Krishna Memorial Scholarship Invests in University of Texas’ Future Physicians
By Hannah Wisterman

For two out of three U.S. allopathic medical students, matriculating can come with up to a $300,000 price tag, burdening future physicians with financial woes that can encroach on their education.  

But seven students at University of Texas (UT) System medical schools now have some relief from such strain with the $1,000 Krishna Memorial Scholarship, a one-time award given to second- through fourth-year medical students in the system based on ability, scholarship, and medical aptitude, plus financial need. This is the Krishna Memorial Scholarship’s fourth year being awarded, one of several scholarships available through the Texas Medical Association. 

“It is motivating to be chosen by TMA members for this award, as it is not just financial support but also a vote of confidence in my ability to make an impact as a physician,” said Jamie Walker, a second-year student at UT Tyler School of Medicine. 

For Shandis Fancher, a third-year student at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, the compassion given to her through the scholarship reflects the compassion she wishes to show to future patients. 

“My journey through medical school has been different than anticipated; after my first year of medical school, I became the primary caretaker for my 15-year-old sister, and the following year I was blessed with the birth of my firstborn son, Xavier,” she said. “Receiving this scholarship encourages me as it symbolizes that my school values the efforts I have made to balance my personal and professional growth, even when that has required adjustments to my curriculum timeline so I could prioritize the health and well-being of my family.” 

Also among the seven recipients of the Krishna Memorial Scholarship for 2024 are: 

  • Afeefah Khazi-Syed, a third-year student at UT Southwestern Medical School; 
  • Robert Weinberg, a third-year student at UT Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine; 
  • Paul Appleton, a fourth-year student at UT Health San Antonio Long School of Medicine; 
  • Adam Cardenas, a fourth-year student at UT at Austin Dell Medical School; and 
  • Sofia Piperno, a third-year student at UTMB John Sealy School of Medicine. 

For more information about scholarships and loans available through TMA, visit the Educational Loans and Scholarships webpage

Last Updated On

August 06, 2024

Originally Published On

August 06, 2024

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Hannah Wisterman

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Hannah Wisterman is an associate editor for Texas Medicine and Texas Medicine Today. She was born and raised in Houston and holds a journalism degree from Texas State University in San Marcos. She's spent most of her career in health journalism, especially in the areas of reproductive and public health. When she's not reporting, editing, or learning, you can find her exploring Austin or spending time with her partner, cat, and houseplants.

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