Q&A with Kyle Summers, Baylor MSMS Alumnus

Kyle graduated from the Baylor University Master of Science in Medical Science (MSMS) program in December 2024 and is currently attending medical school.

Why did you choose to pursue the MSMS program at Baylor?

I chose to attend the MSMS program to strengthen my academic background for my medical school application. I specifically chose the MSMS program at Baylor University because it gave me the opportunity to earn my degree while attending classes online, which was incredibly important for me as as student who was still working full time. When I was researching the curriculum, I really appreciated how this program tailored its classes to those taken by a first year medical student.

Please share one of the highlights of your experience in the MSMS program.

Every week, our MSMS faculty were extremely welcoming to students during our online synchronous sessions. You could really tell that each faculty member was dedicated to our success both in the program as well as in terms of our long term education goals. I also really enjoyed learning from our clinical adjunct instructors who helped put the material into a different context through a more clinical perspective.

What is one way that your Baylor MSMS education prepared you for your next step?

The MSMS program helped build a strong foundation of knowledge that made my transition to medical school not only possible, but also much easier. Many of the topics I learned in this program were things that I saw again in my first year of school, and this has given me a huge advantage in being able to synthesize the large amount of material medical students are expected to learn quickly. Not only did it prepare me for what to study, but also helped me learn how to study more effectively.

What would you say to a prospective student considering the Baylor MSMS degree program?

The MSMS degree program is an incredible investment in yourself and your educational goals. All of the faculty members are incredibly supportive, and despite being 100% online, it still feels like a very close-knit learning community. I'm confident the time you dedicate to attending this program will more than set you up for success in your future studies!

What did it look like to build community and engage with your fellow students in this online program?

Actively participating in the weekly synchronous sessions is a great way to connect with fellow students and faculty. There are many times during these sessions where you get to learn from your classmates as well as share your own experiences and perspective as they relate to the material. Our cohort also had the opportunity to meet in person on Baylor's campus, which was another incredible experience that further connected students and faculty!

How did you experience Baylor's Christian mission during your time in the MSMS program?

Baylor's Christian mission provided me an unexpected opportunity to strengthen my faith through the MSMS program. The health care profession is no stranger to the hardships that patients and families experience, and learning about these topics through a Christian perspective was a great experience that I won't soon forget. Being part of Baylor's community has grown my relationship with God and has given me a new appreciation for what I would like my future service as a physician to look like.

Start your application today for Baylor University's one-year, 100% online Master of Science in Medical Science degree program.