Class & Student Profiles

Why did you choose to attend Northwestern?

The program stood out in a lot of different aspects. From day one, all of the staff I interacted with really made you feel like you were welcomed into a family. From the interview process until now, the faculty and staff were supportive, and you can tell that every aspect of the program has a purpose and is conducive to your education. Here at NUPA the small class size and the fostered collaborative environment is something you really benefit from as a student. I also love that we have guest lectures from experts in their clinical field teaching you the most updated and practical information they use daily. Our program is so well connected with Northwestern Memorial Hospital and the opportunities are endless. Of course, the location of our program is as good as it gets being centered right by Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, the lakefront, and the delicious food scene that Chicago’s downtown has to offer.

What are your impressions of the curriculum so far? Favorite class?

The curriculum is well thought out and conducive to our learning. The organ system-based curriculum is such an organized way to learn that helps you to slowly put everything together. Every class on our schedule has a clear purpose and is valuable for our advancement as healthcare professionals. All of the professors are passionate about the content they are educating you on, and it truly feels like you are learning from the best. Every day I walk out of our classes with more knowledge than when I walked in, and although it can be a challenge, the excitement of all the progress and learning that happens daily is very rewarding. If I have to choose one my favorite class so far is Anatomy. I love learning about the human body and then having the opportunity to make vivid connections in the cadaver lab.

What advice would you have for an applicant considering NUPA?

Honestly, there are a lot of features from Northwestern’s PA program that you can't find in other programs. The PBL curriculum is one that prepares you to think efficiently and on your toes which helps you be prepared for clinical scenarios that you will be facing daily in the clinic. The program has strong mentorship opportunities from having a second-year student that is directly paired with you as well as a practicing Northwestern medicine PA mentor, helping you feel supported and guided every step of the way. Last but not least I would say that the energy you get from the faculty and staff here at Northwestern is unmatched and only gets better as you interact with them more and more throughout the year.

Why NUPA?

On my path to becoming a PA, I hoped to develop confidence in my own medical knowledge and clinical decision-making, while retaining the humility to know when I should turn to my physician colleagues for guidance. At the Northwestern University PA Program, I was excited by the opportunity to take responsibility for my own learning and to refine my problem-solving skills during the Problem Based Learning (PBL) sessions, while beginning to work side by side with MD students, PA students, and medical professionals at the Education Centered Medical Home (ECMH), all during the didactic year. And though I was originally drawn to NUPA because of these unique educational opportunities, it was the welcoming, supportive, and inspiring admissions team that fully convinced me that this was going to be the program I chose to entrust with my PA education.

How would you describe the class culture/vibe at Northwestern?

Luckily, I have found that the class culture at Northwestern has been overwhelmingly collaborative and supportive. From the top down, I truly believe that the faculty, second-year students, and our cohort want to see everyone succeed. Mentorship is a strong theme at NUPA, and I have felt no shortage of advice, reassurance, and confidence from my PA-S2 “big sibling”, my faculty advisor, or my friends within the cohort. Most importantly, I love that I can trust my fellow classmates to be my educators in PBL, because everyone has taken seriously their responsibility for presenting quality educational presentations for the benefit of the whole group. Without a doubt, I know that I can rely on my classmates to positively enhance my academic experience at NUPA, and that I don’t have to worry about competition getting in the way of growth.

What are your favorite things about Chicago?

Chicago is definitely the largest metropolitan area I have ever lived in, and I am loving it so far! I live about five miles from campus, and I appreciate that the bike and train infrastructure has made it no problem, and even sometimes quite pleasant, to get to and from class. Living in a West Town neighborhood and going to school in Streeterville has afforded me the ability to appreciate many different nooks of the city. I’ve had the opportunity to sample many of the restaurants, live music venues, farmer’s markets, museums, and greenspaces both near and far, and I’m happily overwhelmed knowing that I will never exhaust of the experiences that Chicago has to offer.

Why NUPA?

I was drawn to the Northwestern PA program for several reasons, a major one being its emphasis on training PAs who will provide high quality patient-centered care to diverse patient populations, which aligns with my goals as a future clinician. I wanted to attend a program where I would be challenged to understand not only the physiological aspects of medicine, but also the social determinants of health, and how they impact the lives of each patient both inside and outside of the clinic. I was also drawn to the Education-Centered Medical Home program, which gives me the unique opportunity to work with a team and see patients in a clinical setting on a regular basis throughout the program.

What is an average day like for you?

An average day for me is mostly spent in class or studying with my classmates in small groups. There are several great spots to study on campus, and some great areas to take breaks as well–you might catch me playing the keyboard in the student lounge every now and then!

What are your impressions of the curriculum so far? Favorite class?

So far, my favorite class has been patient assessment. I love having the opportunity to apply what I’ve learned in class by practicing my clinical skills with my classmates and standardized patients. Learning these skills is one of the most important things to do as a future clinician and our instructors do a great job at giving us the guidance we need!

Tell us about your experience in PBL.

