Xavierite Jillian Harris is a part of the trio making women’s health a priority with the help of Tampax. The junior biology major, with minors in chemistry and public health, is a recipient of the “Flow it Forward” Scholarship in conjunction with the J.W. Carmichael program through Xavier’s Pre-medical office.  

The Tampax Flow it Forward project strives to end health misinformation by ensuring equal representation and resources in the medical field. Tampax, the well-known tampon and feminine hygiene brand owned by Procter & Gamble, has committed to investing in education to increase the number of Black female physicians and healthcare workers. The Flow it Forward project specifically supports The United Negro College Fund (UNCF), Girlology Period Program, and Black Women’s Health Imperative by providing annual scholarships. 

Harris’ interest in biology was sparked after watching the hit television series Grey’s Anatomy.  The show’s realistic portrayal of the medical health professions inspired her to pursue a pre-med curriculum, but her mom inspired Harris to attend Xavier University of Louisiana.  

“My mom went here [Xavier], and she had the most incredible experience. I remember her always talking about it. When I was applying to college, I honestly didn’t know where I wanted to go,” said Harris. “My final decision came down to what school was going to shape me into the person I wanted to become and was going to provide an environment that I can grow in as a person. I knew that Xavier was going to be right for me and challenge me.”  

Harris was shocked when she received the news that she was a J.W. Carmichael and Tampax scholarship recipient. She was overjoyed to be welcomed and celebrated by a major company.  

“The biggest worry for me was coming to college and being able to pay for my education. Due to my financial predicament sometimes, there are things that I am exempt from applying to,” Harris shared while discussing the financial relief the Tampax scholarship gave her. “Tampax is a leader in producing feminine hygiene products, and it’s a huge honor that they recognized me.”  

Harris expressed that Xavier has uplifted her in every way possible. She admitted to appreciating how Xavier highlights its students by sharing their accomplishments with the entire community. 

Harris is still exploring potential practices in her future career. She has become one step closer by receiving early assurance into Baylor University College of Medicine and is contemplating a dual degree program. For Harris, receiving this scholarship has re-established the importance of investing in the education of underrepresented communities.  

“What a lot of people don’t realize is there are a lot of constraints on the types of scholarships certain students can apply for, depending on their parents’ financial position,” said Harris. “What I’ve learned is what the government thinks you can pay for college is not always the reality of what your parents can contribute. There is a need to recognize extraneous circumstances that people may face that won’t completely alienate an entire population from applying to a scholarship.”  

Through this realization, Harris has grown a deeper appreciation for Tampax’s scholarship. She did not feel constrained by specific scholarship requirements as the scholarship is dedicated to granting awards to underrepresented populations.  

“Tampax is a company willing to spotlight those communities that have not always been given the opportunities to pursue careers in the medical field. It goes to show you that they are a company that is about inclusivity,” shared Harris. “Xavier is known for producing young, Black female students who are pursuing careers in medicine and Xavier has always been a testament to the importance of diverse representation in the healthcare field.” 

Harris also stated that being recognized on Tampax’s social media platforms during Black history month is another example of the company’s dedication to highlighting student leaders. It helps to show Tampax’s commitment to making a difference in minority communities.  

“So many of us at Xavier have been doing the work thus far. It may not always get recognized every day, but when it does, it’s a testament that the work is worth it. This is what we are here for, and this is a milestone in our journey, which for many of us is in medicine,” said Harris.  

Harris expresses that the most important lesson she has learned through her Xavier experience is “hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” She acknowledges true success comes from actively applying oneself through any obstacle.  

“In ten years, I see myself married with kids, happy within my career, and that I’m making a difference in helping to eliminate health disparities. If I do nothing else, the most important thing to me is to address the stark contrasts in Black maternal and infant health and helping to inspire the next generation of black health professionals,” shared Harris.  

For more information on scholarship opportunities, visit https://www.xula.edu/scholarships/.