MPA Archives | 国产主播 110+ years in education. 50,000 alumni across the globe. Infinite opportunities. Tue, 22 Jul 2025 15:58:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 /wp-content/uploads/2023/02/cropped-favicon-32x32.png MPA Archives | 国产主播 32 32 5 Healthcare Graduate Programs Under 3 Years /blog/5-healthcare-graduate-programs-under-3-years Tue, 22 Jul 2025 15:58:18 +0000 /?p=27256 5 Healthcare Graduate Programs Under 3 Years

Thinking about grad school but not sure you鈥檙e ready to spend half a decade in the classroom? There鈥檚 good news: not all healthcare graduate programs require you to put your life on pause for years. In fact, you can step into some of the most impactful roles in the field through accelerated master鈥檚 and doctoral […]

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5 Healthcare Graduate Programs Under 3 Years

Thinking about grad school but not sure you鈥檙e ready to spend half a decade in the classroom? There鈥檚 good news: not all healthcare graduate programs require you to put your life on pause for years. In fact, you can step into some of the most impactful roles in the field through accelerated master鈥檚 and doctoral programs in less than three years.

Whether you’re building on a healthcare background or starting fresh, you have numerous options that can lead you to a rewarding career. Keep reading to discover five healthcare graduate degrees that can help you build a successful career 鈥 without the long wait.

What Are Common Graduate Healthcare Degrees?

Medical school isn鈥檛 the only way to build a worthwhile career in healthcare. While it鈥檚 easy to picture years of studying before you can begin working, some healthcare graduate programs offer faster, more flexible avenues into patient care without compromising on quality.

If you鈥檙e exploring your next steps, some common graduate paths include programs for physician assistants, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and pharmacists. These roles let you work directly with patients while also giving you the chance to take on leadership and decision-making responsibilities.

Plus, at an accredited institution like 国产主播, you can prepare for many of these careers in less time. Take a look at some common graduate healthcare degrees:

1. Master of Physician Assistant

Want the advantages of being a medical provider without spending years in medical school? diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, perform exams, and even assist in surgeries, working closely with physicians across a range of clinical settings.

Through the Master of Physician Assistant program at WCU, you can earn your degree in as little as two years. You鈥檒l build a strong foundation through classroom learning and gain real-world experience during a full year of clinical rotations across multiple specialties.

Toward the end of the program, you鈥檒l get individualized support to confidently prepare for the .

2. Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT)

allows you to help people heal physically while also supporting their emotional and social well-being. Whether you’re working with a child facing developmental delays or an adult recovering from surgery, you鈥檙e guiding patients as they regain confidence and independence.

At WCU, the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program takes less than two years to complete, with no bachelor鈥檚 degree needed. You’ll learn through a mix of classroom instruction, clinical labs, and fieldwork placements that prepare you for the exam.

Earning a master鈥檚 degree is also a key requirement for becoming a licensed occupational therapist, making this program a smart and practical next step. Learn more about what it takes to become an occupational therapist in California.

3. Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD)

If you鈥檙e ready to build on your occupational therapy background and grow into a leadership role, the Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program at WCU can help you get started. Designed for working professionals, this advanced degree helps prepare you for clinical specialization, research, advocacy, and program development.

The program can be completed in as little as 32 months (less than three years) and combines on-campus with online synchronous learning for greater flexibility. Plus, from day one, you鈥檙e matched with an occupational therapy (OT) faculty mentor who can offer personalized guidance and help you explore the many settings where OTs make an impact.

4. Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

You鈥檝e seen them in rehabilitation clinics, athletic facilities, or at private practices. are movement specialists who help patients through recovery from surgery, injury, or chronic conditions.

From stroke recovery to sports rehab, PTs develop personalized treatment plans and guide patients through every stage of healing, often becoming a critical part of someone鈥檚 journey back to independence.

The Doctor of Physical Therapy program at WCU is designed to give you hands-on experience to excel in this growing field through three full-time, end-of-program internships. You鈥檒l also complete coursework that covers topics such as biomechanics, neuromuscular rehabilitation, and ethical practice.

5. Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)

If you picture pharmacists as people who just count pills behind a counter, think again. Pharmaciststoday are patient-facing healthcare providers, and in many states, they can even administer vaccines and consult directly with physicians as part of a comprehensive care team.

奥颁鲍鈥檚 hybrid Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program can be completed in just under three years. The curriculum combines clinical rotations with a strong foundation in drug safety, therapeutics, and healthcare systems. Once you graduate, you鈥檒l be prepared to take the and step confidently into roles across hospitals, research, retail, or even public health policy.

Want to explore this career path in greater depth? Learn more about becoming a pharmacist in California.

How to Choose a Healthcare Graduate Program

Selecting the right graduate program begins with being clear about your professional goals and learning style. It鈥檚 also important to factor in any current responsibilities that might affect your ability to stay focused while enrolled.

If you鈥檙e looking for a hands-on role in clinical care or being part of a care team, paths as a physician assistant or physical therapist can give you the kind of patient interaction that many find especially rewarding. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to medication management or even research, you might feel more fulfilled as a pharmacist.

As you weigh your options, ask yourself questions such as:

  • Can the program fit my current work or family schedule?
  • Will the program prepare me to sit for any required licensure or certification exams?
  • Are there opportunities for diverse clinical rotations?
  • Is the learning format (online, hybrid, or in-person) a good match for how I learn best?

In the end, the right program supports your career goals, personal strengths, and lifestyle. If you鈥檙e not sure where to start, reaching out to the admissions team at a school you’re considering is a great first step.

Earn a Graduate Degree in Healthcare in Under 3 Years at WCU

You don鈥檛 have to spend half a decade in grad school to make a difference in healthcare. Whether you see yourself guiding patients as a physician assistant, supporting your community as a pharmacist, or helping people regain independence through occupational therapy, there are healthcare graduate programs that can get you there in less than three years.

At 奥颁鲍鈥檚 Center for Graduate Studies in Los Angeles, each accredited healthcare program is built to prepare you for real-world success with experienced faculty and industry-current simulation labs. From your first assignment to your clinical rotations, 奥颁鲍鈥檚 programs are designed for future healthcare professionals who are ready to lead with purpose.

Advance your education on your own terms 鈥 schedule an information session at WCU today to see how you can earn your graduate degree in under three years.

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WCU-Texas MPA Graduate Excited to 鈥楽tart Next Chapter鈥 at Pediatric Surgery Center /blog/wcu-texas-mpa-graduate-excited-to-start-next-chapter-at-pediatric-surgery-center Wed, 16 Apr 2025 16:00:33 +0000 /?p=21872 WCU-Texas MPA graduate

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 […]

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WCU-Texas MPA graduate

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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WCU-Texas Graduate Ready to Take Next Step After Completing Master of Physician Assistant Program聽 /blog/wcu-texas-graduate-ready-to-take-next-step-after-completing-master-of-physician-assistant-program Wed, 12 Mar 2025 16:00:33 +0000 /?p=21834

After graduating from the rigorous two-year Master of Physician Assistant program at 国产主播-Texas, Anthony I. walked across the stage on commencement day with a well-earned sense of accomplishment.  Now, he is setting his sights on the next step: Passing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE).  鈥淩ight now, my main focus is on […]

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After graduating from the rigorous two-year Master of Physician Assistant program at 国产主播-Texas, Anthony I. walked across the stage on commencement day with a well-earned sense of accomplishment. 

Now, he is setting his sights on the next step: Passing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE). 

鈥淩ight now, my main focus is on passing the PANCE,鈥 he said. 鈥淏ut I鈥檝e been looking at the job market, too. I鈥檓 just excited to put all the skills and knowledge I鈥檝e gained into action.鈥 

Anthony, who earned his undergraduate degree in 2020 from Texas Tech, described his excitement about 奥颁鲍鈥檚 program and his reasons for pursuing the PA route. 

鈥淚 always knew I wanted to be in medicine, either as a doctor or a PA,鈥 he said. 鈥淏ut my personality is that I get bored easily, so I wanted flexibility. As a PA, you can switch specialties whenever you desire 鈥 that really sold me on the profession.鈥 

Reflecting on his time at WCU-Texas, Anthony emphasized the value of the relationships built during the demanding program. 

