A Step in the Journey: How a Medical Science Degree Helped One Student Pursue His Dream

With graduation quickly approaching, Bryan Jackson stands at the threshold of achieving a significant milestone in his educational journey—a Master of Science in Medical Science (MSMS) degree from Baylor University’s Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences. 

Following the completion of his undergraduate degree in 2022 at Louisiana State University-Alexandria, Jackson applied to several veterinary schools hoping to follow his calling to work with and help animals into a career. 

“I had just graduated with my bachelor's degree in chemistry, and my goal was to get into veterinary school,” he said. “When I found out that I didn't get accepted, well, that was one of the most discouraging things that I've ever experienced in my life.” 

Discouraged but still hopeful to realize his dream, Jackson turned to his faith to find his next step. 

“I remember reminding myself to be strong in my faith and to be strong in the Lord,” he recalled. “I asked multiple times, ‘Where is it that you want me to go? What do I need to do to pursue what you called me to do?’ After all my prayers, Baylor was the first thing that the Lord put on my heart—that is when I knew what was next for me.” 

With Baylor in his sights, Jackson applied to the online MSMS program offered through the Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation. When he received his acceptance into the program, he felt that the Lord’s call had been answered. 

As Jackson reflects on how he grew as a student and as a person during his time in the MSMS program, he shares how he created genuine connections with faculty and classmates, even with the program’s online format. He says of all the professors he had the opportunity to learn from, one stood out above the rest—Clinical Assistant Professor Brent Dragoo, PhD. 

“The faculty really do an amazing job to make everything feel interactive, and they make you feel like you are truly a part of the Baylor family. They take time out of their day to help students understand content and keep them from feeling like they are drowning,” he recalled. “I had Dr. Dragoo for Cardiopulmonary Physiology, and throughout the course, he made sure that we knew the information necessary to succeed beyond graduation. Every quiz and assignment made me think and process things such as, ‘where is the blood coming from?’ I think the way that he helped us learn will help me in my future veterinary studies.” 

His future studies are closer than ever because Jackson was accepted into St. George's University in Grenada, West Indies. He will begin attending its School of Veterinary Medicine in August—one additional step toward realizing his called career. 

“Baylor’s MSMS program helped to prepare me for my next chapter. I was able to take challenging classes and truly learn the material—which I will likely see again throughout my semesters at St. George.” 

Jackson credits his journey to acceptance into veterinary school to Baylor’s MSMS degree, and it is a testament to his faith and dedication. Overcoming initial rejection, his accomplishment serves as an inspiration to students who are looking to further their education in medicine.