I am a re-entry student (and married mother of three) following a passion for helping others as I work to complete my master’s in physician assistant studies through A.T. Still University’s Central Coast PA Program. My previous communications career experience includes positions at the American Red Cross and, most recently, the California Dental Association, where I worked for seven years. I always knew I wanted to be hands-on helping others but felt I was "committed" to the career choice I made at age 17 when I chose to pursue a bachelor's in public relations. My goal is to become a physician assistant working in an area that provides care to the underserved. I have a strong understanding of the access to care problems in our community, state, and country as a whole, and a desire to make a change. My late father taught me the importance of kindness, dedication, and perseverance. I grew up in a small community and can remember vividly running into people in town and hearing them tell my mother what an impact my father had had on them or someone in their family. I love the "legacy" my father has left behind and it is my dream to follow in his steps. Reducing my student loan debt will help me focus on a career giving back to my community and any amount is appreciated.