鈥淏esides gaining the clinical skills to care for patients, the best part was the bonds you create,鈥 he shared. 鈥淵ou lean on your classmates, family, and support systems, especially during those ups and downs. The victory today is just as big for them as it is for me.鈥 

The journey was not without its challenges. For Anthony, the hardest part was balancing work, studies, and life during clinical rotations. 

鈥淵ou go to work, come home, sleep, and repeat the cycle,鈥 he explained. 鈥淎t the same time, you鈥檙e constantly studying for exams every few weeks. It鈥檚 about pushing through burnout and remembering the end goal.鈥 

Anthony expressed gratitude for WCU-Texas, noting how the program exceeded his expectations. 

鈥淎t first, I was hesitant because it鈥檚 a newer program, but I never felt like just a number here. The faculty and staff were proactive and supportive, always meeting us halfway to find solutions,鈥 he said. 

Looking ahead to 2025, Anthony is eager to begin his career in healthcare and make a difference in patients鈥 lives. 

鈥淭hat鈥檚 why we go through all of this,鈥 he said. 鈥淚鈥檓 ready to put it all to use.鈥 

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Graduates Celebrate 2024 国产主播 Commencement at Plano Events Center /blog/graduates-celebrate-2024-west-coast-university-commencement-at-plano-center Mon, 23 Dec 2024 15:00:00 +0000 /?p=21722

Graduates from 国产主播鈥檚 Texas campus and Online Programs gathered in front of friends and families this December at the Plano Event Center to celebrate the 2024 Commencement.  Master of Physician Assistant graduate Anthony I. said he always wanted to be in medicine, either as a doctor or a PA but wanted flexibility. As […]

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Graduates from 国产主播鈥檚 Texas campus and Online Programs gathered in front of friends and families this December at the Plano Event Center to celebrate the 2024 Commencement. 

Master of Physician Assistant graduate Anthony I. said he always wanted to be in medicine, either as a doctor or a PA but wanted flexibility. As a PA, he said, you can switch specialties whenever you desire 鈥 and that鈥檚 what really sold him on the profession. 

鈥淚 never felt like a number at 国产主播,” Anthony said. “I felt like they saw me as a person, and today, I’m most thankful to be completing my master’s program.鈥 

Already a licensed vocational nurse for over a decade, WCU-Texas BSN graduate Courtney W. was driven to earn the registered nurse title to unlock better career prospects. 

“I was making good money in California, but I didn鈥檛 have that RN title. I didn’t go straight to college right after high school, so it’s never too late,” she said.  

A former Baylor University undergraduate with a degree in health science studies, Emma T. said she was drawn to the PA profession for its team-oriented approach and versatility.  

鈥淚 never thought I’d be standing here. I think it’s just something I’ve dreamed about and worked so hard for,” Emma said. “I know that this program prepared me well I was surrounded by such great friends and classmates and faculty that they never let me doubt myself.鈥 

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WCU-Texas MPA Teams Shine at TAPA Student Challenge Bowl, Building on National Success聽 /blog/wcu-texas-mpa-teams-shine-at-tapa-student-challenge-bowl-building-on-national-success Mon, 28 Oct 2024 14:00:00 +0000 /?p=20671

国产主播-Texas Master of Physician Assistant students once again demonstrated their skills in medical knowledge, securing second and third place at the Texas Academy of Physician Assistants (TAPA) Student Challenge Bowl.   Competing against 18 universities from across Texas, WCU’s achievement is especially remarkable as all four of its teams advanced to the second round […]

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国产主播-Texas Master of Physician Assistant students once again demonstrated their skills in medical knowledge, securing second and third place at the Texas Academy of Physician Assistants (TAPA) Student Challenge Bowl.  

Competing against 18 universities from across Texas, WCU’s achievement is especially remarkable as all four of its teams advanced to the second round 鈥 an honor only six teams earned overall, leaving room for just two teams from other schools. 

