Medicine has fascinated me for as long as I can remember. My father, a laboratory technologist, and my mother, an ultrasonographer specializing in infertility, along with my three siblings, have always supported every dream I've pursued—including my journey to medicine. I attended the University of Maryland at College Park, majoring in kinesiology on the pre-med track while serving as a four-year member and senior-year captain of the University of Maryland Spirit Squad.
After graduating with my bachelor's degree, I began working as a registrar in the Massachusetts General Hospital Emergency Department, where I was first introduced to the physician assistant (PA) profession. I was drawn to the autonomy, knowledge, and balance I observed in the PAs I worked alongside. Initially, I wrestled with the idea of what felt like giving up my childhood dream of becoming a physician, but after many conversations with mentors, friends, and family, I reframed my mindset and wholeheartedly pursued the PA path—one I've never regretted.
Knowing my undergraduate science GPA wasn't as strong as I'd hoped, I retook three chemistry courses to strengthen my application. Though it felt like a step back at the time, that experience reminded me of the importance of truly applying myself and solidified my commitment to this career. After completing the GRE, writing my personal statement, and submitting eleven applications, I faced ten rejections before receiving one interview—from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. I went into that interview confident and hopeful, and months later, I opened a small envelope that changed everything: my acceptance letter. Overwhelmed with joy, I told my mom I would graduate summa cum laude—unaware of the challenges that still lay ahead.
Three months into my didactic semester, my program lost accreditation. Despite being told our cohort would be unaffected, we were informed that we would have to start over. I chose to finish the now-optional semester for my own learning, then, with the help of the administration, enrolled in the University of Maryland Baltimore/Anne Arundel Community College Collaborative PA Program. I brought with me a renewed determination that withstood the challenges around me, including racially based bias and discrimination. Twenty-seven months later, with the unwavering support of my peers and family, I graduated summa cum laude as valedictorian of my class, passed my boards, and began my dream job in the neonatal intensive care unit and newborn nursery.
Since then, I've expanded my experience across inpatient medicine, psychiatry, and urgent care. At times, the demands of the profession left me feeling stretched thin, but I've learned the vital importance of balance and self-care. Today, I'm grateful to have found a telemedicine role that perfectly fits my goals and lifestyle. My journey to becoming a Physician Assistant—much like my decade-long path to becoming an NFL cheerleader—has taught me the power of patience, perseverance, and community. It only ever takes one "yes" to change everything.
