I decided to pursue the DMSc because I have a passion for medicine, public health, and education. I started my journey at ATSU in the DHSc program in 2017 while working full-time in Family Medicine and as an adjunct faculty for National University. My goal was to graduate and increase my role in advocacy for the field and become more involved in PA education.

I switched gears to the DMSc once it became available, because I feel that this is the way the future of the PA profession is going. I am proud to be one of the first students to graduate in the inaugural class of 2021.

During the program, I studied mental health among healthcare professionals and students enrolled in healthcare-oriented programs. My study changed shape when Covid hit our community. Not only was I seeing first-hand the strain on our healthcare team in clinical practice in Maricopa County, but also on our student body as we all tried to navigate the pandemic.

The faculty at ATSU were always supportive of our class and made the program manageable, even during times of uncertainty and insurmountable stress related to overcoming the numerous barriers of a global health crisis. Since graduating, I began mentoring as a preceptor for PAs during their Family Medicine rotation at my local clinic. Most recently, I have taken a full-time faculty position at West Coast University.

The education and support of the faculty allowed me to not only survive, but thrive in the program, and has helped me to reach my goals. I am forever grateful for my education and experience at ATSU in the DMSc program.