Hometown: Draper, SD
Undergrad school: Dakota Wesleyan University
Major/minor: Biology with a minor in entrepreneurship
Age: 22
Class: PA class of 2013
Why do you want to be a physician assistant?
I have always wanted to work in health care and being a physician assistant is the perfect niche for me.
Why DMU?
DMU was my first interview and I was completely wowed by the entire experience. My favorite parts are the friendly campus atmosphere, the technology, and the length of the program.
Career objectives:
Coming into PA school, I was set on being a rural family practice PA. Although that is still high on my list of options, I have found that I am interested in a broad spectrum of specialties. I am really excited for my clinical year to have more opportunities to explore all the options there are in this profession.
Extracurricular activities:
Student Ambassador and Community Service Committee.
Favorite thing about Des Moines:
I love the opportunity to experience city life but at the same time maintain a small town atmosphere. Being from rural South Dakota I was a little worried about moving to the city, but I feel very comfortable in Des Moines and there are always things to do when I’m not studying! I especially like Gray’s lake for a relaxing run or walk when I need a break from school.
What do you do when you’re not studying?
Study breaks are a MUST when going through this program. I try to spend as much time as I can with my fiancé on the weekends. There are a lot of neat places to see in Des Moines, but our favorite thing to do is to just have relaxing game nights with some classmates.
Were you surprised by anything in the program?
I was surprised on how much I rely on my classmates for support. There are 50 other people who understand exactly what you are going through. Many times it is my peers who get me through the rough days.
Any advice for prospective students?
GRADES DON’T MATTER ANYMORE! Ok, well they do, but I am constantly reminding myself that I am here to become the best health care provider possible, not to graduate PA school with a 4.0. Strive to do your best and learn as much as you can every day.