Self Assessment
Why do you think MDs are paid more than PAs?
A physicians educational background is more specialized than a PA. PAs are trained as generalist and receive on-site training at many hospitals or clinics. While a physician attends medical school and specializes during their residency. PAs are not require to specialize, although it is an option. Which more than likely increases their pay. Regardless of pay, both MDs and PAs play a very important role in patietn care. `
Tell us your opinion on the school's curriculum.
I like the idea of studying for the dual degrees together. I think it offers a nice balance of each degree. I think much of the public health will overlap with things we will see as clinicains, therefore it is fitting to study both together.
From what you understand of PA school, what part of the program will be the most difficult or you?
In college, throughout my first two years I had a difficult time asking for help when I needed it. Instead of attending study groups and working collaboratively with people in my classes I would become easily distracted studying alone. It wasn't until my junior and senior year I realized how important asking for help when you need it would be. Often times I enjoy self study, but there is benefit to working collaboratively as a group. I think not regressing into those types of patterns would be most difficult. But this class size is entirely different than my experience in college, therefore I do beleive I will have no issue discussing with faculty and other students of the class.
If we contacted your references now, what do you think they would say about you?
References: Miriam (clinic manager) - one of her hardest working staff members. The clinic recently received a Certificate of Achievement through the research I did calculating the percentage of PC patients are up-to-date with their pap smears. Anna (postdoctoral student): studious - she would often catch me in the Biomedical building early in the morning studying for classes or preparing for exams.. Leslie (PA) - encourage my passionate pursuit and determination to attend a PA school. Leslie is the only PA that works at the health center. I began reviewing patient charts for him when I was assigned to his team. Per my manager, this increased his productivity and decreased his cycle time (something the affiliate is trying to improve). I often help translate his Spanish consults, I know he appreciates that very much. Dalton (CMO) Lazarin (supervising physician) - best medical assistant she has ever worked with and will be a great clinician
What does the word "success" mean to you?
Success means the accomplishment of a goal or purpose in your life. I do not associate success to monetary gain, but the moments where I have felt the most successful was when I felt purpose or I was passionately pursuing a life goal.
What is a 'dependent' practitioner?
A PA is an example of a dependent practitioner. They are required to work with a supervising physician, however they work autonomously (seeing their own patients).
What attracted you to this program?
- Mission to help the underserved - Dedication to helping underserved, minority students - Community involvement - volunteer organizations or Student-Ran Clinic - Clinical rotation in underserved areas - MPH - understand patient care from a public health perspective, understand social determinants that affect patient health, improve analysis of scientific publications
Why this career?
- collaborative aspect, working healthcare team, independent learning in context of a team - autonomy - flexibility, diversity in career
Describe a situation in which you worked with a diverse group of people. What did you learn from this situation?
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Tell me about a time you were criticized unfairly
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Describe any travel that you have undertaken and exposure to other cultures other than your own, if any..
2016 I went to Thailand and china 2016 Egypt - I have always been very facsinated by anciet Egypt. It has been my dream to go see all the archaelogical sites. In doing so, I was able to meet a diverse group of people, and understand egyptian cultural.
What field do you see yourself in after graduation?
After graduation, I see myself working in primary care. A primary care provider is often a patient's foundation of medicine. They work across all disciplines to provide preventative healthcare to keep patients healthy and they are often the first to detect disease. Because every day in primary care is different, it is rewarding to serve all types of people and be proactively involved in a variety of problems. A primary care provider is the true embodiment of whole person healthcare. I know my mind may change once I'm in the field.
How will you keep in touch with community needs?
As a clinciain, i would like to help organize a free clinic possibly open on the weekends to help patients who are unable to make their doctor's appt throughout the week. or a late clinic open after hours to help with those 9-5 jobs. I would like to promote fundraisers and community health fairs to help promote the well being of the community.
Do you think a PA should tell a patient he/she has eight months to live?
As a pa if I truly felt someone was terminally ill I think the paitent would appreciate the honesty. Telling someone that he/she is terminally ill is a legitimate and important thing to do.Patients need to know what to plan for. They need to understand what they can expect in terms of healthcare. It is true that it's not always possible to predict with great accuracy when someone who has metastasized cancer or end-stage Parkinsonism is going to die, but you can get a pretty good estimate of whether he is not going to make it past a year, whether he will be dead in 3, 6, or 9 months Obviously a fear of any health care provider would be that a patient would become depressed or suicidal when told you have x amount of time left. However, it is important to remind them, they are not alone and will be supported in every way.
What experience have you had in community involvement that demonstrates your commitment to medicine?
As of 2016 I began volunteering with an organization called Gentiva Hospice. I visit patients at group homes and spend time with them. Sometimes they may be nonverbal. Although sometimes we cannot conversate d/t dementia, it is a nice experience to be a part of a strangers life as support. At my health center, I am very invovled - I work primarily with primary care patients, but I stay on top of them reminding them of all their preventative tests, screenings, vaccines.