This success builds on the momentum from earlier this year when WCU-Texas made waves on a national stage at the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) National Medical Challenge Bowl. The WCU team placed in the top 4 percent nationally, showcasing their knowledge and skill in a highly competitive arena. Their strong performance at the AAPA event laid the foundation for the success at TAPA, as students and faculty continued to refine their strategies and expand their expertise.听

Professor Akisha Dave, who played a key role in preparing both the AAPA and TAPA teams, praised the students鈥 dedication and hard work. 

“It’s been an incredible journey to see our students excel at both national and state levels. Their passion for learning and teamwork has been inspiring,” Dave said. 

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Discovery of Physician Assistant Role Led WCU-Texas Student Back to Healthcare Path聽 /blog/discovery-of-physician-assistant-role-led-wcu-texas-student-back-to-healthcare-path Wed, 16 Oct 2024 14:00:00 +0000 /?p=19268

Mary D.’s path to the medical field began long before she ever stepped foot on 国产主播鈥檚 Texas campus. However, life had a way of steering her in a different direction.  Growing up in the Dallas area, Mary always knew she wanted to work in healthcare. The idea of diagnosing and helping people appealed […]

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Mary D.’s path to the medical field began long before she ever stepped foot on 国产主播鈥檚 Texas campus. However, life had a way of steering her in a different direction. 

Growing up in the Dallas area, Mary always knew she wanted to work in healthcare. The idea of diagnosing and helping people appealed to her, but she wasn’t sure which role suited her best. Like many, her initial thoughts leaned towards becoming a doctor, as that was the most familiar route. 

It wasn鈥檛 until she discovered that her family medicine provider 鈥 someone she had trusted for most of her life 鈥 was a physician assistant (PA) that piqued her interest in this profession. Mary began to research more about the PA role, finding herself particularly drawn to the lateral mobility it offered. Unlike doctors, who often specialize in one area, PAs have the unique ability to switch specialties throughout their careers. For Mary, this flexibility was not just appealing 鈥 it was essential. Life, she understood, is unpredictable, and she wanted a career that could adapt as she did. 

Transitioning from Baylor University, where she had graduated in May 2023, to the intense demands of the PA program was no small feat. Mary found the academic load challenging 鈥 鈥渙ne of the hardest things I鈥檝e ever done,鈥 she said. The constant studying, the lack of breaks, and the pressure to absorb so much information in a short time were all daunting. Yet, it was also incredibly rewarding. Mary surprised herself with how much she could accomplish, and she felt increasingly confident as she moved closer to her clinical year. 

Her classmates were another source of strength. The diversity among them created a dynamic and supportive learning environment. Though there was a healthy sense of competition, it was balanced by a willingness to help one another succeed. The professors at 国产主播 also stood out as many of them were practicing PAs, which meant they brought current, real-world experience into the classroom. Their approachability and commitment to their students set them apart from faculty she had encountered elsewhere. 

As Mary looks ahead to her future as a PA, she is determined to be a provider who truly listens to her patients. Her own experiences with health issues in high school and college have taught her the value of a compassionate, attentive provider. She recalls how PAs were often the ones who took the time to listen to her concerns, sometimes thinking outside the box to solve complex issues. This has inspired her to do the same for her future patients. 

Mary is also clear about the unique aspects of the PA profession. She appreciates that PAs are trained in the medical route, similar to physicians, but with the significant difference of not being required to complete a residency or fellowship. This allows PAs the freedom to switch specialties, a feature that Mary finds both practical and empowering. 

As she reflects on her journey, Mary feels a deep sense of gratitude 鈥 not only for the support she has received but for the PA profession itself. She often hears people praise PAs for their ability to listen and provide excellent care, and she aspires to live up to that reputation. Her advice to others pursuing this path is simple: don鈥檛 compare yourself to others, work as hard as you can, and always remember why you chose this profession. 