PBL has challenged me to synthesize knowledge learned in the classroom by immediately applying it to real patient scenarios, a truly unmatched learning experience. I leave our PBL sessions in amazement of how much I learned in such a short time. Aside from that, it's been incredible to have the opportunity to collaborate with my classmates and form close relationships. I don't know where I'd be without PBL!

Why NUPA?

Where to start?! Having a small class size and the opportunity to learn from expert clinicians at an academic medical center were important to me, but my incredible interview experience really drew me in! It was clear to me from the start that the faculty and community at NUPA are highly invested in the success of their students, and it's living up to the hype!

Compared to your expectations coming in, what has surprised you since starting at Northwestern?

I didn't anticipate having the opportunity to learn from so many clinicians who are renowned in their fields through guest lectures! These have been some of my favorite lectures we've had, and I really think they help us to further integrate our classroom and PBL learning to prepare us for patient care. I'm also so happy to have made incredible friends so far!

Compared to your expectations coming in, what has surprised you since starting at Northwestern?

Being from both a low income and first-generation background, I was not sure what to expect going into a master's program. While the days have been long and the studying demanding, I have not felt as alone as I thought I initially would. While my peers come from all different backgrounds, I truly feel like both my class, the classes above, alumni and professors all have my best interests at heart. I could not have hoped for more out of a PA program.

Why NUPA?

NUPA hit all of the key things I was looking for in a PA school! From proximity to my family, opportunities presented by the school's location in downtown Chicago, and to the unique PBL learning style I was familiar with from my days as an undergrad. Coming from a smaller suburban town in Wisconsin, and then a rural undergraduate university, I wanted to make sure I would could get to know my peers, as well as had access to my professors. NUPA has managed to hit all of the above, and many more for myself.

How would you describe the class culture/vibe at Northwestern?

As a class, we spend most of our waking hours together. While many may find that daunting, I think that has made my experience (and my classmates) more fruitful and fulfilling. Our unique backgrounds and strengths are highlighted in our small cohort size, and we learn from each other daily. Along with this, we have shown solidarity in our failings and success. PA school is challenging, but having others to talk things out with, fall back on and share success with makes it easier. 

Why NUPA?

NUPA was my first choice for so many reasons. Seeing how passionate the current students and faculty were about the program only furthered my interest. The PBL curriculum truly stood out, and as someone who enjoys discussing through topics with others, I was sure it was how I wanted to learn during didactic year. Being at an academic medical center in the heart of a city was also important to me. I appreciate that we get the opportunity to learn and practice alongside the very population I hope to serve, as well as be taught by professionals you could have the chance to work alongside in the future. 

What is an average day like for you?  

I am an early bird for sure, so if I can get a morning workout before class, I always try to! I am obsessed with my Nespresso, so I don’t leave my apartment without a cup of coffee before heading to the bus stop! Since I live in West Loop, my commute is just a short bus ride into Streeterville for classes. After class, I usually head to the library a few days out of the week for a change of scenery during the afternoons before heading back home. I really enjoy cooking and attempting new recipes, so I will try to do that as much as possible to round out the evenings and mix in some Netflix too if I can! 

What are your impressions of the curriculum so far? Favorite class? 

There are times when it starts to feel overwhelming, but then you remember to “trust the process” and usually by the end of the week, whatever confusion I had is cleared up or explained in-depth during a lecture. It is a lot of information, but nothing feels better than finally figuring out the tough concepts with your classmates and looking back at how much you’ve already learned! I think Clinical Laboratory Medicine might be my favorite class – It’s really nice to be able to connect what you’re learning in all your other courses and to see how it will apply in clinical practice moving forward. 

Why NUPA?

I wanted to go to Northwestern for so many reasons, but what drew my attention the most was the problem-based learning (PBL) style curriculum! I loved the idea of working with a small group of classmates each week to solve patient cases while learning from the amazing faculty. I come from a sports background, and this style of learning is similar to working with teammates to reach a common goal which I really enjoy. In addition to the PBL curriculum, I liked the small class size at Northwestern because I can get to know each of my classmates and faculty members very well. Additionally, having the ability to complete 4 elective rotations in such a diverse city within a highly ranked academic medical center was a huge bonus because there are so many opportunities to learn from high-quality providers.

Compared to your expectations coming in, what has surprised you since starting at Northwestern?

I was nervous before starting at Northwestern because of what I had heard about PA school in general and how difficult it is. I was pleasantly surprised once I started, though, and the faculty and classmates have exceeded my expectations! We truly are a family here at Northwestern, and I have loved getting to know my classmates and collaborate with them as well as the faculty. I did not know what to expect in terms of the curriculum, but I have surprised myself with how much I have learned in such a short amount of time. The faculty do a great job at teaching us critical thinking skills and help us reason through difficult cases which is great practice for when we start seeing patients.

What are your favorite things about Chicago?

