Lydia Patterson Institute is proud to celebrate junior student Renata Figueroa, who was selected from among 400 applicants in El Paso County to attend the free, two-week High School Medical Camp hosted this past summer by the Texas Tech Paul L. Foster School of Medicine. The program gave students an inside look at medical careers through hands-on learning and mentorship.
Renata joined students from across the region in experiencing what it means to pursue a future in medicine. Guided by doctors and staff, she participated in unique activities each day: dissecting a sheep heart, practicing sutures, making necklaces with her own DNA, applying casts, examining microorganisms under a microscope, and even learning how cavities are removed.
The camp also introduced students to different fields of medicine through engaging presentations and mentorship. Renata built valuable friendships and professional connections, while also gaining confidence and independence as she navigated daily transportation to the campus.
Reflecting on the experience, Renata shared:
“This camp gave me the motivation to move forward to become a doctor in the future, and made me believe that we can reach anything that we pursue without limits.”
Yolanda Betancourt, from the Office of Admissions at the Texas Tech Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, added:
“At the Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, we work hard to reach out to El Paso students and guide them on their pathway to medical school. It was a joy to mentor Renata during the summer camp, and we are proud she was chosen from among 400 applicants in El Paso County. Many of our students begin their journey by connecting with Texas Tech early, learning about resources that will prepare them to become competitive medical school applicants. We look forward to visiting Lydia Patterson Institute on September 26 to speak with students about what it takes to pursue this dream.”
At LPI, we are proud of students like Renata who embrace opportunities to grow, discover their calling, and prepare for lives of leadership and service.