Hello there! I moved across the country to pursue my second career as a physician assistant and will earn my master's of medical science degree in 2025. My dad's cardiac issues influenced my decision to pursue healthcare, specifically cardiac care, as he was hospitalized three times for three different cardiac surgeries. I owe much to the field of medicine for saving his life and granting him a few extra years to live. I worked as an RN on a cardiothoracic surgery unit for 3.5 years and decided to advance my knowledge and skill set as a PA. I am eager to begin my graduate school journey and advocate for the PA profession as many are still unaware of a PA's scope of practice. I am determined to graduate so I can soon treat patients undergoing the same surgeries my dad once had. Aside from my academic goals, I enjoy traveling to see more of the world! Caring for elderly patients taught me the value of life experiences. With that in mind, I checked off one of my personal goals of being more comfortable alone and went on my first solo trip to Seattle. In 2023, I went to Hawaii, Japan, Hong Kong, Mexico, Colorado, and Connecticut. (Shout out to cheap flights and saved-up credit card points!) I love engaging with different cultures, practicing their languages, and collecting Starbucks mugs to commemorate my travels. More recently, I completed my first half marathon this year and aim to challenge myself to run another half marathon by the end of 2024!