What drew you to WSU Kinesiology?
- I initially attended a WSU cougs of color orientation event and immediately felt at home with the campus/staff. All of the faculty within the Kinesiology department go out of their way to support students and learning and that really stood out to me compared to other programs. I also really liked the more intimate class sizes.
What school and program did you go to after graduating from WSU?
- I completed my Masters of Medical Sciences at Heritage University in Toppenish, WA. I am now in the MEDEX Physician Assistant Program at the University of Washington.
What practical/internship/shadowing experiences did you pursue at WSU and how did these impact your career choice and application to grad/professional school?
- I was President of the Kinesiology Club, a member of the Exercise Performance and Physiology Laboratory (EPPL), and heavily involved with UREC. I also shadowed at the University Health Clinic a few times and the doctors there were very inspiring. It was amazing to have many opportunities at WSU to network with individuals with diverse career interests. Being involved provided me with valuable insight to what I was really passionate about and shined on my resume when I applied to programs/jobs.
What skills (for example, communication, critical thinking, empathy, teamwork, etc.) have been most important to your journey from undergraduate student to grad/professional school and career?
- I believe the most important skill to have when transitioning from undergraduate education to a career is adaptability. It is not realistic for every single thing you want to go as planned after undergrad. Keeping an adaptable, positive and open mind will open more doors than you think.
What was the most challenging part of transitioning from your undergraduate degree to graduate/professional school, and then your healthcare career?
- Although I always knew I belonged within medicine, I did not always know exactly which realm was for me. I worked as a personal trainer, medical scribe and later a Clinical Exercise Physiologist at a hospital. I simultaneously shadowed NP’s, MD’s, PT’s, RN’s, PA’s at various hospitals. After I found the PA profession, I worked and went to school at the same time to finish prerequisites while gathering application materials for PA programs. It was a grind but hard work definitely pays off!
What advice do you have for 1st year undergrads?
- Be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Put yourself out there. Say yes to every opportunity that comes your way. The only way you will learn more about yourself and your purpose is to put yourself into situations that you’ve never been in before. Make friends with the professors! They will help you find your path and they have so much valuable experience to share with you!
What advice do you have for 4th year undergrads?
- Don’t be shy. Send that shadow request/email. Advocate for yourself. Don’t rush into a career if it doesn’t feel right. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when/if you feel lost!