I love how Chicago has something for everyone to enjoy! I am an active person who enjoys the outdoors and loves water, so summer in Chicago has been amazing. I love walking/running along the lakeshore path and walking through Lincoln Park. I am a short walk from the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Lincoln Park farmer’s market which is a huge bonus! I have visited many of the museums, eaten at great restaurants, explored various neighborhoods, and attended Cubs games, but there is still so much more I want to do! The beauty about Chicago is you will never run out of new things to try. I am excited to continue exploring the city in the years to come.

Why NUPA?

Ever since high school, Northwestern has been my dream school. Although the list could go on, I chose NUPA because of its PBL curriculum, small class size, 4 elective rotations, amazing location in the heart of Chicago, medical Spanish course, and affiliation with one of the best hospitals in the nation. I also had the most wonderful interview and tour experience with friendly and welcoming faculty and students which helped seal the deal!

What advice would you share with an applicant considering the Northwestern University PA Program?

Start preparing as early as you can! This includes making sure you have all of the required prerequisite courses, patient care hours, and knowing NUPA's goals and mission to make sure the program is a good fit for you. I was not aware of this when I applied, but I would also consider applying for Northwestern Medicine's Pre-PA Internship. Interns have the opportunity to sit in on lectures and a PBL session. Finally, try to relax as much as you can during the interview. They truly just want to get to know who you are as a person!

Tell us about your experience in PBL.

Although PBL was a bit of a rollercoaster ride in the beginning, I've come to appreciate it for helping me to continue developing my critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills. Since we look at a patient case every week, I am reminded of how the knowledge and skills we learn in lectures and lab are applicable in real-life situations and scenarios. Researching topics and teaching them to fellow classmates also helps to more actively engage with and demonstrate a deeper understanding of what we're learning.

Compared to your expectations coming in, what has surprised you since starting at Northwestern?

Prior to starting PA school, I was not sure of what expectations to come in with. I came from a very large university, where it was harder to form relationships with peers and faculty. It was even more difficult to reach out for help when needed. However, coming to a program with a smaller class size has been a game-changer. The collaboration between students and faculty brings a strong sense of community. Additionally, the faculty shows how much they truly care for the success and wellbeing of their students. Having faculty reach out to you to discuss progress or performance is something I didn’t realize I appreciated very deeply. PA school can be difficult at times, so knowing that everyone around you is there to support you is reassuring to your decision to attend that program. NUPA has exceeded my expectations I didn’t know I had, and I am happy with the choice I made in coming here.

Tell us about your experience in PBL.

Prior to coming to NUPA I had no experience in Problem-Based Learning (PBL). During the application process I read about other students enjoying this style of learning, so it made me eager to learn more about it. Now having experienced PBL, I recognize it as one of the most essential methods of learning in my PA education. It allows me to put into practice what I am learning in lectures while also encouraging me to think beyond the box. It serves as a reminder of how much I have learned in a short period of time, while also allowing me to see opportunities of growth in my knowledge. It also prepares us to work in teams for the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of a patient, much like the interprofessional work that will occur in the healthcare setting. Overall, I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity of attending a program where PBL is such an integral part of the curriculum.

Why NUPA?

I chose NUPA because I found that it embodies the values, missions, and goals I want in a program that will one day help me become a successful PA. The program not only focuses on its students through an academic lens but also holistically which results in a diverse cohort. This shows me that not only academic success is valued but also individuality. Secondly, the quality of education is remarkable. Problem-based learning enforces the critical thinking skills needed for our future careers as physician assistants. Furthermore, the IPE activities throughout the program are also points I found to be distinct and appealing. Working directly with students of other professions is the best way to prepare us for the field. The resources the program has in regards to well-established hospitals available for the rotational year are great sources of opportunities. However, what truly set my decision in stone was my experience with the faculty and alumni during my interview. Everyone made me feel very welcomed, comfortable and seen. I didn’t feel like just another applicant to interview, they truly wanted to get to know me as a person and see if we were a good fit. Coming to NUPA was the best decision I could’ve made!

Tell us about your experience in PBL.

PBL has been great! It has been challenging, yet rewarding to be able to work through a patient case every week with my group. PBL makes you think like a practicing clinician and also teaches you how to provide quality care to patients and develop a unique plan based on their needs, past, and social history. It is amazing to be able to go from a chief complaint to asking relevant questions in order to make a plan to examine the patient appropriately and finally using this information to order the proper labs and imaging tests needed. I also appreciate that everyone is able to bring their unique knowledge to the table in order to help the group develop a diagnosis and treatment plan. 

Why NUPA?

I chose Northwestern because the program had a family feel to it and I knew I would get the support I needed to go through a rigorous curriculum. Additionally, the mission statement was shown in multiple ways within the curriculum such as providing first year PA students with the opportunity to see patients with other healthcare professional students through Education Centered Medical Home (ECMH) which will allow my class and I to start training to work as members within an interdisciplinary team. There were many other factors that lead me to choosing NUPA such as having Problem-Based Learning (PBL), small class sizes, organ system-based curriculum, medical Spanish being offered in the first year, having a variety of clinical sites and more!

How has your experience been relocating to Chicago? 