Describe a situation in which you were dependable or demonstrated initiative and one in which your were not as dependable as you would have liked.
At my health center, we have a physician and a physician assistant who work on different days. The physician was having charts reviewed prior to starting their shift. Each day the team would review the patients that were coming in and discuss what each patient was due for or offer vaccinations, preventative screening. For whatever reason, the physician assistant was not getting the same courtesy of chart preparation. I discussed with my manager if it was possible to do both. And from that day forward I began preparing and review charts for the physician assistant - not only did his productivity improve, his cycle time (which is the time since the patient arrives, clinician sees patieht, and patieht leaves) improved. For our health center that was a small victory. Ex. Referral Coordinator (coworker on maternity leave) Ex. Not dependable As the size of pracitioners at the health cneter grew, I attempted to train various other people to prepare and review charts. Unfortunately not everyone continued the practice, but few did. ???
Describe your personality.
Caring Passionate - I put my heart in everything I do. energized by challenges and problems? Empathetic (build relationships with patients) Trustworthy - someone who is dependable
What qualities do you look for in a PA?
Compassion - as a pracitioner you must be able to empathize with what a patient is going through, try to understand from a patient's perspective. Passion - there will be many difficult moments in the career thatwill have you questioning if this is the right path for you, but ultimately if you are confident in your pursuit, you will not give up. Adaptability - the career is constantly changing for the better, requires providers to be adaptive to these changes. The lack of specialization also requires you adapt on-site to whatever specialty of choice.
What are your career plans and what led you to these decisions?
Currently I am in pursuit of a graduate education in physician assistant studies. In high school, I had a vague idea of pursuing a career in biology. Initially, I did not have any sense of direction in college. I chose biology because I loved learning anything related to science. It wasn't until I heard about the career of a physician assistant that I truly felt purpose in my undergraduate courses. I have always had a passion for medicine and the career was appealing to me..
Where do we stand on your list of PA school preferences?
Currently Touro CA is my top choice. It offers a masters in public health as well as pa studies which is something I was interested in doing. Considering doing an mph once I received pa, but touro would grant me the opportunity to receive both.
If you could invite 4 people to dinner, who would they be and why?
Dead or alive? Alive Obama - Thank him for the service to the country. Discuss social justice, social issues, and health care reform. Hilary Clinton - thank her for the service she has done this country 'metaphorically breaking the glass ceiling'. Discuss gender roles in society. Discuss with her next steps of my generations. Dr. Eugene Stead Jr. - show him how far the career he founded has gone; ask what visions he had for the career My paternal grandfather Roberto Lopez. I think he lead a very interesting life and I wish I had gotten to know him before he passed. Dead Charles Darwin - to discuss, show him how much his research contributed to modern day biology Hippocrates Leonardo Da Vinci - interesting conversations about science and art
What extracurricular activities were you invovled in during your undergraduate career?
During my undergraduate career, I participated in various volunteer activities as a drop in volunteer. I never really stuck to one organization, but I participated through affliate groups. Red Cross Blood Drive - promoted and helped with the blood drive Homeless Garden Project - Santa Cruz
What do you think about the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan?
Ending the 16-year conflict About 8,500 U.S. troops have remained in Afghanistan since Obama officially ended the combat mission there. More than $700 billion has been spent to fund reconstruction and war efforts in Afghanistan, and the troop increase will likely add billions of dollars more to the cost of the conflict. U.S. war effort to help the Afghan army become self-sustaining.
Solution to terrorism
Enhance Domestic and International Information-Sharing Efforts. re-engineering of minds of individuals by taking them away from the culture of violence and bringing them closer to the culture of peace.
Tell me about a time when you've been disappointed in a teammate or fellow group member. What happened? How did you approach the situation?
Giving VFC vaccine to non-eligible VFC child.. Our clinic is a participant in California Vaccine for Children. VFC helps provide vaccines for children (who are eligible) at no cost to providers. CDC receives the vaccines at a reduced cost through contracts with vaccine manufacturers.The VFC program in California is administered at the California Department of Public Health. Children who are eligible for MediCal, uninsured, underinsured qualify. The qualifications are often repeated because as a provider receiving these vaccines it is important we comply with the terms and condition - to not lose the program. I felt disappointment when a vaccine was accidentally given to a child who was not VFC eligible. The disappointment I felt was related to the fact that it jeopardizes the health center receiving VFC vaccines that help so many families. Although it was a minor disappointment, I made sure to sit down and review with the person who qualifies and who does not.. I spoke with her very calmly, and emphasized it is a little mistake, but we simply did not want it to occur again.
What do you think is the most pressing issue in medicine today?
