Alumni Spotlight: Adrian Lopez, PA23

Students in the Physician Assistant program not only receive quality education and training that will prepare them to become practicing physician assistants, they also enjoy the support and collaboration from their peers. Students complete the program in cohorts and develop long-lasting bonds. Hear from a recent graduate, Adrian Lopez, PA23, about his experience in the program.

Why did you choose to pursue this degree?
"I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in health care, but I did not have a clearly defined path. I first learned of the Physician Assistant (PA) profession during my time as a member of the Pre-Professional Program as an undergrad. After hearing about PAs, I became interested in this career but it wasn’t really until I began my direct patient care experience that I knew becoming a PA is what I wanted to pursue. I found that the profession of a PA is one that blends qualities of my personality, medical interests, and aspiration to provide fulfilling patient care while also offering flexibility and a work-life balance."

Why did you choose Tufts to pursue your degree?
"While researching PA schools, I told myself that I was not going to let the location of the school or the distance from home keep me from attending a school if that school was the right choice for me. Throughout the application and interview process, Tufts stood out to me because everyone associated with the program (Program Director Beth Buyea, the core faculty, staff, current students, and alumni) were all so genuine, knowledgeable, and dedicated to helping their students/cohort succeed. It was unlike any other program I interviewed; I knew then this program was the right choice for me!"

What was you experience in the program like?
"My experience in the Tufts PA program was incredibly positive. I truly could not have asked for a better PA program to have been a part of. Despite the challenging curriculum and vast time commitment, my cohort and the PA program faculty/staff were always there as a support system. I made lifelong friend and mentors! Upon finishing the program, I came out feeling like the program prepared me extremely well with the tools needed to succeed as a provider."

What is your favorite aspect about the program?
"My favorite aspect of the program was how collaborative all the students were during the didactic year. PA school is already difficult—why make it more difficulty by creating a competitive environment? There was no shortage of students sharing their notes, Quizlets, tips, or any information that would help each other succeed. It was so motivating having this kind of support from them. The faculty and staff were also more than accommodating, flexible, and readily available."

What was your proudest personal accomplishment while at Tufts?
"I’m most proud of the feedback I received from patients and preceptors during my clinical rotations. The feedback I received most often was that I was able to communicate well with my patients and built a great rapport with them. As a PA, our role involves helping patient achieve their goals. I am proud that because of what I learned at Tufts, it helped me communicate with my patients in a way that made them feel comfortable and trust my recommendation!"

What did you go on to do after graduating?
"After graduating in the spring of 2023, I returned home to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan Area, where I took the boards and began the job search. Shortly after, I accepted a position as an Orthopedic Spine Surgery Physician Assistant for a private practice working both in an OR and outpatient clinic setting."

What do you want a prospective student to know about Tufts?
"I think a frequent response to each of my questions above involves how collaborative and supportive this program is, and that’s exactly what Tufts is. If you are looking for a PA program that is set up to help you succeed, then Tufts is the program you’re looking for! Not only succeed in PA school but also succeed going forward as you begin your career as a PA. Here, you will meet some of the most incredible people that will become a part of your life for longer than just the 25-month duration of the program. If I were to do it all over again, Tufts is without a question where I would choose to attend."

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