Real-World Opportunities
I worked as a pharmacy technician at CVS for a summer during undergrad, and then I worked as a medical assistant at a dermatology office for 2 years during my senior year at Pitt and my gap year. The skills I gained as a pharm tech help me identify some medications in classes. However, it was my time as an MA that was truly impactful. I realized how much I love interacting with patients every day and helping them to the best of my ability. Being able to talk to patients and make medical jargon understandable is a hallmark of a good provider, and I feel that I got so much practice doing that over 2 years. It also helped to cement that I was truly following the right path and going into a field that I was meant to be in.
A Program Like No Other
I think one of the most impactful aspects of Mount Union's physician assistant program is the smaller class sizes. The small class sizes allow you to truly get to know your professors and peers so that you can feel comfortable reaching out and asking for help (because you will need help at some point). For example, our labs only have 10 students, so it is easy to obtain a professor's attention if you need clarification on a physical exam technique or help with a clinical skill.I have said multiple times throughout my time at Mount Union that I have finally found a place where I am "meant to be." I have grown so much, not only as a student, but as a person. As cheesy as it sounds, follow your heart and your gut. You'll end up exactly where you're supposed to be.
Becoming a PA as a Purple Raider
I have always known that I wanted to work in healthcare, even when I was a little kid. In high school, a family friend told me that she was thinking about pursing PA school. Even though I'd interacted with a few PAs in my life, I didn't really understand their role or how expansive their abilities in the practice could be. Once I researched the profession a bit more, I knew, undoubtedly, that it was the field for me. I worked in a dermatology office where the physician assistant was a preceptor and often interacted with students. When I told the PA that I was applying to graduate school, she immediately recommended that I apply to Mount Union. There was always a noticeable difference in professionalism and preparation from the Mount Union students. Then, when I interviewed, I immediately felt at home with everyone that I met. I could tell that the professors here genuinely cared about their students' overall well-being, not only their academic accomplishments. This is indicative of the program's focus on holistic and mindful practice. Needless to say, the deal was sealed as soon as I received my acceptance.