13 April 2025 2 minute read
In her very first biology class in high school, Destiny Jones knew for a fact that she had a sincere love for science. That spark blossomed into a passion for medicine and her calling to become a family physician. “As I pursued this career, I developed a passion for caring for others and helping them achieve better health outcomes,” Jones shared. “Learning about the lack of health equity and the underrepresentation of Black physicians—just 5% nationwide—deepened my commitment to this field.”
As a first-generation college student, Jones endured her share of obstacles. But coming to Spelman marked a crossroad. “There was a lack of resources and advisement in my early years, but Spelman has taught me the importance of networking and building relationships,” she said. One mentorship was with Dr. Blake, someone she met through the Health Careers Program. “His guidance, along with the support of the program, has truly shaped the woman I am today.”
Jones' time at Spelman has also been shaped by remarkable global experiences. Studying abroad at Queen Mary University of London not only made a lifelong dream come true but also impacted her view on helthcare. “Being immersed in a new system—universal healthcare, and understanding how geography affects access—gave me a better grasp of global health and helped me grow personally in ways I never expected.”
Leadership and mentorship are key aspects of Jones' journey. Through her work with the “Bridging the Gap” Committee in the Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students (MAPS), she helped put together essential resources for students who were navigating their own journeys in pre-med. “That work birthed my love for mentorship,” she reflected. This passion led her to serve in the Student Success Program, where she mentors first-year STEM students, many of whom remind her of her younger self. “I tell them to be bold, take advantage of every opportunity, and don’t let fear stop them from changing their life’s trajectory.”
Jones is not new to overcoming challenges. Without a medical background in her family, she had to learn everything about medicine and related opportunities on her own. “Freshman year, I didn’t even know what an internship was—and I was embarrassed when I couldn’t land one. But with help from mentors and the Health Careers Program, I’ve now completed four internships and three research projects. It's not about the challenge—it's how you overcome it.”
A passionate advocate for equity, Jones is already paving the way for long-term impact. Through her nonprofit, CARE In Action, which she plans to relaunch soon, she hopes to empower and educate underrepresented students to pursue the medical field professionally. “I’d love to see more physicians going back into underserved communities, helping students understand how to get where we are.”
As she looks toward medical school, Jones is looking for for an institution that prioritizes community engagement. “My mission is to increase representation and close health equity gaps. I want a school that shares those values, so I can sharpen my tools to serve communities that need it most.”
Her professional preparation has been bolstered by going to national conferences and career fairs like those hosted by the AAMC. “They’ve allowed me to build meaningful relationships with schools and companies that support my journey,” she said.
Despite her packed schedule, Jones finds joy in dancing, trying new cuisines, and hanging out with friends. “Work-life balance is essential, especially on the road to becoming a physician. These little joys keep me grounded and remind me why I do what I do.”
From the labs of Spelman to the borroughs of London, from mentoring incoming students to preparing for medical school, Jones is the embodiment of excellence, empathy, and resilience. Her journey is just beginning—and the future of medicine is brighter because of it.