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WCU-Texas MPA Dean Honored with AI Champion Special Impact Award聽 /blog/wcu-texas-mpa-dean-honored-with-ai-champion-special-impact-award Thu, 10 Oct 2024 17:57:32 +0000 /?p=20439

Dr. Amy Bronson, dean of the Master of Physician Assistant (MPA) program at 国产主播-Texas, has earned the AI Champion Special Impact Award from AIMed, recognizing her forward-thinking approach to preparing PA graduates for clinical practice today and medicine in the future.   鈥淚鈥檓 incredibly honored to receive this award,鈥 Bronson said. 鈥淎I is revolutionizing […]

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Dr. Amy Bronson, dean of the Master of Physician Assistant (MPA) program at 国产主播-Texas, has earned the AI Champion Special Impact Award from AIMed, recognizing her forward-thinking approach to preparing PA graduates for clinical practice today and medicine in the future.  

鈥淚鈥檓 incredibly honored to receive this award,鈥 Bronson said. 鈥淎I is revolutionizing how we deliver healthcare. Integrating AI into our PA program allows students to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring they can provide better, more informed care to their patients.鈥 

Bronson will attend the AIMed24 Conference in November, where she will be formally recognized for her groundbreaking work. Her efforts have solidified her as a leader at the intersection of healthcare and technology, preparing future medical professionals for an AI-driven world. 

鈥淲hen I started incorporating AI into the curriculum, it wasn鈥檛 just about the technology,鈥 Bronson said. 鈥淚t was about teaching students how to leverage it responsibly and ethically, using AI not as a replacement for human care but as a tool to enhance it.鈥 

Bronson will also serve as a panelist at AIMed24, where she will discuss AI鈥檚 role in shaping the future of healthcare education. Her experience integrating AI into academic programs provides a unique perspective on how educators can adapt to new technologies while maintaining the human connection central to healthcare. 

As she prepares for her role at the conference, Bronson reflects on what this recognition means to her and her students. 

鈥淭his award is not just for me,鈥 she said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 for all the students who have embraced this emerging field, for the faculty and administration who have supported this innovation, and partners that have been pioneers in this field that have made this possible. We are all part of something much bigger.鈥 

Bronson鈥檚 colleagues and students couldn鈥檛 be prouder of her accomplishments. This award recognizes not only her innovative work but also her dedication to the future of healthcare education. 

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WCU-Texas MPA Student Pursues New Passion With Dogged Determination /blog/wcu-texas-mpa-student-pursues-new-passion-with-dogged-determination Wed, 11 Sep 2024 14:00:42 +0000 /?p=19034

Some people are bitten by the healthcare bug early, while others get bitten at veterinary clinics and decide to change careers.   “I was a vet tech for about three to four years, and then one day I got bit in the face by a dog, and I was like, ‘OK, I need to do something […]

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Some people are bitten by the healthcare bug early, while others get bitten at veterinary clinics and decide to change careers.  

“I was a vet tech for about three to four years, and then one day I got bit in the face by a dog, and I was like, ‘OK, I need to do something different,鈥” said Tori I., who is currently enrolled in the Master of Physician Assistant (PA) program at 国产主播 in Richardson, Texas. “In some ways, I am so glad I got bit on the face by that dog because it pushed me towards where I’m really meant to be.”  

After that turning point, Tori began volunteering at a local hospice, an experience that deeply touched her and solidified her desire to pursue a career in human healthcare.  

“Working with those patients just really touched my heart and soul,” she said. “After that, I was like, ‘OK, this is it for me,’ and I researched all different types of careers in healthcare, and (physician assistant) is the one I just kept coming back to.”  

Tori said she was drawn to the role of physician assistant because it offers a perfect blend of autonomy and teamwork. PAs carry significant responsibilities, such as forming differential diagnoses and treatment plans and providing clinical interventions. They also have the benefit of working collaboratively with the healthcare team to ensure optimal patient care.

Currently in her clinical year and set to graduate in December, Tori has found her passion in working with the older adult population. A standout moment for her was during her internal medicine rotation, where she worked alongside a highly knowledgeable and passionate nurse practitioner. This experience enhanced her clinical skills and confirmed her desire to work with older adults, valuing the rich life stories they share and the lessons they impart.  

