Hometown: Carroll, IA
Undergrad School: Simpson College
Major: Biology
Age: 22
Class: Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies – Class of  2012

Were you surprised by anything in the program?

I was surprised how much our instructors truly want us to succeed and how much time and effort they take to ensure that this happens.

Any advice for prospective students?

Be confident in your abilities. Do not eliminate opportunities because you are too scared to fail. Take full advantage of learning opportunities that arise in undergrad and health care experiences and try to absorb as much information as possible.

What do you do when you’re not studying?

When I’m not studying, I am usually hanging out with my friends or in front of the TV watching one of the many shows I’m addicted to!

Why do you want to be a physician assistant?

Among the many reasons, being part of a health care TEAM is probably one of the top reasons I want to be a PA. PAs are also playing a key role in providing care for areas of under-served populations and with the changes in health care it will be very interesting to be on the front line of change.

Why DMU?

I chose DMU because I really liked that the entire campus was focused on medicine. The unique opportunity to study medicine alongside the other programs that DMU has to offer prepares for a lifelong career in multi-professional health care teams.

Career objectives:

I am still keeping my options open and hope to have a better idea during my clinical rotations. As of right now, I enjoy orthopedics, surgery and family medicine.

Favorite thing about Des Moines:

I enjoy seeing shows at the Des Moines Civic Center. They attract some of the most popular shows on Broadway, and it’s a very good break from studying!