July 1, 2024 — The University of Florida College of Medicine welcomed 60 students to the School of Physician Assistant Studies Class of 2026 during orientation week from June 26-28. Over the next two years, members of the class will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and technologies as well as top-notch faculty, immersing themselves in medical knowledge and gaining clinical experience on their journeys to careers in medicine.

“I have always been interested in health care, which is so multifaceted that it was not until I reflected on my collegiate experiences that I picked the PA profession. The collaborative nature and professional flexibility felt like they aligned with what I appreciated most from previous roles I held. I am excited about the first semester starting, and I am looking forward to diving into content that is not only interesting to me but that will also be applied in clinical practice. My experiences leading up to this have me looking forward to joining the Gator community and growing alongside talented and like-minded individuals. I also feel very lucky to have my sister starting her Doctor of Physical Therapy program at UF alongside me!”

“After an honorable discharge from the military, I knew I wanted to continue to serve my country and community. Ultimately, my decision to pursue the path of a physician assistant came after a training event for the Florida National Guard. I was injured, and my life was saved by a timely diagnosis and intervention by the unit physician assistant. I chose UF’s PA program because I value service to the community and believe I will have an opportunity to work with other students to make a difference in people’s lives. Specifically, learning about the Mobile Outreach Clinic drew my attention to this program. I am excited that classes will begin soon, and I am looking forward to the opportunity to improve my skills and education.”

“I knew being a PA was right for me after I had worked in the health care field as a nurse for approximately two years. I worked in the operating room as a circulating nurse for a hospital’s orthopaedic trauma and sports medicine surgeons for a year and then gained experience as a nurse in the emergency department. I was exposed to a variety of health-related issues and direct patient interactions, but I wanted to understand more about the medicine, the diseases, and their processes, and to be able to provide a higher level of care to my patients. I am grateful for the foundation of knowledge nursing has provided and what the career has exposed me to, but I am looking forward to fully embracing the role of a University of Florida PA student and future physician assistant.”