Why study Pre-Physician Assistant at MC?
Overview
The B.A. in Biology and B.A. in Biochemistry provide excellent preparation for physician’s assistant (PA) programs. Maryville College students have stellar placement into PA schools due to the rigorous academic program, the emphasis on undergraduate research, and the personal reference letters made by their faculty. During their tenure at MC, students are advised to work at a doctor’s office.
This hands-on experience combined with the rigorous academic coursework and undergraduate research provides Maryville College students ideal preparation for PA school.
Maryville College faculty members work closely with MC students, both in courses and conducting research. As a result, Maryville College faculty members are able to write excellent letters of reference and recommendation for MC students because faculty and students truly know one another.
A new and exciting opportunity within the Natural Science Division of Maryville College is our Pre-Physician’s assistant pathway. A Physician’s Assistant (PA) is a health care provider licensed to practice under a Physician’s supervision. As part of their comprehensive responsibilities, PAs conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, offer counsel on preventive health care, provide surgical assistance, and write prescriptions (in nearly all states within the U.S.).
Through hands on laboratory work, the completion of a senior study, assistance with locating doctors and P.A.s with which to shadow, and personal letters of recommendation from faculty, Maryville College will provide you the training, confidence, experience, and information needed for successful entry into Physician’s Assistant graduate studies programs. You’ll get prepared while enjoying fun and enriching learning opportunities.
Meet a Current Scot
Diya Patel
Hometown: Knoxville, Tennessee
Diya chose MC for its welcoming, tight-knit atmosphere and the opportunities for engaging with professors and forming strong connections within the campus community. She is involved with Global Citizenship Organization and Tri-Beta, the College’s biology honors society.
As a biology major on the pre-physician assistant track, Diya enjoys gaining hands-on experience with a variety of lab techniques, adding “the rigorous academic environment challenges me and is helping me build a strong foundation for my future in healthcare.” Her goal is to become a physician assistant and deliver compassionate and effective care to patients. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the constant support of my professors and family,” she said.
Meet a Recent Grad
Alex Smith’24
Currently: Physician Assistant Student at South College in Knoxville, Tennessee
When she started at MC, Alex knew she wanted to pursue medicine and chose Biochemistry as a major. During her junior year, as she was studying for the MCAT, Alex decided that she had no desire to become a surgeon or start her own medical practice. “I was working as a medical assistant at Knoxville Orthopedic Clinic and had worked closely with Physician Assistants (PAs) and liked how much autonomy and lateral movement the profession has,” she said. Consultations with MC professors and PAs led her to decide to apply to PA programs.
Alex credits rigorous STEM coursework, labs and hands-on learning experiences with preparing her for PA school. “The faculty is so important in a MC education, as well. All of my professors were amazing – they were always willing to answer questions, set up mock interviews, and help with applications!”
