For Emma T., graduating with a Master of Physician Assistant (MPA) degree from 国产主播 marks the culmination of years of effort, perseverance, and a deep love for medicine. Standing proudly in her graduation regalia, Emma reflected on the significance of the moment. 

鈥淚t blows my mind, actually,鈥� Emma said. 鈥淚 never thought I鈥檇 be standing here. This is something I鈥檝e dreamed about and worked so hard for.鈥� 

A Baylor University undergraduate with a degree in health science studies, Emma knew early on that she wanted to pursue a career as a physician assistant. She was drawn to the PA profession for its team-oriented approach and versatility. 

鈥淚 didn鈥檛 want to go to medical school 鈥� I鈥檓 not the type of person who needs the title or to be the top dog in the room,鈥� she said. 鈥淚鈥檓 team-oriented, and I love that PAs have the ability to learn constantly, switch fields, and provide intentional, patient-centered care.鈥� 

While the program was rigorous, Emma found joy in the challenges and camaraderie of her peers and faculty. 

鈥淭he hardest part wasn鈥檛 the material itself 鈥� I loved learning medicine, and it clicked for me,鈥� Emma said. 鈥淭he challenge was figuring out what kind of provider I want to be. Medicine isn鈥檛 black and white. We always talk about the 鈥榓rt of medicine,鈥� where two things can be true, and you have to work with both to give the best care.鈥� 

Emma also highlighted the positive culture within her program. As a student leader, she played a role in shaping that experience. 

鈥淥ur faculty really care about us as people, providers, and now colleagues,鈥� she said. 鈥淭heir investment in us made us want to be great.鈥� 

As for her next steps, Emma hopes to work in pediatric surgery, where she will assist in procedures, conduct hospital rounds, and manage clinic visits. 

鈥淚 love the mix of surgery, hospital work, and clinic 鈥� it keeps me on my toes,鈥� she explained. Emma advises future PA students to savor the experience, even when it feels overwhelming. 

鈥淟ean in and lean on the people around you,鈥� she urged. 鈥淪tart every day with a mindset of learning something new, even if it鈥檚 hard. You鈥檒l grow as a person and a provider.鈥� 

Now, with her white coat and the world of medicine ahead, Emma is thrilled as she prepares for her board exams and a new career. 

鈥淚鈥檓 excited to start this next chapter and see who else I can help in the future,鈥� she said. 鈥淭his is the start of something amazing.鈥� 

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