Health care policy that benefits all Americans. Despite the evidence that a single-payer system would be a more efficient and cheaper choice, introducing it in the US is not a serious option. Trying to dismantle the current system would be a mammoth task. For one thing, it would cost a great many jobs: Health- and life-insurance companies employ some 800,000 people, with yet more employed by the medical industry just to deal with insurance companies. Though the savings from eliminating them could be invested in retraining those people for other professions, it would be difficult for any party to convince voters that it's a necessary step. At this point in history health care has become politicized: In 2016, hospitals and nursing homes contributed over $95 million to electoral campaigns in the US, and the pharmaceutical sector gave nearly $250 million. The United States tops all other countries in per capita expenditures on health care, yet the country still has nearly 45 million citizens uninsured, many with only limited coverage, skyrocketing health care costs, long-term care issues, and relatively negative health indicators. The United States should adopt a single-payer system because it would reduce the cost of care and eliminate wasteful, costly bureaucracy and provide all citizens with preventive and primary care, improving the quality of care for all. Medicine must be a public service and not a business. But universal care? That's still a big leap.
Discuss a book that you recently read for pleasure. Why did you select that book?
I am currently reading a book called 'The Power of Habit' by Charles Duhigg. NY Times best seller. helps you understand why habits are at the core of everything you do, how you can change them, and what impact that will have on your life, your business and society. Habits work in 3-step loops: cue, routine, reward. You can change your habits by substituting just one part of the loop, the routine. Willpower is the most important habit, and you can strengthen it over time Practical techniques to recognize and conscious direct the things that control our behavior Success in personal growth is completely dependent on my ability to identify, reshape and build my habits. "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit" "the difference between who you want to be and who you are is what you do" Originally, I selected this book because it intrigued me to understand how habits are triggered in my life. I wanted to get back into the habit of exercising, therefore it took sometime to understand by cue and develop the routine.
Tell me why you are interested in this program. (Touro CA)
I am interest in the Touro Joint program for several reasons: First, (working with PP, I have received invaluable exposure to the various..) my clinical experience with Planned Parenthood has exposed me to various complex issues surround health care. It's piqued my interest in public health. I would love to be educated no only as a physician assistant, but gain extensive knowledge in public health to help me understand the future populations I may be working with.. broaden my perspective on health and health care.. increase my skills to assess community factors that affect the health of patients.. Next, in my career as a physician assistant, I would like to continue to work with underserved, minority communities. The program's mission coincides with my beliefs of expanding access to care of minority and underserved communities. Also, the placement of clinical rotations is important to me when selecting a program. Touro meets the mission by encouraging students to rotate in medically underserved areas in CA. Based on the PANCE pass rates, Touro thoroughly trains their pa/mph students. The students high first-pass rate..which tells me the program is preparing their students efficiently Student-Run Clinic Volunteer Opportunities - encouraged to be involved in the community.
Do you feel that medical students receiving federal loans should spend time practicing medicine in a rural area to give society something in return?
I believe students may be encouraged to practice in rural areas, but supported in their decision to practice wherever their passion is. I wouldn't want to force anyone to work in an area they did not have in mind, and reconsider the career they choose. It would be a nice consideration to give back to the community, but each person should have a choice in where they practice.
What schools have you applied to?
I chose programs that had a mission to help the underserved, had a strong history since the start of the career, or joint programs. I applied to Oregon Health Sciences, Stanford, Davis, Duke, Touro NV, Touro, Emory PA/MPH
What experiences have you had working with diverse populations?
I chose to apply to Planned Parenthood. I luckily was interviewed and offered a position as a health service specialist at a community clinic that is part of Planned Parenthood Mar Monte, an affiliate of PPFA. On any given day, I deal with a wide demographic of patients. I witness the difficulties patients experience as they try to navigate the health care system or simply afford adequate care. A majority of the patients at the health center use Medicaid funding. For many patients who do not qualify for medical - I screen patients for state-funded programs that could help reduce the cost of their healthcare. My first hand patient care experience has given me the opportunity to understand diseases from the perspective of the patient and assist their understanding of multiple diseases. Take away-- Through Planned Parenthood, I have learned the importance of making healthcare accessible while also maintaining high quality of care. PPFA, PP Federation of America, our national organization Planned Parenthood Mar Monte is an affiliate. PPFA conducts thorough reviews q 4 years - to be sure affiliates meet the standard of affiliation required of all PP organizations.
What do you consider your strengths?
I consider myself a great listener. 90% of communication is listening. Regardless of who is speaking - patient, cowokrer, etc. I am a hard worker. when i have passion for something, I pursue it whole heartedly. This often leads to me taking on more responsibility. I often go above and beyond for patient's needs or the clinic needs.
How do you handle stress?
I do enjoy working in a fast-pace environment. I like to feel busy, stay productive and on top of the task at hand. If I am ever feeling overwhelmed, I like to take a step back and write down everything that is overwhelming me (deadlines for each project). Find a way to destress into my routine (if possible). Create a plan on how to tackle each task individually. I enjoy having deadlines. It allows me to stay on task. Creating to-do list. Keeping agenda. Able to assess objectively which task is more important at the time.
Do you prefer the idea of basic research or of working with people?
I enjoy working with people. The support, and collaboraton you experience when you are part of a team really makes a difference. Humans are social beings. I think working in a team enhances productivity, creativity, adn overall job satisfaction.
Describe your childhood and present living conditions.
