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When Michelle Bookal graduates this spring from Morehouse School of Medicine’s Master of Science in Medical Sciences (MSMS) program, she does so as a testament to vision, faith and fearless determination. Born in Toronto to Jamaican parents, Michelle arrived at MSM with no local family, but with a bold dream: to walk the halls of an HBCU and one day become an OB/GYN who could serve women others might overlook. 

 

“In my nursing program, there were only four Black students. Only three of us graduated,” she shared. “I always wanted to attend an HBCU. I saw the experience on social media, and I just knew I wanted to be part of a place where I could belong, and lead all while being surrounded by those that looked like me.” 

 

Michelle had been manifesting this moment for years. Back in 2018, she posted a list of her top three medical school choices on Facebook — Morehouse School of Medicine was at the very top. 

 

That full-circle moment came to life when she was accepted into MSM’s MSMS program, and later, the MD program. From her first days on campus, Michelle found what she had long searched for: a community where purpose guides every step and service isn’t just encouraged but expected. “Here, everything I do is filled with purpose. It’s not just about academics. It’s about impact.” 

 

She saw that impact firsthand when she helped organize MSM’s First Look event, welcoming high school students to campus. As students asked for her advice, her contact information, and even her Instagram handle, Michelle realized the power of mentorship. “They were looking up to me the same way I looked up to others. It reminded me that someone had once done that for me.” 

 

Michelle’s story is one of leaps — geographic, professional and spiritual. She moved to the U.S. in 2021 without family, accepted a nursing job in Washington, D.C., during the pandemic and later relocated to Atlanta. Throughout it all, her drive remained constant and allowed her to receive offers from multiple MD Programs. “This is my third time applying to medical school. I took the MCAT three times. Failure happened, but I didn’t stop.” 

 

Her calling became clear early. Michelle was born prematurely at just 2 pounds, 11 ounces after her mother experienced eclampsia and nearly lost her life. The OB/GYN who delivered her, Dr. Caroline Sibley, fought for her and her mother when others gave up. Years later, Michelle shadowed Dr. Sibley — the very woman who had helped save her life. “That moment showed me exactly who I want to be. I want to be the doctor who fights for her patients when no one else will.” 

 

With plans to specialize in OB/GYN and pursue a fellowship in maternal-fetal medicine, Michelle hopes to open a clinic in a rural, underserved area of the U.S. “The need is greater here,” she said. “And I want to be where I’m needed most.” 

 

Her advice to future dreamers: “Don’t let fear hinder your purpose. Take the leap. Fail, if you must — but keep going. Your purpose is waiting for you.” 

 

 

About the Author

Michael Martin is a content strategist who believes in crafting compelling stories that inspire and connect. With a pen for storytelling, he brings the journeys of future physicians to life, highlighting their impact and dedication to healthcare.

Contact

Michael Martin
Digital Content Strategist
Office of Marketing & Communications
mamartin@msm.edu