In October 2023, Fairmont State University partnered with the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM) in Lewisburg to launch the Pre-Osteopathic Medicine Program (POMP). The program guarantees Fairmont State students who meet all the requirements are accepted into WVSOM, creating a direct and seamless pathway to medical school.
Recently, two Fairmont State students — Emma Christie of Berkeley Springs and Olivia Lowther of Clarksburg — were accepted into POMP and will continue their education at WVSOM to become osteopathic physicians.
Christie, a biology and psychology major, said the program made the process of getting into medical school much more streamlined, providing a huge relief and eliminating many stressors.
“The process of applying to medical school is really tedious as a whole,” said Christie. “It really just helped me focus on my classes and education rather than a bunch of other items to get accepted.”
Christie didn’t always plan on medical school and shared that she never felt like she “belonged in STEM,” but with encouragement from instructors at Fairmont State, she found her place and developed the skills necessary to succeed.
“Dr. [Jamie] Miller has been great at making me feel comfortable, and she makes me feel like I can do it and I do belong there,” Christie added. “I am really grateful that this program exists. For most medical schools, there isn’t a pipeline program like this, so the fact that it exists and we have this partnership has been really helpful to me.”
Lowther, an exercise science major, echoed how helpful the program has been when it comes to applying for medical school.
“The path to medical school can be confusing and tricky, and this program gave me a guide on what I need to do to stay on track and complete everything that I need to,” said Lowther. “It ensures I am getting practical experience in addition to academic experience.”
Lowther also felt supported by her instructors throughout the process and encouraged others to seek out programs like POMP.
“All of my science professors have helped me be prepared and have helped set me up so that I am ready to go on to medical school,” Lowther added. “Any time there’s a program like this, people should be on the lookout and apply because it can really help you out in the future.”
Fairmont State University extends congratulations to both students on this achievement. Their success reflects the strength of the POMP partnership and the dedication of faculty who guide students toward their goals.
To learn more about the POMP, visit wvsom.edu/admissions/do/pomp. To learn more about admission to Fairmont State University, visit fairmontstate.edu/apply.