I grew up in San Jose CA. I have an older sister, Jennifer. We attended public elementary, middle and high schools. Our parents were constantly taking us on roadtrips across the United States to see all the National Parks. We went to Mexico often to keep in touch with family, and for our parents to show us their experince growing up. Presnelty I am in San Jose. My parents continue to live in San Jose. I visit them throughout the week to check in and catch up. We continue to have a strong relationship.
What is your relationship with your family?
I have a good relationship with my family. they have always been very supporting of me, and always encourage me to pursue my dreams.
If you want to help people, why not social work?
I have a passion for medicine and biology. PA would let me help people while allow me to be a continuous student of medicine. That is something social work does not offer me.
How would you describe your personality?
I have a very strong work ethic. I am someone who is motivated by new challenges and problems. I embrace change. I try to always be a team player, and strive to help others and encourage others to do their best.. ?
What aspects of your life experience make you a good candidate?
I have faced tragedy, I am better able to empathize with patients struggling in their life or facing adversity. Working with PP, I have been expose to a diverse group of patients that has really helped me understand disease and infection from the patietn perspective and understand barriers that are involved in learning with health care. Through my college coursework, I have demonstrated I am a capable student, able to time manage my studies and extracurriculars. I am a compassionate person, I will always go the extra mile for family, a friend or patient.
What do you do in your spare time?
I have many hobbies and interests. On my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. We recently adopted a rescue beagle - so I try to spoil him by taking him to see the world.. I do take advantage of any opportunity I have to travel abroad or within the United States.I enjoy being outdoors - camping, exercising, hiking. I volunteer for a hospice program.
If it comes down to you and one other applicatn, why should we select you?
I have more then enough patient care hours. I have the drive and passion to be successful in this career. If you ask any clinician, physician i have ever worked with, they will say she would be an incredible pa, and a great fit to the program. Lastly, my personal career goals and the mission of the program coincide. I wantto continue to work with underserved communities, I want to be trained by a program that emphasizes the importance of expanding access to care for the underserved. I have a full understanding of what a PA's role is.
Would you like academic medicine as a career? (teaching in a PA program)
I have never considered teaching. I would be open to the possibility. I do think I can be helpful, and instructive, however I really do enough the patient care. If it were ever a position where I would still practice, I would consider teaching.
What are your specific goals in medicine?
I have several goals- short term and long term short- i would like to attend a strong PA program, graduate, and pass my boards. medium- I would like to find work in a community clinic or underserved public hospital to gain as much experience and exposure to a diverse group of patients long - I would like to continue challenging myself in any employment opportunity, continue to contribute to the community, and make a significant impact in the community with my contribution to health care.
What steps have you taken to acquaint yourself with what a PA does?
I have shadow experience with the career. I work on a team with a physicain assistant, translating primary care patients. I have taken the itnitiative to get familiar with different drugs - know the difference blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes. I go the extra mile for patients to ensure their health care needs are being met. I read AAPA newsletters regarding public health and pa profession.
Tell us something about yourself.
I have spent two years working for a community clinic (that is part of PP) in the East side of SJ. As a health service specialist there is alot of flexibility regarding what we can do for the patients, however everything is discussed and reviewed by the clinicians. We are constantly working as a team, practicing effective communication. Currently i work primarily with the PC providers at the health center - which has been an incredible learning opportunity for me. I research various chronic diseases and acute infections to help my understanding of medicine for the patients. This also allows me to help the patients with their understand of chronic or acute diseases.
Tell me something unique about yourself that is not included in your application.
I love to read. I am an avid reader - fiction, nonfiction, news, journals, blogs. I constantly keep myself engaged intellectually. ?
Why did you choose your undergraduate major? and how did your major help you..
I majored in Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology in college. In high school, the one subject that really drew me in was Biology. Therefore I decided to pursue this major. MCD biology was a good choice for me because I was able to satisfy my major requirements as well as PA prerequisites. There was overlap that benefited my career choice.
When you need counseling for personal problems, who do you talk with?
I often turn to my sister. I trust her to give me an objective standpoint of my problems and offer proactive solutions. She is always willing to listen and lend a shoulder. Even if she is living across the country.
What do you see yourself doing in medicine 10-15 years from now?
I see myself in ten years working at a community clinic in an area helping the unserved and minoritty communities. Possibly opening a free clinic..
In what course did you get your worse grade? Why?
I think all the courses I have received C's in would be my worst. First two- introduction to biology classes. I was grieving the loss of my aunt. It was a time where I could barely focus. Probably not the best time to take 2 intoduction biology courses as a freshman. Next, was biology of AIDs which inronically was a class I loved. I really enjoyed this class. I unfortunately made a silly mistake of not labeling part of my final which cost me my grade. I vowed to never be as careless again. Lastly, genetics. This was my first upper division course. The final was weighed at 50% and the two midterms 25%. I think I could be performed better, but at the times my studying was not as productive.
If you could change one thing about the PA profession, as it is today, what would you change?