Moving to Chicago has been so fun! I love that there are so many places that are within walking distance such as study spots, places to eat, activities to do, and cool events that I can attend every weekend. It’s definitely different from home so I am experiencing so many new things and I am very excited to go through the various seasons here.

What is your favorite thing about NUPA?

First and foremost, the faculty, as they are truly an incredible group of mentors who are genuine, patient, and want to see us succeed. They bring passion and humility to their roles as our educators and fully embody the qualities that define what it means to be a phenomenal PA. In addition to the lectures taught by our great faculty, we have frequent and special opportunities to learn from guest lecturers who are experts in their fields. I am always impressed by the way these professionals make difficult concepts approachable and applicable to the clinical setting. Another favorite aspect of NUPA is our small class size. It has been so easy to get to know each of my classmates and quickly establish a close circle of 35 friends in the setting of a huge city. Speaking of the city, I love NUPA’s location. Being surrounded by the Northwestern Medicine campus while in the heart of downtown Chicago, I am continuously excited by all that is happening around me. I can’t think of a better place to live and explore while working towards my professional career!

What is an average day like for you?

Since I live in Streeterville, I have a quick and easy commute on foot to class each morning. On breaks between classes, I like to go for a walk around the Northwestern Medicine campus and on sunny days, I’ll try to eat lunch at one of the many benches that surround the school. If we finish class early, I’ll go for a run along the lakefront trail or take a walk along the Chicago River because the architecture is stunning! On the weeknights when I’m not working out or cooking dinner, I’m usually researching topics that pertain to our weekly PBL case and reviewing the week’s lecture content. The days can be long, but the weeks tend to fly by and on Fridays, I always take the night off to get together with friends from class for happy hour or to check out local live music bars.

Why NUPA?

The problem-based learning (PBL) curriculum was one of the principal reasons why I chose NUPA. After just two months, the tremendous amount that I have learned and grown in my ability to reason has reinforced how impactful the PBL curriculum is. The steps of working through a broad list of differential diagnoses, leading a thoughtful history and physical exam, and understanding how to form evidence-based treatment plans for complex patients is arguably the best approach to learning medicine. It is because of PBL that I am comfortable with being a novice yet have confidence in my abilities to think critically and bring a comprehensive approach to patient care. Aside from PBL, the opportunities to engage with patients in ECMH clinics throughout both years of the program was a huge distinguishing factor of the NUPA program. ECMH is the perfect way to become accustomed to the collaborative and interprofessional role that I’ll have as a PA, and I am very excited for the opportunity to apply my knowledge and practice the skills we have been learning in a true patient care setting.

What advice would you share with an applicant considering Northwestern?

Be yourself on your application. Every school is looking for a diverse set of individuals to make up their class and at Northwestern you’ll find yourself among classmates from a variety of backgrounds and specialties. Do your best to shadow and experience medicine in its fullest and understand that the desire to learn is what makes Northwestern’s program so fun! Realistically, I would say this program offers you all of the resources to succeed, both academically and clinically. Northwestern provides a safe environment to be wrong and to be happy to be wrong! As someone that genuinely loves learning and understanding the deep physiology behind our complicated cases, there’s no better place to become a PA in our current times!

What advice would you share with an applicant considering Northwestern?

One piece of advice I would share with an applicant considering Northwestern is to really lean into your clinical experiences prior to PA school. Make the most of every day at work or volunteering by being inquisitive! As you set up for an in-office procedure, ask your colleagues specifics about the procedure. As you care for patients of diverse backgrounds, make a concerted effort to learn new ways to integrate cultural humility into every patient interaction. The Northwestern PA program encourages students to be self-directed, curious learners, so beginning to think in this manner prior to PA school will set you up for success not only as a Northwestern PA student, but as a practicing PA as well!

What are your impressions of the curriculum?

Our curriculum is challenging and taught by experts on each individual subject. The pace is much faster than what you encounter at the undergraduate level, so come ready to work! Our professors and guest lecturers do an amazing job sharing their knowledge and are genuinely invested in making you an excellent clinician. The PBL curriculum encourages you to think for yourself, develop clinical reasoning, become comfortable teaching others, and learn how to find and appraise medical literature. The PBL coursework also develops strength through teamwork in small groups, which is a critical skill for PAs in the workforce.

What are your impressions of the curriculum?

Northwestern’s PA Program is truly a gem. By the end of each Problem-Based Learning (PBL) week, I am extremely surprised at how much I have learned and how tangible the information is to grasp. I am able to apply the clinical knowledge instead of just reading about it. PBL is what sets the curriculum apart from many other programs. You learn to think critically and problem solve when presented with a patient’s chief complaint. You learn to take an adequate history, perform the proper work-up, and develop a diagnosis and treatment plan. I cannot imagine a better way to prepare for becoming a clinician. We also receive amazing lectures from Northwestern clinicians who use their unique perspectives to really help solidify and bridge our clinical and scientific understanding. In addition, it is evident how much the faculty cares about us and our well-being. Despite the rigor of PA school, the faculty always make an effort to provide support in any way they can. Our cohort is also really close and we all work to help each other out, which supports our learning.

