By Fatima Magana '22

ALLIANCE-Physician assistant student Chessie Misja ’24 M’26 pursued a biology degree at the University of Mount Union, hoping to enroll in its physician assistant studies (PA) program after graduating. Her undergraduate experience in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences prepared Misja to further her education as a PA student at her alma mater.

Misja '24 M'26

“Entering college, I knew that I wanted to attend PA school, and the biology major at Mount Union aligned well with all the prerequisites I needed to take to apply to PA school,” said Misja.

To prepare for PA school, Misja conducted research as an undergraduate student with Dr. Kim Risley, professor of biology, who mentored her throughout college and helped prepare Misja for her post-graduation plans. Working alongside Risley, Misja built a skillset that she can utilize in the medical field, but most importantly, she gained confidence as a medical student. 

“One of the most impactful clinical experiences was an orthopedic surgery medical mission trip I attended a year before starting PA school,” said Misja. “I was fortunate enough to go to Honduras with a group of doctors, nurses, scrub techs, and other people and help assist in hip and knee replacement surgeries for people in Honduras who cannot afford these procedures.”

Misja '24 M'26 and a group of  students

Describing her journey as a woman in STEM as a ‘growth’ journey, Misja explained that she learned to overcome self-doubt and manage her time to effectively carry out work in the biology field and succeed in PA school. Therefore, Misja advises younger female students wishing to pursue a career in STEM to work hard and never give up on their goals. Grateful for the opportunities given to her at Mount Union, Misja is excited to begin gaining experience as a physician assistant during her second year in the program.

Learn how you can further your career in STEM as a woman in Mount Union's graduate programs.