Tori advises future PA students to embrace every opportunity during clinical rotations. Her motto, 鈥淔eel the fear and do it anyway,鈥 has guided her through the challenges of the program. She encourages students to jump into every learning experience, as these moments are crucial for professional growth.  

Grateful for the support and guidance from her professors and cohort at 国产主播, Tori looks forward to significantly impacting the healthcare field. She aims to build strong, collaborative relationships with her patients, improving their health outcomes and enriching their lives.  

“I feel like I’m really lucky to attend this school and this program because I can tell that all of my professors have a lot of heart, and they all really care about us,” she said. “I just have to remind myself that this school has prepared me so well to do my job and my work as a PA. It’s going to be scary (after graduation), but I think I’m going to be very ready, very prepared by my education here.” 

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WCU-Texas MPA Team Excels at AAPA National Medical Challenge Bowl聽 /blog/wcu-texas-mpa-team-excels-at-aapa-national-medical-challenge-bowl Wed, 05 Jun 2024 14:00:00 +0000 /?p=17785

The 国产主播-Texas MPA student team recently achieved remarkable success at the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) National Medical Challenge Bowl, held during the annual conference. After a rigorous and competitive event, the team placed in the top 4 percent nationally. The team comprised students Victoria I., Taylor R., Emily A., and their […]

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The 国产主播-Texas MPA student team recently achieved remarkable success at the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) National Medical Challenge Bowl, held during the annual conference. After a rigorous and competitive event, the team placed in the top 4 percent nationally. The team comprised students Victoria I., Taylor R., Emily A., and their faculty coach, Professor Askisha D. 

The AAPA Challenge Bowl is a prestigious competition that showcases the skills and knowledge of physician associate (PA) students, fostering a sense of community and professional pride among future PAs. This year, the WCU-Texas MPA team demonstrated their exceptional abilities, further reinforcing the program’s reputation for excellence.听

“The overall experience was electric and exhilarating! The first round was so nerve-racking because there was a steep cut-off from 96 initial teams to 24 teams moving forward to Round 2,鈥 Team 奥颁鲍鈥檚 Victoria I. said about the competition. 鈥淎fter that first round, though, the nerves mostly disappeared, and we were in game mode! We had a great time and were proud to represent our school and our MPA program.” 

Reflecting on their preparation, Taylor R. noted, “We competed in the Texas medical knowledge bowl last year, so I feel like that helped us gain a little confidence and we already had a strategy for practicing. Since we are in clinical rotations now, we FaceTimed each other after our shifts and would each ask questions.” 

Emily A. highlighted the extensive support the team received, explaining, “We received an immense amount of support from our classmates, faculty, and school. Our student executive board first offered us the opportunity to compete and funded our way there. Our professors helped us practice and encouraged us to be confident. Our classmates cheered us on at AAPA and made creative signs for the competition. Professor Akisha also made the drive to Houston, and even Dean Bronson was on FaceTime the whole time, cheering us on! They made the experience so much better and more fun, so thank you to all of these amazing people!” 

The AAPA Challenge Bowl is an annual national medical quiz competition organized by the American Academy of Physician Associates. It is a highly anticipated event within the PA community, typically taking place during the AAPA’s annual conference. The competition pits teams of PA students from various programs against each other in a rigorous test of medical knowledge and clinical skills. 

Structured similarly to a quiz bowl, the Challenge Bowl involves multiple rounds of questions covering a broad range of medical topics, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, clinical medicine, and medical ethics. Teams are eliminated based on their performance in each round until the final winner is determined. 

Professor Akisha D., who coached the team, said she was 鈥渉onored to witness their transformation from didactic learning to clinical practice.鈥 

鈥淥bserving their remarkable growth and brilliant performance was an incredible experience. Our WCU MPA cheering section began at the back of the ballroom among 96 competing teams and gradually moved to the front as we advanced through each round,” she said. 

The WCU-Texas MPA team’s outstanding performance at the AAPA National Medical Challenge Bowl is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support of their faculty and peers.  

Congratulations to Victoria, Taylor, Emily, and Professor Askisha D. for their remarkable achievement and for making the WCU community proud. 