What attracted you to the Northwestern PA Program?

For me, Northwestern had it all! I loved the concept of Problem-Based Learning (PBL), a small class size, access to a wide range of clinical sites, being in Chicago, the list goes on! Of all the great things about Northwestern PA program, what really compelled me to apply was the mission statement. I felt that my own personal mission statement greatly overlapped with the goals and ideology that the program holds. A lot of my experience studying Medical Anthropology in undergrad made me inclined to find a program that went farther than just training me to be a PA; I wanted to attend a school that would help me be healer and advocate for patients. I love seeing our mission statement followed through in actions like the Education Centered Medical Home (ECMH) and the Behavioral and Preventive Medicine course. I feel that Northwestern is devoted to creating healthcare providers who can unlearn their own biases and do more in the communities they practice in, and I wanted to be a part of it!

What attracted you to the Northwestern PA Program?  

My interview with Northwestern was what sealed the deal for me. It was the only interview where I left feeling more confident in myself than when I arrived. It is natural to have some pre-interview jitters, but everyone involved in the interview day at NUPA did a fantastic job making me feel welcomed so that I could relax and show them my true self. Both the students and the faculty were so friendly, genuine, and approachable, and I still feel supported by them now that I am a student here. All my interactions with the faculty members have left the impression that I am not just a statistic but someone with unique strengths and the potential to become a great PA. I couldn’t be happier that Northwestern and I chose one another!  

What attracted you to the Northwestern PA Program?

Honestly, many things caught my attention about the Northwestern PA Program. First, the program’s affiliation with a nationally ranked academic medical center and four elective rotations will benefit me during clinical year, giving me exposure to more specialties and allowing me to learn from the best providers. Second, the program’s Problem-Based Learning (PBL) curriculum. As an active learner, I knew this type of curriculum would help me think more critically while learning. Third, the family feel I got from the faculty, staff, and students during the info session and interview day made me realize it was an atmosphere in which I knew I would get the support I needed to push through the rigors of PA school. The small class size helps make that happen. Lastly, I loved that the program has Medical Spanish in their curriculum. As a Spanish-speaking Hispanic, I feel it is important to increase the number of Spanish-speaking providers in order to bridge the language barrier gap in my community. Northwestern shares that same value.

What advice would you share with an applicant considering Northwestern?

I would encourage you to seriously consider Northwestern University’s PA program. The program has an incredible array of resources and opportunities to prepare you to become a great PA. The organ system-based curriculum and the Problem-Based Learning approach are organized in a way such that your knowledge builds upon the previous system, and everything just starts to come together. All our faculty and guest lecturers are extremely knowledgeable because they are experts in their field, so we learn from the best of the best. Besides academics, we also get opportunities to expand our PA network.  Not only do we get paired with a “big sibling” from the cohort above us, but we also get the chance to be paired with a practicing Northwestern Medicine PA mentor so that we can receive guidance from all stages of this PA journey. As a cherry on top, Chicago is a beautiful city and our campus is located in a prime location in the heart of Chicago.

Why did you select the Northwestern University PA Program?

What attracted me most to the PA Program was the opportunity to incorporate Problem-Based Learning (PBL) into my methods of learning. I had some experience with prior PBL courses and realized that although it is a lot of work, it helps to integrate the information with a deeper understanding. Now I could not imagine learning medicine any other way. My decision to attend Northwestern was further confirmed when I went to the interview and felt comfortable with the program, the faculty and the students that I met that day. The environment at Northwestern makes coming to class each day enjoyable and productive, which I don’t think can be found at many other programs.

Compared to your impressions before starting PA school, what has surprised you since enrolling in the Northwestern University PA Program?

Prior to starting PA school, I thought that I would have to put my life on hold and say goodbye to my family and friends for two years. I am pleased to say that this is very much not the case. Although there is a lot of work to be done and a lot to learn in a short amount of time, it is very possible in this program to balance life and school. I not only have time to see my family, but also to spend time with my classmates outside of academia.

What are your impressions of the PA Program curriculum?

My impression about the PA Program curriculum is that the program is designed for success. We are constantly reminded with Northwestern program statistics that we will become professional, competent clinicians just like all that have come before us. The system-based approach is one part of the curriculum that enhances the integration of our learning across our courses and helps us reach that success. Overall, it is important to trust the process of this program because it works. Additionally, since the students here at Northwestern hold themselves to such a high standard, there is no question that we will come to reach our own goals and those set by the curriculum.

What advice or other thoughts would you share with an applicant considering the Northwestern University PA Program?

Advice that I would give to those considering the PA Program is that you will not regret it. Any PA program you may choose will be challenging, there is no doubt, but at Northwestern I can say that you will have an enjoyable experience. The faculty and staff here are amazing: each with their own distinct personalities and quirks that make classes interesting and engaging. They also care about your learning and are willing to help in every possible way that they can. Your classmates are also one of the best parts about choosing Northwestern. They are some of the greatest people I know and will keep you smiling even when school becomes challenging. The program itself will give you the tools for success, but what makes Northwestern special is the positivity and team-based mentality that is incorporated on your journey to becoming a professional.

