Mary D.’s path to the medical field began long before she ever stepped foot on West Coast University’s 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’t until she discovered that her family medicine provider — someone she had trusted for most of her life — 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 — 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 — “one of the hardest things I’ve ever done,” 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 West Coast University 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 — 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’t compare yourself to others, work as hard as you can, and always remember why you chose this profession.
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.
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