Heidelberg University students with ambitions for a career in healthcare now have more options to fast-track their path to medical school, thanks to an expanded partnership with the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM).
Under the leadership of Dr. Bryan Smith, professor of chemistry, Heidelberg has signed three new articulation agreements with LECOM that open early acceptance opportunities for students pursuing careers in dentistry, podiatry, and pharmacy.
These new programs build on Heidelberg’s decade-long partnership with LECOM’s osteopathic medicine program, which has already helped several Heidelberg students — including senior Kacy Connolly and junior Olivia Raubenault — gain a head start toward their goals of becoming physicians.
“These pathways keep our students excited about their futures and help them take advantage of an excellent opportunity,” Dr. Smith said.
Each of LECOM’s professional schools will reserve seats specifically for Heidelberg students who meet eligibility requirements:
• School of Dentistry: up to 5 seats
• School of Podiatry: up to 5 seats
• School of Pharmacy: up to 2 seats
Students accepted through these pathways can be conditionally admitted and secure their seat while completing undergraduate coursework at Heidelberg.
One of the biggest benefits, Dr. Smith explained, is that in most cases, medical aptitude tests like the MCAT or GRE are waived for students who meet LECOM’s criteria through Heidelberg. Instead, the application process emphasizes GPA, faculty recommendations, and a personal interview.
“It’s comforting to know you’ve got this opportunity in your pocket,” Smith said. “All of these disciplines are so competitive, and LECOM is taking a chance on young people — and it’s paying off for them.”
Reducing stress, increasing focus
For Heidelberg students already in the program, the benefits go beyond early assurance — they include peace of mind and the ability to focus on what matters most.
Senior biology major Kacy Connolly learned about the LECOM Early Acceptance Program (EAP) from her advisor, Dr. Nate Beres. After researching the program, she realized it aligned perfectly with her goals.
“The EAP allowed me to apply to LECOM’s Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program without taking the MCAT,” Connolly said. “Disbelief was my first thought when I got accepted, but that quickly turned into a sense of accomplishment. It felt amazing knowing I was one step closer to becoming a healthcare provider.”
Kacy said the early acceptance has allowed her to focus on her coursework and personal growth.
“It definitely takes the stress off,” she said. “I can concentrate on my classes and new opportunities to build professional skills without worrying about the MCAT or costly applications. The EAP guided me down the right path.”
For junior biochemistry major Olivia Raubenault, the program offered both security and flexibility.
“I first heard about LECOM as a freshman, but it wasn’t until my sophomore year that I started looking into it seriously,” she said. “Their mission of treating the whole person rather than just the disease really resonated with me.”
Olivia, who has gained meaningful experience working with Alzheimer’s and dementia patients, said the early acceptance program has allowed her to deepen her hands-on learning.
“For me, the greatest advantage isn’t just having a reserved seat, although that is certainly reassuring. It’s what that opportunity allows me to do right now,” she said.
“Knowing I already have a place in medical school means I can put more of my time and energy into patient care experiences and my undergraduate studies, rather than being consumed by the application process or MCAT prep. It gives me space to grow in ways that will ultimately make me a stronger student and future physician.”
A win-win partnership
For Heidelberg, the expanded partnership underscores the university’s commitment to preparing students for meaningful careers in healthcare. For LECOM, it ensures a pipeline of well-prepared students who are eager to serve their communities.
“To have early acceptance is definitely an anxiety reducer,” Smith said. “It really is an opportunity that’s too good to pass up for students who are committed to medical school.”
Interested students should contact Dr. Bryan Smith or Heidelberg’s Office of Academic Affairs for details about eligibility, application timelines, and program requirements.