Avery Tinsley, PA27

April 29, 2025

Meet Avery Tinsley, PA27, a Tufts University Physician Assistant student whose unique journey—from teaching science during the pandemic to leading statewide healthcare initiatives—reflects a deep commitment to equity, patient-centered care, and academic excellence. In this Q&A, Avery shares what inspired her to pursue the PA profession, why she chose Tufts, and how her background is shaping her future in medicine.

What inspired you to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant?

"After six years of diverse professional experiences, the moment I learned about the Physician Assistant (PA) profession felt like the perfect opportunity to bind all my multidisciplinary experiences into one, impactful career. I have worked as a medical assistant, educator, value-based care account manager, and consultant for systemic Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) initiatives. Through these experiences, I developed a passion for supporting patient success, an understanding of the intersectionality of healthcare, and a desire to drive impact at scale."

Why did you choose Tufts University for your PA education?

"I chose Tufts because of its undeniable commitment to the success of its students. The faculty of this program expresses a tangible energy when speaking about Tufts PA and their passion for seeing their students flourish as practicing PAs. Furthermore, the program’s alumni shared how the values of competency, humanism, cultural humility, professionalism, and social responsibility are incredibly salient in all of your experiences as a PA student here. I can now attest to this as well."

Can you tell us a little about your background before joining the PA program?

"My first career was a medical assistant at a private psychiatric practice in Los Angeles, CA. There, I developed a passion for supporting patients throughout the length of their health journeys. Following this experience, I served as an educator, teaching 6th-grade science in the Northern Virginia area. Teaching during the pandemic exacerbated how interconnected healthcare accessibility and student success are. This shaped my decision to bridge my aforementioned passion with a focus on equity-centric advocacy work. Therefore, I transitioned my career into the space of healthcare technology, where I had the opportunity to drive impact at scale as I supported initiatives to roll out value-based care models for health systems and statewide social determinants of health projects. All of these diverse professional experiences played a unique role in my decision to go to PA school."

What has been your most memorable moment during your time at Tufts so far?

"Being nominated and selected to serve as President of our Student Senate by my peers was an incredibly special moment for me so far. It was a huge honor and one I am very grateful for."

What kind of support or mentorship have you received so far?

"While we have designated faculty advisors, each and every faculty member has served as a go-to resource for us throughout this challenging first semester. Your designated advisor meets with you to ensure you have the resources and support you need to feel prepared and successful. Furthermore, we have the second-year PA student peer tutors and mentors who are an incredible resource for helping us navigate our most challenging courses."

If you had to describe the Tufts PA program in three words, what would they be?

"Student-Centered. Passionate. Rigorous."

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