I think currently there is excess need for pa all over the country. More positions needed than the number of students training in colleges and universities. Increasing the number of schools that offer a graduate program could have meet the need of the country.
If there were an accident on the freeway, would you stop and help the victims, knowing that doing so could be a malpractice suit against you?
I think morally the wrong thing to do is leave the victims. I would ensure the safety of the victims and keep them stable until EMS arrived regardless of the malpractice suit. In court I would assert myself saying I had a moral obligation to help in any way I could.
Would you practice in an inner city? What do you think happens to people who practice there (attitude changes, etc.) ?
I would practice in an inner city health center - I wouldn't know if attitudes change, but there would be a significant impact on the work you are doing and the community you are reaching at the inner city.
What do you think of the ACA in America?
I think the ACA ultimately benefited America. The ACA expanded access to care for many individuals by allowing them to qualify for insurances through their company or through the Medicaid expansion. Allowing preventative services free allowed more people to come to the health center sooner to detect disease rather than later to control it. Although it is not perfect, I think with bipartisan cooperation they could made amendments ACA to benefit the country. to the for several reasons: - slowed the rise in health care costs; made preventative care free - requires all insurance plans cover 10 essential health benefits (preventative wellness visits free, maternity/newborn care, mental and behavioral health, services and devices to help people with disability, lab tests, pediatric care (dental, vision), prescription drugs (out of pocket expenses go towards deductible), outpatient care, ER services, hospitalization -Insurance companies can no longer deny someone if they have pre-esxisting condition - eliminates lifetime and annual coverage limits - children can stay on parents health insurance until 26 - insurance exchanges - middle class (400% above poverty) receive tax that expands Medicaid - businesses with more than 50 employees must offer health insurance - lowers the budget deficit I would say 85% of the PC patients we see at the help center are on Medicaid
Tell me about a time where you faced a conflict or anger with another individual.
I think the biggest frustration I encounter on a day to day basis is the frustration patients experience trying to afford adequate care. Each week we receive new patients with all types of chronic diseases- diabetes, hypertension, who have been out of medication for several months. In example, a new patient walks in expecting refills immediately of their medications. Walking in with that expectation, I could understand where the frustration is coming when the clinician wants to order additional labs to see how their sugar level is or cholesterol level is, etc.. Often times, I find myself needing to explain to the patient that this is also part of their care. We don't want to just send medications, we want to help manage their conditions. We both want the same thing - for the patient to be healthy, have their concerns addressed and manage their chronic disease appropriately. There is no one-size fits all for chronic disease management. I think when dealing with any patient who is upset listening and letting that patient address what is bothering them is important.
How do you think your personal background will affect your practice?
I think the experience of loss I have had in my life has made me more empathetic to those struggling with chronic disease. I really try to understand what the individual is going through, and what my role in helping them is. My experience with PP has shown me the value access to quality care. The relationships forged between providers and patients, how important mutual trust and understanding is. I have also observed the support of the different teams - the collaboration of all the clinicains at the health center.
What makes you mad?
I try not to get upset. The most common occurrence I find myself upset at is injustice- towards a person, animal, etc. I try to assess the situation and if I can make a difference. I would not want to simply walk away if it happen before my eyes. If there is nothing I can do, I try to be more conscious of the lesson at hand. What it taught me about how not to treat others. and how i can conribute to end that type of injustice
What newspaper or journal do you read regularly?
I try to keep up to date in local and national news - Nyt, washington post, mercury news, huff post, cnn I like to get my news from diverse and credible sources. Jaapa - q month to remain current in news regarding the profession
What do you value most in a classmate or co-worker?
I value teammates that are dependable and as passionate as I am. If I am willing to go the extra mile, I Would like to have a teammate who supports and encourages me. I remember one day at the health center we were short staffed and it was one of those days where everyone on the schedule showed. It was time for everyone to leave, the back still needed to be closed however clinicains were still with patients. All of my team members decided to stay instead of leaving the task to one person. Even though it was a Friday night, and the last thing people may have wanted to do was spend an extra hour at work closing.
How do you handle change?
I welcome change. I believe there is always room for improvement. When I started at Planned Parenthood, they were undergoing several changes to reduce wait time, improve communication, and just ensure each patient experience was pleasant. Since I was new, I accepted these changes, although, many people were resistant. Currently, many of these changes are still incorporated in what we do at the health center - and it has only improved our productivity. I think change is sometimes necessary and it's important to see the positive outcomes that come with change.
Describe your style of communicating and interacting with others. Give an example of a situation which you had to utilize effective interpersonal skills.
