Colin Cummings, PA22
Students choose Tufts because of our deeply connected network, inclusive community, and commitment to fostering your development as an individual. Hear from alum Colin Cummings, PA22, about his experience in the Physician Assistant program.
Why did you choose to become a Physician Assistant (PA)?
"I spent several years after finishing my undergraduate degree working in the outdoor industry, combining my love for adventure travel, education, and team building with newfound interests and skills in Wilderness Medicine. From then on I knew I wanted to pursue a career that would allow me to expand on those interests, but with medicine at its core. When I learned more about the Physician Assistant profession— the rigorous medical training it requires, the opportunity to practice in clinical and educational settings, the team-oriented nature of the job, and the flexibility to continue to engage in passions outside of work—I knew I wanted to pursue a degree in PA studies."
Why did you choose Tufts?
"Given personal and family needs, I narrowed my PA school search to the Greater Boston Area. As I learned about the many local programs, Tufts clearly stood out to me as the best fit. The Tufts PA Program offers guaranteed placement at some of the best clinical rotation sites in the area, their history of PANCE pass rates and new-graduate job placement are near perfect, and their libraries, labs, and simulation center are state-of-the-art. But above all, I chose to pursue my degree at Tufts because of the overwhelming sense of community and support that faculty, current students, and alumni shared with me during the application and interview process. They all exuded enthusiasm for the program and a deep sense of an almost family-like environment in which I knew I'd be welcomed and thrive."
What was your experience in the program like?
"Each of the attributes that drew me to the Tufts PA Program proved to be true during my time there. Didactic Year was exacting but rewarding. It is truly amazing how much you learn in a single year. Even during its toughest moments, I felt supported by faculty and peers and I formed friendships that will last a lifetime. Clinical Year was daunting and nerve-wracking but exciting and fast-paced. My growth as a provider over the span of that year is remarkable. Entering the job market as a graduate from Tufts felt like a leg up, as I heard repeatedly from prospective employers how much they value Tufts graduates."
What was your favorite aspect about the program?
"As I've alluded to already, my favorite aspect about the Tufts PA Program was the community. Tufts attracts a group of diverse, hard-working, supportive, and fun-loving students and faculty who value teamwork and personal relationships over competition. PA school is incredibly challenging, and it's those relationships and support networks that allowed me to get through it successfully."
What was your proudest personal accomplishment while at Tufts?
"Upon graduating from the Tufts PA Program, I was awarded by the faculty with the A. Wells Ziegra Compassionate Care Award. To be recognized like that for my desire to help others and eagerness to learn and share new knowledge was a truly proud moment for me."
What did you go on to do after graduating?
"I started job searching shortly before graduating. After graduating and taking the PANCE exam, I took a few months off for my wedding and honeymoon. In that time I also accepted a job in a PA-led Medical-Surgical ICU at Brigham & Women's Hospital. I started there in the summer after graduating and have been loving every minute of it since!"
What do you want a prospective student to know about Tufts?
"Know that if you feel like you are struggling or you feel a sense of Imposter Syndrome, you are not alone and there are people and resources at Tufts to help you. You will get through it and I guarantee you'll have fun along the way!"
Learn More About the PA Program