USU Enlisted-to-Medical-Degree Class Achieves 100 Percent Medical School Acceptance

The Enlisted to Medical Degree Preparatory Program (EMDP2) reaches a defining milestone as its latest cohort transitions from the enlisted ranks to the next phase of their journey-becoming future military physicians at the Uniformed Services University and other distinguished institutions.

The Enlisted to Medical Degree Preparatory Program (EMDP2) Cohort 10 achieved a historic 100% acceptance rate into medical school. (Photo credit: Tom Balfour, USU)

March 24, 2026 by Ashlyn E. Howard, MSgt, USAF, Student Enlisted Advisor, EMDP2

For the first time since the program's inception in 2014, the Uniformed Services University's (USU) Enlisted to Medical Degree Preparatory Program (EMDP2) has reached a historic milestone as Cohort 10 achieved a 100% acceptance rate into medical school. This achievement marks a defining moment in the program's history and highlights the exceptional caliber, resilience, and determination of the enlisted service members within the program.

Developing the Next Generation of Military Physicians

Dr. Lisa M. Harris, EMDP2 Program Director, provides leadership and hands-on guidance to help students achieve highly competitive medical school scores. (Photo credit: Tom Balfour, USU)

Established to prepare highly qualified enlisted personnel for the rigorous academic and professional demands of medical education, the EMDP2 continues to fulfill its mission of developing future military physicians from within the ranks. These future providers will play a critical role in supporting operational readiness and delivering care in complex environments, including the treatment of battlefield injuries such as traumatic brain injury.

Cohort 10's unprecedented success reflects not only the competitiveness of its selectees, but also their exceptional work ethic, commitment to service, and unwavering dedication to pursuing military medicine.

This success is rooted in a culture of mentorship, accountability, and comprehensive student development. At the center of that effort is Army Col. Danielle Holt, Associate Dean for Admissions and Recruitment, and EMDP2 Program Director Dr. Lisa M. Harris, whose leadership and hands-on guidance have helped position students to achieve highly competitive Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores ranging from 515 to 526.

"Everyone's Pathway is Different"

Guided by Harris's philosophy that "Everyone's pathway to medicine is different," Holt and Harris have cultivated an environment where varied backgrounds and experiences are not only welcomed, but recognized as strengths. Their mentorship has helped shape a program culture that challenges students to excel while supporting them holistically throughout their journey.

That foundation has translated into exceptional outcomes. Cohort 10 members have earned acceptance to and will matriculate at distinguished medical schools across the nation, including Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine; Central Michigan University College of Medicine; East Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine; Eastern Virginia Medical School; Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine; Howard University College of Medicine; Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine; Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine; Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine; Texas A&M University College of Medicine; University of South Carolina School of Medicine; the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences; and Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine.

"A 100 percent matriculation rate is an extraordinary accomplishment," said Dr. Eric Elster, Dean of USU's F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine, which oversees the EMDP2 program. "This achievement speaks to the strength of the EMDP2 model and the remarkable individuals it attracts. These future physicians carry with them the experience of enlisted service and a commitment to serve, which will make them uniquely prepared to lead and deliver care in the most challenging operational environments. Congratulations to Col. Holt, Dr. Harris, and their team for guiding the students to this historic milestone."

As Cohort 10 transitions into medical school, its historic success underscores EMDP2's growing impact across the Military Health System. More than a reflection of individual achievement, it signals a strong and steady future-one in which enlisted service members continue to rise as the next generation of military physicians.