Why did you select the Northwestern University PA Program?

The Problem-Based Learning curriculum and reputation of the University.

How did you find your first job out of PA school?

I found my first job by way of our “career day” in March of my second year at Northwestern. We had representatives from different hospitals come to talk to us about applying for jobs. I went up and talked to one of the speakers after the presentation and told her I was interested in her field, and it eventually led to my first position out of PA school.

If you were going to do it all over again, what would you do differently (regarding the PA school experience, choosing PA school or anything at all)?

I would have taken my elective rotations in something different than my current profession. I knew I wanted to go into orthopedics, but I wish I had a better knowledge base in cardiology and/or respiratory by taking a four-week rotation in one of those subjects.

How did PBL prepare you for success during your clinical year and now in professional practice?

PBL helped me synthesize information from Didactic Year and gave it practical application that improved both my clinical and analytical skills. Alongside my classmates, I learned to be an effective member of a medical team, which has been invaluable in the clinical environment. PBL also taught me to be an efficient self-learner as I pre-pared to teach my classmates each session. This has given me the ability to operate more independently in the clinical environment and more effectively communicate information to patients, families and other members of the medical team. My didactic experience would not have been the same without PBL, and I am grateful for the vital role it played in preparing me for clinical success!

What attracted you to the Northwestern PA Program?

I knew that Northwestern had a great PA Program when I applied, but it was my interview day that really sealed the deal. From the first moment I walked in the doors, I felt welcomed by both students and staff. Everyone was genuine, willing to answer questions and truly happy to be here. The environment is so collaborative and supportive, which is exactly what I was looking for in a program. I can confidently say that I made the right choice. My advice for applicants: approach your interviews as a two-way street. You want the school to choose you, of course, but try to picture yourself as a student at that program. You'll be spending some very formative years at whichever school you choose. If the program feels like the right fit, you really can't go wrong!

Why did you select the Northwestern University PA Program?

In addition to going to school between the Mag Mile and Lake Shore Drive, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine has an exceptional reputation.

What aspect of the Northwestern University PA Program best prepared you for your current position?

Problem-Based Learning (PBL): At first I was hesitant for this form of learning and was even avoiding PA programs that offered PBL; however, my interview convinced me otherwise. PBL made the coursework exciting, encouraged team skills and, most importantly, helped me retain information because I was responsible for teaching my classmates. I can still recall our first case.

How did you find your first job out of PA school?

Mayo Clinic BMT saved my father’s life; therefore, I have the utmost respect for this institution. When I saw a job posting online, I immediately applied and the rest is history.

If you were going to do it all over again, what would you do differently (regarding the PA school experience, choosing PA school or anything at all)?

I would recommend choosing your elective rotations very carefully; pick a weakness, not a strength and become better at that particular specialty. Whatever you decide to do, an additional few weeks in cardiology or pulmonary will help you.

How has PBL prepared you for success during clinical year?

Without a doubt, Problem-Based Learning (PBL) has been the single most important factor in my education thus far. Being treated like a clinician from day one forces you to learn how to think, which is one of the most valuable skills in medicine. In other words, PBL trains you to learn to ask appropriate questions, teaches you how to think outside the box, and most importantly, forces you to collaborate with peers to reach a final diagnosis. PBL does a good job of taking you out of your comfort zone and challenging you in ways that make you grow. I would also say that PBL teaches you how to sort through complex medical literature and make it relevant. This is an important skill going into clinical year and beyond since medicine is an ever-changing, research-dominated subject.

What are your impressions of the PA Program curriculum?

The Northwestern PA Program offers an immersive curriculum that, from day one, prepares students to become well-rounded providers. The system-based approach allows us to focus on one organ system at a time and thoroughly review all aspects of each, including the anatomy/physiology, patient assessment, laboratory medicine, pharmacotherapy and preventative medicine. The PBL curriculum, which goes through patient cases every week in small groups, sets the stage for the effective development of deep critical thinking skills, as well as emphasizing the importance of a team-based approach. In addition, I believe it was very progressive of the program to include Medical Spanish in their curriculum, to address the significant patient population of Spanish speakers in Chicago. Overall, I believe the PA Program curriculum reinforces life-long learning and encourages students to take ownership of their own education. I now realize that Northwestern’s unique approach proved extremely valuable when adapting to real-life situations. I consider myself lucky to have chosen Northwestern.

Thinking back to your expectations about what the clinical year would be like, what has surprised you most now that you are taking care of patients every day?

During the didactic year, there was a steep learning curve. I was immersed in the curriculum, and I was looking forward to applying all the knowledge I accumulated over the first year. My clinical experience this year has reinforced the concepts I learned—it has also been so rewarding taking care of patients daily. All the hours I spent learning various medical concepts and reviewing slides have paid off. Patients have been so receptive to having another member of their healthcare team. You would be surprised how many patients have asked me to explain the basic pathophysiology of the condition they are experiencing or the progression of their recovery. It has been rewarding to contribute to their medical understanding and health literacy.

