A Passion for the Medical Field
The medical science of the human body has always peaked my interest but narrowing down a particular field to follow for my entire career didn't appeal to me. The lateral mobility of the physician assistant career would allow me to explore multiple areas of medicine, and allow me to connect with different patient populations as i age throughout my career. Prior to starting this program, I worked as an MA at a cardiology and internal medicine office in New Jersey. We had a large load of patients, many of which were elderly or had English as their second language. The gratitude of these individuals helped keep me grounded in the healing that the personal connection in the field of medicine provides. Despite having to overcome language, age, or cultural barriers, I made an effort to truly listen and connect with each of the patients I saw, while still collecting appropriate medical history. The first hand experience I gained during my time in that office has been applicable to numerous classes, but most importantly, it has brought to light what I as an individual will bring to the field of medicine as a PA.
Shared Values
Community service is a value that I share amongst the population at Mount Union. Service can look different for every person and I've had the pleasure to utilize the skills I've learned as a PA student, in taking vitals, to assist in experiences such as the Relax and Destress Event in the fall. Connecting with members of the community while being able to provide a service that not many others can was a unique and rewarding experience. The faculty and overall program challenge its students to give their best effort in the work they carry out at Mount Union. We are prepared well to help those needing medical assistance through rigorous coursework and hands-on opportunities and teamwork.
Why Mount Union?
My interview with the Mount Union physician assistant studies program faculty set it apart from every other graduate program I was considering. Each of the faculty members I met expressed a level of personability that put me at ease with the decision I would make. It truly felt like they wanted to know me as a person, and not just a prospective student. I knew PA school would be a challenging journey no matter where I went, but I felt the professors at Mount Union could offer unparalleled comfort and support while still challenging me to become the best provider I can be.