I would like to see myself as an approachable person. In any employment I have held in my life, effective communication between coworkers, managers, (in my current experience with clinicians and physicians) it is also important to speak clear and concisely. Listen to others in a respectful manner. Convey empathy when dealing with patients or customers - they want to be heard and valued.. Ex. effective interpersonal skills Every day at Planned Parenthood we convene as a team - composed on 2 Health Service Specialist, 1 clinician or physician. Each day we help assess the patient's concern before the patient sees the provider. After speaking with the patient, we discuss with the provider exactly what the patient expects from the visit - what they would like addressed.. After the clinician evaluates the patient, we relay that information to the patient. Sometimes it may be as simple as a yeast infection, other times it is explaining to the patient that the exam has the clinician suspicious of a sexually transmitted infection and we offer presumptive treatment. Assessing a patient's response and body language requires skill. We want every patient to leave with a good experience and in this kind of work sometimes it involves telling patients bad news. Ex. Presumptive treatment Ex. HIV patient.
What are the negative aspects of medicine from a professional standpoint?
I would say a negative aspect of medicne I have experienced is the patients that slip through the cracks of a broken health care system. Often times at the health cetner, patients are trying to make conscious efforts to control their disease and want to be counseled on ways to do so, but do not have adequate care or enough money to return for follow ups. I think that is difficult to see. As much as you want to help, they eventually become less motivated to take care of their health because of the barriers and costs they face.
If you could start your college career all over again, what would you do differently?
If I could repeat the first two years of college, I would focus more on academics. Although, I know grief was partly responsible for my lack of focus - if I redirected myself to school it could have helped with the grieving process. I am not proud of the C's I have earned on my transcript. I know I am capable of a better academic performance. I think I would have liked to join more clubs, become more involved with the school. I wonder if I did career research and went into school with the idea of pursuing physician assistant it would have improved the outcome. Having a goal in mind makes a difference.
What will you do if you do not get into PA school?
If I do not get into PA school this round, I think I would like to apply for a MPH to show schools that I am able to handle a graduate level course work. The graduate degree will help.. understand hc policy, epidemiology, and needs assessment of patients.. understand social determinants that could affect a patient's health.
Describe how you can effectively deal with someone in crisis.
In my personal statement for Pa school, I briefly mentioned a story about a anaphylactic patient. He presented to the health center without an appointment, spoke with the front desk regarding being bitten by an animal. Quickly I escorted him to a room in the back of the health center. He was panicking because this was his first anaphylactic reaction to a bee sting. His face was very swollen, and he had pruritic rashes all over his body. I listened to his concerns and relayed the information to the MD - who gave the patient Benadryl and was preparing the epinephrine. All the while I directed staff to call an ambulance (ordered by the MD). ???
What stimulated your interest in medicine?
Initially what drew me to medicine was my mother's experience with colon cancer. I really admired the way her care team took care of her. She recovered successfully and is now 10 years in remission. My passion later grew taking classes in physiology and anatomy in college. After college I truly observed the career at my clinic, it was there I truly felt that I was on the right path. And this career was the right one for me.
Why do you think so many people want to be PAs?
It is a good career option. Attend a masters program 2-3 years, be able to work right after passing boards. High demand for pas throughout the US. Autonomy, work in collaboration with other health care professions.
Who would you say is the most influential person in the last 100 years?
MLK JR BARACK OBAMA BILL GATES
Is medicine a rewarding experience? Why?
Medicine can be a rewarding experience. Together you work with patient towards a common goal - their health. When the results are met, it is a shared reward for both of you. I recall a diabetic boy would was extremely noncompliant with diet. The provider finally pulled him asside and explained to him the precautions of his uncontrolled diabetes (how it could affect his future), we referred him to diabetes education where they could continue to teach and monitor him until he was controlled. His blood sugar is now very controlled and that was an experience we all celebrated.
What experience do you have the qualifies you to join our program?
My two years at Planned Parenthood has exposed me to a variety of chronic or acute conditions. This has allowed me to expand my knowledge of clinical medicine. I have taken on serveral roles at teh health cetner - primary care coordinator, pc trainer, etc. f you were to ask any of my coworkers about me - they would say i am dependable and helpful. I always encourage others to confide in me if they need help or do not know..
How would your plans differ if you knew that US was going to have a nationalized health care system?
No. I believe a nationalizd health care system would increase coverage for americans - who would need providers to follow for preventative and primary care services.
Have you an alternative career plan?
No. PA is my career plan. No matter how long it takes.
What were your most memorable accomplishments in your college career? Situation/Task, Approach, Response
ONE My junior year I interviewed for positions at multiple labs and ultimately decided on Forsberg lab. Research focused on understanding the molecular determinants of hematopoietic stem cell fate to prevent and treat genetic or acquired disorders. I am proud to have been part of of the research community on campus. My experience in the Forsberg lab is probably my favorite memory and accomplishment in college. It was a privilege to work closely with faculty, be assigned my own research project, become independent in the lab (performing my own experiments). It was an experience where I truly experienced personal growth and confidence and that translated to my transcript. I learned better time management, ironically, because I was putting a lot of time into lab. TWO highest score on Endocrinology exam. THREE Becoming a mature human, and better student????
What two things do you consider your greatest strength?
ONE - passion, strong work ethic? compassion TWO - inquistive nature
What two things do you consider your greatest weakness?
ONE care too much? work too hard Two stubborn? I don't like to ask for help
What do you think about the ongoing conflict in Syria?