Why did you select the Northwestern University PA Program?

A number of factors went into selecting different programs; specifically the reputation of the program, opportunities and board pass rates. Additionally, being in Chicago only added to endless opportunities within the program.

What aspect of the Northwestern University PA Program best prepared you for your current position?

One thing that distinguishes Northwestern’s PA Program is the variety of rotations offered. I completed rotations at major academic medical centers, federal hospitals, community hospitals and even private practices. The variety of patients from inner-city to rural populations prepared me well to practice medicine.

What advice or thoughts would you share with an applicant regarding work or involvement in the PA profession after PA school?

Research. Research is imperative to success. Know expectations, set goals and make plans to accomplish those goals.

How did PBL prepare you for success during your clinical year and now in professional practice?

A unique aspect of Northwestern’s curriculum is its emphasis on PBL, a method of learning that allows students to apply the knowledge they have gained throughout Didactic Year to various clinical scenarios in collaboration with fellow classmates. The way in which students work through a PBL patient case is comparable to how a real patient would be approached — you learn how to formulate a differential diagnosis, conduct an interview, order appropriate diagnostic testing, create a treatment plan and present the patient. Not only has PBL allowed me to advance my critical-thinking and self-directed learning skills, but it has made me a stronger team member and more effective communicator. PBL truly trains you to think and work like a clinician and prepares you to become a confident and successful clinical student and future PA. I cannot imagine what my medical training would have been like without PBL!

Why did you select the Northwestern University PA Program?

I chose Northwestern for numerous reasons. First, the PA Program is situated in the downtown Chicago medical campus. The students have access to some of the most advanced medical resources (e.g., patient simulation lab) and have the opportunity to train at a nationally recognized healthcare system. With the strong reputation Northwestern University carries, I knew graduating from the program would help me during my job search process. Lastly, after my interview with one of the faculty members, Ms. Kris Healy, I was impressed by the program's commitment and dedication to reaching out to the underserved populations. 

How did you find your first job out of PA school?

Persistence. I knew I was interested in dermatology and that getting a job straight out of PA school would be difficult. During my clinical year, I completed an elective rotation in dermatology and shadowed a dermatology PA during my spare time. I was also very active in the Illinois Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and began networking through the organization. After applying to every dermatology job posting I saw and sending out my CV to all the dermatology offices in the Chicagoland area, I finally landed my dream job.

If you were going to do it all over again, what would you do differently (regarding the PA school experience, choosing PA school or anything at all)?

I wish I could have been more involved with the student leadership. Don't be scared like I was. I was concerned that I would not be able to balance schoolwork and holding a leadership position. Looking back now, it would have been doable. 

Why did you select the Northwestern University PA Program?

I chose the PA Program because I had been working in the NMH system for a few years and knew both the reputation of Feinberg as well as the quality of the University as a whole. Regardless of being in the first class or not, which had inherent risk, I knew that being at such an esteemed institution I would be well educated and prepared at the highest level. And you can’t beat classes on the shores of Lake Michigan either. 

What aspect of the Northwestern University PA Program best prepared you for your current position?

The single most important aspect that prepared me was the expectation for excellence. The program championed high expectations to perform at the highest level as well as represent a new program in the Chicagoland area. If we weren’t prepared for a clinical day or didn’t score well on national exams, it reflected poorly on a program that we were directly responsible for shaping. That being said, Northwestern gave us endless educational resources within the medical school that enabled us to succeed.

What was the biggest adjustment moving from PA school to your current position?

The most difficult part of the transition from student to practice was with confident decision-making. As a student, there is always someone superior to you that reviews your notes, assessment and plan, but as a practicing PA there is a level of autonomy that demands not only knowledge and compassionate decision-making but also confidence, which is difficult to develop.

How did you find your first job out of PA school?

I did my final rotation, an elective, at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Cardiothoracic Surgery and was hired before the end of the rotation.

What advice or thoughts would you share with an applicant regarding work or involvement in the PA profession after PA school?

I think the best initial step is to be selfish; concentrate first on your immediate position as a provider and get through your first year as a PA. Learn as much as possible about your field and yourself in that field. Once you begin to feel confident and see some real success as a healthcare provider, then start to transition into leadership and involvement. You can’t be a good leader without a strong clinical base.

If you were going to do it all over again, what would you do differently (regarding the PA school experience, choosing PA school or anything at all)?

Wouldn’t change a thing.

What has the transition been like between the didactic and clinical years of the program?

SO GREAT. It is so nice seeing patients every day and applying what I learned during my first year. I have learned so much in my first two rotations in such a short period of time. Building on my foundation from didactic year has made it so much easier to further my learning—to better understand diagnoses and how to treat patients. It has been an easy transition and I feel like I have made a huge difference in so many patients’ lives already!

Prior to enrolling, what helped you feel prepared for PA school?