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MPA Student Branched Out After Returning to Healthcare Roots /blog/mpa-student-branched-out-after-returning-to-healthcare-roots Wed, 27 Mar 2024 16:00:26 +0000 /?p=15941

When Miguel started his educational journey with a bachelor鈥檚 in exercise physiology, he expected to become a physical therapist 鈥 just like his parents. However, it didn鈥檛 take long after finishing his undergraduate degree to figure out that physical therapy was the wrong field for him. 鈥淵ou can feel it in your gut that something鈥檚 […]

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When Miguel started his educational journey with a bachelor鈥檚 in exercise physiology, he expected to become a physical therapist 鈥 just like his parents. However, it didn鈥檛 take long after finishing his undergraduate degree to figure out that physical therapy was the wrong field for him.

鈥淵ou can feel it in your gut that something鈥檚 not right,鈥 he shared. 鈥淏ut then again, it was in my gut that I still wanted to care for people, you know.鈥

Instead, Miguel went into the food service industry for a few years, taking roles as a food runner and waiter in North Carolina where he was living at the time. While being a server was not his long-term plan, he liked working directly with people and helping provide a positive experience.

Eventually, he decided to return to his healthcare roots, but this time seeking out the path that was right for his strengths and goals. 鈥淚 gave myself another chance at healthcare,鈥 he said. And it paid off! One year into the Master of Physician Assistant program at WCU-Texas, Miguel is glad to be back in the healthcare space, preparing for a career that鈥檚 full of possibilities!

Check out what he has to say!

WCU: What was your parents鈥 reaction when you told them you were switching away from physical therapy? 

Miguel: They thought it was crazy at first. There was a business to be run, and I said I always wanted to do it. But then they saw my resolve that I really wanted to do this. I understand that PAs are great leaders in the healthcare industry, so here I am now. I鈥檓 really happy about it.

WCU: Was there a moment that solidified it for you that PA was the right career choice?

Miguel: When I found out that you can switch between fields. The lateral mobility has never been like that in any other field. There鈥檚 no limits. For physician assistants, it seems like the possibilities are endless. If I do not like one field, I could go to another field a few years later.

I would like to find out if I鈥檓 still interested in orthopedics. I guess I鈥檓 interested in finding out what I鈥檓 really interested in. With these clinicals, I鈥檓 excited to find out more about myself in terms of how I want to help patients in practice.

WCU: How did you find WCU? 

Miguel: I found 国产主播 just through searching PA programs throughout the country. I was in Oklahoma at the time. It was only four hours from where I had been living. WCU was a fairly new program. We鈥檙e the second cohort in this program, so it was a blessing I was able to find this place before all the applicants found this place. It鈥檚 starting to fill up. Now it鈥檚 harder to get in.

WCU: What has your first year in the program been like? 

Miguel: It was crazy that we were able to learn all of this information, to be honest. Looking back, a year ago I knew nothing, and now I feel more confident that I could practice well going into my clinicals.

It was a lot of studying, a lot of crying 鈥 I鈥檓 not afraid to admit that 鈥 but thank God we have these friendships that we cultivated throughout the year. We helped each other and we鈥檙e here now.

WCU: How did you get through the hard moments? 

Miguel: Just look at what the prize is. We know we鈥檙e going into one of the greatest jobs America has to offer. We know the opportunities that await us, and we can鈥檛 just give up. All of us like to pick ourselves back up to push on because of the opportunity that鈥檚 ahead of us as future physician assistants. I would go on Zillow and be like, 鈥業 could own this one day!鈥

WCU: What has been the best part of the program so far? 

Miguel: The best part of being in PA school is knowing that the faculty believes in me. That鈥檚 part of why I was able to push through. They believe in me almost like they see me as a colleague, a future colleague. I just know that I鈥檓 not alone in this journey.

WCU: Anything you want to add?  

Miguel: I鈥檇 like to thank 国产主播 for the resources that they provide for us. We have counseling services. We have academic services, and we have financial services. We have a diversity clinic. We have the library where we have access to all these journals for free. Not all schools have these things in place. It鈥檚 nice to know we have this plethora of resources. 

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