On the surface, the conflict began in 2011 with the Arab Spring. Syrians, like other peoples across the region, rose up peacefully against their authoritarian government. Mr. Assad cracked down violently. Communities took up arms to defend themselves, then fought back in what became a civil war. Some soldiers joined the rebels, but not enough to win. Long before the conflict began, many Syrians complained about high unemployment, widespread corruption, a lack of political freedom and state repression under President Bashar al-Assad. The group has its roots in two earlier wars and the foreign occupations that followed: the 1979 Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and the American-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. A key factor has been the intervention of regional and world powers, including Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia and the United States. Their military, financial and political support for the government and opposition has contributed directly to the intensification and continuation of the fighting, and turned Syria into a proxy battleground. Iran, Russia, Turkey - Assad US, Saudi Arabia - Rebels, Kurds Five million people - most of them women and children - have fled Syria, Almost 85% of Syrians live in poverty
What do you do when you are not in school or work?
Outside of work, I do volunteer once a week with Gentiva Hospice whenever I am assigned a hospice patient. I spend time with the patient - get to know them, offer respite for family. In my free time I try to stay current with health news, world news, local news... I de-stress through exercise. I enjoy reading novels. This year I have started reading more fiction - When breath turns to air, the outliers, How habits are created, MORE EXAMPLES? I spend time/hiking with my dog. He's a rescue beagle. Spend time with family. I enjoy traveling - locally and abroad. I think travel is important for many people to be exposed to different cultures and different types of people. I want to continue to expose myself to and provide care to patients of all socioeconomic statuses, ages, and cultural groups.Exposing myself to different regions throughout the world has allowed me to better understand how to best provide individualized health care to people of different cultures. In my future career, I would like to contribute to expansion of healthcare in developing countries by participating in medical missions abroad. My first hand patient care experience has given me the opportunity to understand diseases from the perspective of the patient, assist their understanding of chronic or acute diseases, and help patients feel comfortable navigating the healthcare system.
What do you think the major differences between a PA and a physician? What about NP and PA?
PA vs. MD PA education is a graduate probably commonly consisting of 27mos, 1 year didactic and 1 clinical year Obviously Touro's program is different than the average PA program since it offers both MPH and MSPAS to ALL its students. MD consists of 4 years of medical school, and several years of residency ranging depending on the specialty chosen. An MD does not require a supervising MD. PA do require a supervising MD - although they do work autonomously. Biggest difference being MD can perform surgeries while a PA can assist. NP vs. PA NP typically receives an bachelors as a registered nurse - that requires clinical rotations. They then apply towards a graduate degree as a nurse practitioner. Unlike PA, they are taught a patient-centered model of medicine whereas MD and PA are taught a disease-centered model - focused on biologic/pathologic aspects of health in assessment, diagnosis and treatment. NP are authorized in 21 states to practice without supervision of MD. In other remaining states supervision based on state laws.. Overall MD, PA, NP all assess, diagnose, treat patients.
If your best friends were to describe you, what would they say?
Silly - I try to see the light in difficult situations. Ambitious - once I set my mind to something, I pursue it wholeheartedly. Intelligent Reliable - I will always be there as a shoulder for comfort, or just something to listen to their stuggles and problesm.
Global warming
Solution: reduce heat-trapping emissions put in the atmosphere Individually: reduce carbon emission (drive electric, acknowledge climate change in real) Nation/World: expand renewable energy, energy less dependent on coal & fossil fuels, increase fuel efficiency, decrease oil use, build clean economy (invest in energy technologies), reduce tropical forest deforestation. Requires: bipartisan effect Meanwhile extreme drought, storms, heat, wild fires, and weather disasters will continue.. Impact on human health - hotter temperatures put more people at risk for dehydration, heat stroke, heart attack, and heat related illnesses. The ozone pollution will exacerbate lung diseases (asthma) and make it difficult to breathe in otherwise healthy individuals.
How would your teammates describe you? How would your professors describe you?
Teammates: Leader Self starter, organizational skills Passionate Approachable Patient Knowledgeable - willing to share knowledge I think my coworkers would describe me as a leader. Frequently I take initiative to perform whatever task needs to get done, I do not need to be told. I do a good job of delegating responsibilities between the team. I am very passionate in my pursuit of this career, all my coworkers know I am passionate about the work we do at PP. I think they would describe me as approachable: always available to help or explain how to do something/protocol, etc. I never want people to feel like they cannot ask questions. I invite questions. They may also describe me as patient. I am always willing to take the time to help patient's with paperwork (if they cannot read or write), answer any additional questions regarding their care, review lab results with them. My first two years of college, I did not have the opportunity to meet many of my professors. In the UC system, your classes consist of hundreds of students. Once you get to your upper divisions class sizes range from hundred to fifty students. I really got to know my Human Physiology professor. I enjoyed her teaching style very much - which led me to take an additional course with her (Endocrinology). She would probably be the professor that knew me the best - I would think she would describe me as studious and curious - at her office hours I would frequently participate asking questions regarding topics we discuss in class this week. She was a professor I originally had in mind for a LOR, however she was retiring that year - it would have been difficult to stay in touch. However she knew I was pre-PA, she encouraged me to continue challenging myself. Professors: Studious: Inquisitive: Curious: Passionate: Intelligent - ex. second highest score on midterm..
