Phoebe Ryan, PA25
Explore Tufts' PA Program through our students’ stories. This National Physician Assistant Week (October 6-12), we're thrilled to share the incredible journeys and experiences of our Tufts PA Program students.
These are just a few glimpses of the incredible individuals who make up our Tufts PA Program family. Their stories will inspire you, motivate you, and make you realize the boundless opportunities that await within our program.
Stay tuned this week as we share these compelling stories and invite you to be a part of the Tufts PA community!
Why did you choose to pursue this degree?
"I became interested in working in health care early in my undergraduate education but did not decide on this degree until I observed a PA a few years later. After graduating from college, my decision to pursue PA became clearer as I worked in an outpatient hospital and became part of a collaborative patient care team. I worked with providers of all degrees and came to appreciate the PA’s patient-facing role while also maintaining autonomy in their respective field. After my experience, I felt sure that the PA profession aligned best with where I saw my future career."
Why did you choose Tufts to pursue your degree?
"When choosing a program, it was important to me that I was in an environment that promotes collaboration instead of competition. I thrive in a supportive classroom where professors prioritize my learning and success. When researching Tufts, I read countless reviews directly from Tufts students that described the PA program as exactly that. Throughout my application and interview process I felt that the program respected me as an individual and prioritized getting to know me beyond my resume. Now being a part of Tufts PA program, I can see that they truly value each student."
What has your experience in the program been like so far?
"I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to be a student in the Tufts PA program and a part of its community. The environment of the classroom from the very start has been welcoming and supportive—the faculty is always enthusiastic in their teaching and passionate about our learning. I am genuinely excited coming into class each day, which is very special. My favorite aspect of the program is the relationships I have made with my classmates. We have created our own community within our class—encouraging each other to do our best and supporting each other in times of stress. What could have been an overwhelming experience has become enjoyable because of the people I am surrounded with at Tufts every day."
What is your favorite aspect about the program?
"My favorite aspect of the Tufts PA program is the patient-centered approach in which curriculum is presented. In addition to learning the intricacies of medicine in each specialty throughout the didactic year, professors consistently acknowledge the inequities in care due to social determinants of health, and the importance of understanding the patient to provide well rounded treatment. I believe recognizing these social issues and patient individuality is crucial in providing optimal care, and this begins with our education."
What is your proudest personal accomplishment while at Tufts?
"When I started at Tufts, I was really intimidated by the PA program in general. With the support of the staff and my commitment to learning throughout my time in this program, I feel so much more confident in my knowledge, skills, and capabilities as a PA. I feel really accomplished looking back at the growth I have made not only as a future provider, but also as a person."
What do you want a prospective student to know about Tufts?
"I want prospective students to know that you can do it! Starting PA school is intimidating, but Tufts PA dedicates their time and efforts to ensure that you are gaining the tools you need to provide high-quality care. You will receive an excellent education and create positive relationships that will last much longer than your 25 months at Tufts."
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