Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine Student Awarded 2025 $15,000 Founders' Scholarship
July 29, 2025
My name is Jumana Roufail, and I am from Rancho Cucamonga, California. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Human Biology and Society from UCLA, graduating with honors. This interdisciplinary major deepened my understanding of the connection between medicine, public health, and the social determinants of health, shaping my passion for patient advocacy and community service.
At Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine, I have actively pursued opportunities to expand my clinical and leadership skills. As President of the Medicine-Pediatrics Interest Club and a board member of the Student Osteopathic Medical Association, I have organized educational initiatives and hands-on learning experiences to support my peers. My volunteer work at the Asylum Center Clinic has allowed me to serve vulnerable populations, bridging language barriers and advocating for equitable healthcare access.
I have also engaged in research, co-authoring a study on heart rate variability in relation to osteopathic manipulation and vagus nerve stimulation. Additionally, I have contributed to a gastrointestinal surgical case report and a retrospective study on pediatric and adult ESRD patients.
Currently, I am interested in pursuing Pediatrics, where I hope to integrate my passion for mentorship, advocacy, and holistic care. I am eager to build lasting relationships with patients and their families, fostering trust and empowerment in their healthcare journeys. I look forward to the lifelong learning, personal growth, and joy that a career in Pediatrics will bring.
Enjoy a summary of our interview with Jumana below:
Originally from Rancho Cucamonga, California, Jumana is a medical student with a passion for pediatrics and a deep appreciation for the kindness and warmth of the Tucson community. Her interest in medicine began in high school while translating during her mother's doctor visits-an experience that introduced her to the power of compassionate, skilled physicians and inspired her to follow in their footsteps.
She chose osteopathic medicine for its holistic approach and added training in musculoskeletal care, viewing it as an essential part of her clinical toolkit. Currently pursuing a future in pediatrics, she's considering fellowships in emergency medicine or gastroenterology.
When she's not studying, Jumana enjoys Zumba, building Legos, binge-watching TV shows, and practicing her latte art. She credits her journey to the support of family, friends, mentors, and her pediatric preceptors. Her outlook on medicine is grounded in flexibility and resilience: "Plans change-find peace in the new plan."
We're proud to recognize Jumana as a recipient of the TOMF Founders' Scholarship, honoring her dedication, empathy, and commitment to the future of healthcare.