What do you feel is the purpose of PA school?
The purpose of PA school is to train clinically competent, compassionate PAs that implement evidence-based preventative medicine. In doing so, we increase access to quality care throughout the United States, but this extends to increasing access to care for all populations. Including underserved, minority populations.
What do you hope to gain from this experience? Interview or PA school?
Well from the interview.. an acceptance.. LOL But in all reality, I appreciate the opportunity to be interviewed before the commitee and getting closer to accomplishing my life goals. From school, I hope to become a clinically competent, compassionate physician assistant.. I believe Touro's Joint program offers me vast professional growth and educational growth. It will properly prepare me to work with underserved and minority communities...
If you had a patient with a language barrier, how would you assist that patient?
When dealing with a language barrier, there are other things to consider about this patient. The patent also comes from a different culture and might have a different understanding of health or health care. It would be important as a practitioner to educate yourself regarding various cultures, ethnic backgrounds, and religions to prepare.. and better understand the patient. I would do my best to find a translator - either through the translating services provided or by staff. If the patient is a spanish speaker, regardless of dialect I would be able to understand and communicate with the patient. If there was a family member who spoke english I would ask the patient privately if they would allow the family member to translate (not if it was a child or minor). I would like to ensure the patient is comfortable with the person in the room discussing their health. It would be important to watch for nonverbal body language to make sure the patient is comfortable and feels like their concerns are being addressed.
How do you go about making important decisions?
When making important decision, I like to take time to really think thing thoroughly. Sometimes writing out pros, cons, fears, expectations - making sure these decision align with my life goals. I think the rushed decision may be one that most people regret. When I was deciding which college to attend, my family was going through hardship. My aunt had metastatic breast cancer and the prognosis was less than a year. I chose to stay close to my family and support them through the hardship. I think if I didn't get that extra time - being able to come home so easily on the weekends, I would feel less closure with the loss. And feel more heartache not being able to be there for the family.
What are the best and worst things that have ever happen to you?
Worst - losing my aunt to breast cancer. first loss in the family. Best-
Have you applied to any other programs?
Yes, I have applied to a total of 7 schools. What I was really looking for in a program was mission of dedication to underserved, clinical rotations in underserved areas, and high first pass rate of boards (tells me the program is preparing the students effectively). I know competition to get into pa school is only getting more difficult and I wanted to maximize my chances for acceptance to a program I know would allow me to succeed in this career.
There are many applicants as qualified as you. Why should we pick you? What do you have to offer our school?
You can do the work and deliver exceptional results You will fit in beautifully and be a great addition to the team You possess a combination of skills and experience that make you stand out from the crowd Hiring you will make him look smart and make his life easier I know if given the opportunity I will exceed everyone's expectations. I deserve a position in the upcoming class because of the have a immense passion for health care and medicine that I think would go hand in hand with master's in public health and pa studies. This school is my top choice because of the dual masters in public health. I am passionate to go deeper into medicine by exploring various topics in public health to become a better provider. ....
Tell me about a time when you failed. How did you handle failure?
ex. C's in classes. When I began college, I told myself I would try the best I could meaning not giving up, getting good grades, etc. Unfortunately I let outside factors affect my performance throughout my first two years in school. Grieving the first loss of a family member, placing more significance in working part-time than school, or just not balancing social and school life. Even though I never failed a class, receiving a C grade is a failure in my eyes. It was disappointing. I felt like I lost confidence in my abilities as a student. Then my junior year I decided I would time manage differently, at the time I had a new focus - going to PA school. That motivated me to stay focused and perform better. I developed better study habits. It also taught me an important lesson of not giving up even when you have lost some confidence in your abilities. ...
How do you plan to finance PA school?
federal loans
What else do you want us to know about you before you leave?
love to read?
Why PA school?
my mother's personal experience. In college, while i wanted to pursue a career in medicine I didn't know what type of career would be best. When my sister introduced me to the career of a PA practicing medicine with supervision and within a team (enjoy collaborating). I wanted to learn medicine through a disease-centered curriculum rather than patient-centered (like NPs). I enjoyed the idea of attending a graduate program for 2-3 years then getting out into the work force. My clinical experience really just solidified my pursuit of this career. I love working with a diverse group of individuals and helping a diverse group of patients.
If you could change one aspect of your personality with a snap of your fingers, what would you change?
perfectionism - I am a little bit of a perfectionist. I often feel at times if I am not doing the task, it will not be performed correctly. This also causes me to take on a lot more work than is necessary since I have a hard time saying no. .. care too much - Often times I feel like I am getting too involved. I'm often trying to go above and beyond to ensure all the patient's needs are being met. It is draining. However, it is rewarding.