Some of the best advice I received from PAs was to take time and enjoy myself before starting school. PA school is an exciting and challenging two years, and it is important to do things that you love and want to check off your list before starting school, because you may not have time to do them. You'll learn everything you need to know in school. Another thing that was very helpful was reaching out to current PA students and practicing PAs to get an idea of what to expect and get any tips they might have about school, rotations and life as a PA.

What are your impressions of the curriculum?

The curriculum at Northwestern University's PA program stands out through its use of the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model. Unlike many programs, the clinical experience starts during our didactic year. As PA students, through the Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine’s Education Centered Medical Home (ECMH) program, we work with medical students in clinical settings across Chicago once a month. We gather pertinent patient history, perform physical exams, present it to the medical team, and develop a treatment plan for patients with the help and approval of our overseeing preceptors. Having this early exposure in a clinical setting gives us an advantage during the start of clinical rotations since we have an idea of what to expect and how to start conversations with patients. In addition, going to ECMH provides a break from the studying routine of the didactic year. It serves as a reminder of, and motivator for, the professional life that awaits us post-graduation!

Why did you select the Northwestern University PA Program?

The Problem-Based Learning (PBL) style was a major factor for me, in addition to the hospital connection with Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

What aspect of the Northwestern University PA Program best prepared you for your current position?

Ability to adapt to new situations and learn new information (preparing learning issues from PBL class). The ability to read through information and pull relevant portions to create a concise summary is an important skill to have. There will always be new information, and it will help you to create your own “learning issues” and share the information with other colleagues and residents. It helps move your knowledge base further than you will achieve with passive learning.

How did you find your first job out of PA School?

Networking, networking, networking. Know your interest (but don’t commit too soon to interest; keep your options open), always be “on,” everyone you meet on rotation is a potential colleague. Treat them as such.

Compared to your impressions before starting PA school, what surprised you about the Northwestern University PA Program?

What surprised me most after enrolling in the program was finding out how compassionate and empathetic the staff and faculty are. When you're interviewing, nearly all programs say that their staff and faculty care and is there to help you with anything, but the PA Program here actively puts that into practice. My class entered the program at a very unusual and difficult time during the pandemic. Staff and faculty were great at listening to our concerns and struggles and implementing changes when they could. I also entered the program with the understanding that PA school was difficult, but I was delighted to discover that the organ-based system of study provides an efficient way for the concepts from different classes to blend and complement each other well.

Why did you select the Northwestern University PA Program?

The Problem-Based Learning (PBL) aspect of the curriculum.

What aspect of the Northwestern University PA Program best prepared you for your current position?

PBL: Learning and practicing the process of how to approach topics in medicine rather than just learning information. You’re never going to be able to memorize everything, so PBL teaches you to be comfortable taking any clinical topic or question and knowing how to approach finding the answer and applying it to your patient.

How did you find your first job out of PA school?

Web postings on hospital websites.

What advice or thoughts would you share with an applicant regarding work or involvement in the PA profession after PA school?

Become a member of your state, national and specialty organizations. They are the only ones advocating for you, and they are a great resource when you have questions.

How did PBL prepare you for success during your clinical year and now in professional practice?

At Northwestern, we enjoy a quick development from student to provider, and PBL encourages this efficient  transition in unique ways. To start, many lessons are better taught in group discussion than in lecture. In PBL, we dissect these lessons by challenging ideas and sharing experiences in a small group setting. Another advantage to PBL is that, in simulated patient encounters, there is the option to take a time out and research the best way to approach a complex patient. This prepared me for clinical success by giving me a glimpse into a variety of patient populations and their unique challenges. Most patients I have seen relate in some way to a PBL case, so I have a head start in identifying their needs and creating a management plan.

How did your first-year experience prepare you for clinical rotations?

Didactic year threw a whirlwind of information at us—at times, it was difficult to digest and integrate everything into an overarching clinical picture. However, we had opportunities such as weekly Problem-Based Learning (PBL) cases to develop our clinical reasoning, monthly Education Centered Medical Home (ECMH) clinical experiences to try our hand at taking histories and examining real patients, and occasional patient encounter workshops that allowed us to practice skills such as “delivering bad news” in a safe space. These additions to the curriculum made the transition from classroom learning to clinical learning more fluid.

How has PBL prepared you for success during clinical year?

Problem-Based Learning (PBL) was easily my favorite part of the first year of PA School. Very few PA programs in the country offer it, but I can't imagine learning as effectively any other way. With PBL, we are presented with a new patient case at the beginning of each week. The method for working through the case mirrors how patients are approached during clinical year. For each case assigned during the first year, we worked through all the different possible diagnoses that might present similarly, ordered labs and imaging tests, and arrived at treatment plans. This translated directly into how I approach my patient cases this year. During my clinical year, I have felt the direct impact of this, because I feel like we have learned how to critically think of ways different diseases can present similarly from the beginning our PA education. Initially, it may seem like a daunting way to learn, and it is a lot of work, but I can’t recommend it enough.