerly anticipating hearing back from TCOM and received my acceptance email on a random Wednesday in February," she said. “I immediately called my loved ones. The whole day and following week, I was beyond proud and in shock about my acceptance!”
As part of the 3+4 program, Elle participated in a 10-day internship at the medical school.
“The internship provided me the opportunity to meet current medical students, Health Science Center professors and staff, and other medical professionals from around Texas,” she said. “I met so many kind and amazing students that were part of the Primary Care Pathway Program and Joint Admission Medical Program (JAMP). I also had the opportunity to shadow and create a poster over a literature review, which helped me develop my professional skills.”
While at UNT, Elle has also sought and gained research experience through opportunities such as Dr. Hughes’ SEA-PHAGES lab. Her findings from this experience were presented in an abstract and poster at the UNT’s Scholar’s Day and the 2023 Sea Symposium. She said that she owes much to the UNT professors and mentors who have guided her path, including Dr. Rebekah Purvis of UNT Physics.
“As the professor for my Physics with Calculus class, Dr. Purvis cultivated my love of learning,” she explained. “I was originally nervous to take my first physics class ever because I was unfamiliar with the field, but Dr. Purvis’ teaching style and effective use of real-world examples solidified my interest in STEM.”
On top of her academic responsibilities, Elle is currently the Public Relations Chair for American Red Cross and serving on the General Planning Committee for Active Minds, a mental health advocacy student organization. She previously served as vice president and secretary for the Asian Student Association, assisted the event coordinator team for the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers, and played piano in the Rawlins Orchestra.
“All of these student organizations have taught me the value of effective communication and patience,” said Elle. “I am beyond grateful for the leadership roles I’ve held in which I’ve facilitated conversation around Asian identity, coordinated CPR certifications, and highlighted the value of mental health. These experiences have shaped the student, leader, and individual that I am proud to be today.”