Jenna Eubanks Gray
SENIOR SPOTLIGHT
Jenna Eubanks Gray, Class of 2023
Hometown: Holton, Kansas
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with Honors, Pre-Med emphasis
Biochemistry senior Jenna Eubanks Gray has dreamed of becoming a doctor since childhood. Now, she is one step closer to that dream as she graduates from OBU with a fulfilled sense of knowledge, experience, confidence and faith.
Jenna chose to attend OBU after learning that OBU graduates have a very high acceptance rate when applying to medical school. She also wanted to attend a university that taught science from a Christian perspective.
“When I came to OBU on a college visit and talked with professors in STEM and in the Honors programs, I was so impressed. The campus was beautiful, and in addition to that, I was offered a substantial scholarship package. With all those variables, I had no doubt in my mind that OBU was the place for me,” she explained.
During her cumulative years as a biochemistry pre-med student, Jenna has discovered a new interest in research along with her desire to be a physician. Now, as she graduates and takes the next step, she hopes to continue pursuing her interest in medical research in addition to her Doctor of Medicine.
Currently, Jenna is completing her honors thesis by conducting actual hands-on scientific lab research and experiments related to the disease of lupus. She is specifically studying one gene's contribution to the initiation of systemic lupus erythematosus. It is a careful and meticulous assignment that is deepening her knowledge and expanding her reasoning and critical thinking skills.
One highlight of Jenna’s time at OBU has been serving as the science coordinator inside the university’s Milburn Success Center. It is a role she began this year after serving as a student mentor for two years. Jenna’s job is to coordinate student mentors with those students seeking academic support. She schedules study sessions and plays a key role in communicating with the professors regarding science curriculum, syllabi and test materials.
“My time in the Milburn Center has allowed me to grow in my leadership abilities, communication skills and outreach to others. It is so rewarding to see a student light up with a spark of understanding. Because of these experiences, I have personally gained confidence in my ability to serve and assist others,“ she commented.
Another highlight for Jenna is her own mentoring relationship with Dr. Contessa Edgar, OBU chair of the Division of Science and associate professor of biology. “Dr. Edgar is my hero,” she laughed. “From my very first class as a freshman in Cornerstone of Science, Dr. Edgar has been so encouraging, supportive and effective as a professor. She has opened doors for me to grow academically and personally by caring about me as a person and as a student.”
“For three years I have had the privilege of serving as Dr. Edgar’s teaching assistant in the OBU cadaver lab. It is such an honor for OBU to have this type of learning environment and to receive the incredible hands-on experience there. As the teaching assistant, I have been given many opportunities to explore, grow and expand my abilities through her influence,” Jenna said.
“Along my OBU journey, my faith has truly grown as I’ve deepened my study of science. Nothing proves God more than science“ Jenna explained. “Intricate principles such as those found in developmental biology clarify to me the reality of a living God. I find it difficult to be a scientist and not see God.”
“OBU’s Honors curriculum, coupled with my Christian academic core classes, has reinforced my faith also,” she added. “The Honors program has caused me to expand my thinking. It has also transformed my ability and desire to write. I am displaying much more creativity and expression in my work.”
With graduation soon approaching, Jenna reflects on her childhood dream. “Medical school is a long road. And I ask myself, ‘Do I really want to do this?’ And the answer quickly comes to mind confirming ‘yes, I want to be a doctor.’ ”
“With the knowledge and equipping I have received at OBU, I am confident that I want to spend the rest of my life medically treating others. Simply put, I can’t see myself doing any other job but that,” she said.