Knowing Her Path, Pursuing Her Purpose

Fran Stevens is a 27-year-old Central, Louisiana native determined to become a physician.

A mom of two, Dewayne Jr. and Cherie, Stevens joined FranU in 2021 as a nursing major after spending eight years working in caregiving roles.

Two years into the Nursing program, Stevens transitioned to the Biology program’s Pre-Professional Human Medicine track to pursue her goal of becoming an internal medicine physician.

“I discovered my passion for biology due to my love for anatomy and physiology,” she said. “I enjoy learning the mechanics and pathways of how the body works and its focus to heal itself without medication.”

The University’s integration of faith into the curriculum stands out to Stevens, allowing her to take Theology courses alongside her science classes, something she says sets FranU apart from other universities.

"I also love pharmacology topics and learning how each medication affects an organ system,” Stevens said. “Studying disease, or pathology, teaches you how to crucially think, and doing this is my expertise.”

She stays active in the campus community through student involvement in the Environmental Care Organization and now as a pre-med senator in Beta Sigma Mu.

With a clear vision for her future in medicine, Stevens will begin medical school after graduation.

Stevens said she truly recognized her calling during a patient encounter while working in a family medicine clinic. A patient came in upset about having eczema, a condition Steven also lives with.

“I told her I can relate to what she is feeling,” she said.

This moment moved Stevens, and there she realized her niche of empathizing with patients and helping them better understand their bodies.

An impact I hope to make as a future physician would be to help the patient better understand the why behind what medicines they take, the conditions they have and focus on a more holistic approach when it comes to their health,” Stevens said.

Balancing motherhood, work and school is not easy, but Stevens credits her support system and determination to keeping her motivated.

My children and husband keep me motivated,” she said. “Also, individuals who need a better explanation of what is happening to their bodies need me. I have been called to serve others, and this is what motivates me.”

With her husband and children cheering her on, Stevens continues pursuing medicine with confidence, determination and care.