Determined Mindset
I planned to be a pre-med major with hopes of one day going to medical school when I was an undergraduate student. Shortly before beginning my college education at YSU, I switched to a Chemical Engineering major and pursued that for 2 years. After determining that career path was not for me and some extensive research, I decided on the Physician Assistant path. I love the flexibility of the job and having the opportunity to switch specialties without having to go back to school. I also love working as a team and the support system that comes with the job. Additionally, the time spent with patients is greater as a PA compared to a Physician and I really want to be able to make connections with the people I am tending to. There are countless reasons to become a PA, but making a positive impact in the lives of others is why I chose to further my education.
Real-World Experience
When touring college campuses, one can only envision themselves at that school, but Mount Union allows visiting perspective students- undergraduate and graduate to interact with faculty and sit-in in real-world situations. When I came to tour the campus, I met with Stephanie Helmick and professor Allison Greene who asked current students that attended Youngstown State as undergraduates to discuss the program with me and answer any questions I had. Professor Greene allowed me to sit-in and observe a class practicing a surgical suture; I was even allowed to try removing a suture with some students. I find it beneficial to students' careers that they get hands-on learning opportunities such as working with cadavers at NEOMED. Another experience I really enjoyed was the trip to Guatemala that second year PA students were able to go on. Traveling abroad to help those in need with few medical resources is a once in a lifetime experience because students learn what the importance of working in the medical field is.
Mount Union Impact
My favorite component of the physician assistant program at Mount Union is the faculty. My professors are some of the most intelligent, selfless, and kind individuals I have had the privilege of learning from over the past several months. They are all PA's and understand the challenges students are going through, because they have all been there. I am fortunate to learn from such inspiring humans who give me the best advice on anything I have questions about. They also have the clinical experience to give us the best knowledge and opportunities to succeed.