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Sabrina Rodriguez

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Finalist

General information

Hobbies & Interests

  • Babysitting And Childcare
  • Community Service And Volunteering

Reading

  • Book Club
  • Mystery
  • Realistic Fiction
  • True Story

I read books multiple times a week.

Bio

With a strong foundation in psychology and a passion for healthcare, I am committed to becoming a Physician Assistant (PA). I am currently pursuing a Master of Science in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Forensic Medicine, expected in May 2025. As a Medical Assistant at Palm Beach Dermatology, I manage over 2,000 patient records while adhering to HIPAA regulations. I assist dermatologists with various procedures, ensuring that exam rooms are properly maintained and that patients receive a high standard of care. My previous experience at Comprehensive Women’s Health further developed my clinical skills, including vital signs and patient education. I also effectively communicate with Spanish-speaking patients, enhancing their understanding of their healthcare needs. In addition to my clinical experience, I am involved in leadership and volunteer roles. As the Director of Greek Affairs for the March of Dimes Collegiate Council, I organized fundraising events to support research benefiting pre-term babies. Volunteering with pediatric patients at Shands Children’s Hospital through the Footprints Buddy and Support Program has deepened my compassion for patient advocacy. I am an active member of the Pre-Physician Assistant Association, engaging in discussions about the PA profession and seeking opportunities to give back to the community. I am excited to continue my journey in healthcare, driven by a commitment to provide high-quality patient care.

Education

University of Florida

Master's degree program

2023 – 2025

Majors:
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other

University of Florida

Bachelor's degree program

2019 – 2023

Majors:
  • Psychology, General

Miscellaneous

Desired degree level:
Master's degree program
Medical school interest:
No

Career

  • Medical Assistant

    Medical Practice · Comprehensive Women's Health

    Jan 2022 – Jan 2024

Miscellaneous

Dream career field:
Hospital & Health Care
Has nursing license:
No
Posh PA Underrepresented Minority Grant
As I reflect on my journey thus far, it’s evident that my aspiration to become a physician assistant (PA) is deeply rooted in personal experiences. Growing up in a family profoundly affected by cancer, I witnessed the resilience required to navigate the complexities of illness and healthcare. Multiple family members battled this disease, and their experiences revealed the critical role that compassionate healthcare providers play during such challenging times. My grandmother, who suffered from breast cancer, depended heavily on caregivers, including myself, as I assisted her with medication management and translated for her at medical appointments due to her limited English proficiency. It was during this journey that I encountered a PA who provided exceptional supportive care. She ensured that my grandmother was comfortable and that her medications were effective, highlighting the profound impact a PA can have on a patient’s quality of life. This experience ignited within me a desire to make a meaningful difference as a PA, particularly for individuals facing similar health challenges. My educational journey at the University of Florida, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, laid a foundation for understanding human behavior and the effects of mental health on overall well-being. However, my commitment to pursuing a career as a PA solidified during my role as a Medical Assistant at Comprehensive Women’s Health. In this capacity, I assisted patients facing various health challenges, from delivering difficult news to a patient who had struggled with infertility to supporting women diagnosed with cancer. Although I was able to provide compassionate care, I recognized that my role was limited. As a PA, I envision myself taking a more active role in their healthcare journeys. I also engaged in leadership and volunteer activities that extended my impact beyond the clinic. Working with the March of Dimes Collegiate Council, I organized events to raise funds for research benefiting preterm babies and their families. This experience highlighted the importance of education for minority populations, especially in addressing healthcare disparities that contribute to prematurity and maternal mortality. In the future, I aspire to fill these gaps by advocating for women and preterm infants, recognizing that community involvement and collective action are vital in driving public health improvements. My commitment to healthcare deepened further when I began volunteering with the Footprints Buddy and Support Program at Shands Children’s Hospital. Here, I provided support to pediatric patients and their families, many of whom were facing the devastating effects of cancer. Creating meaningful connections reinforced my belief in the power of compassion and empathy in healing. However, I yearned for a more direct role in patient care, especially as my experiences with cancer have become increasingly personal. My fluency in Spanish enhances my ability to provide culturally competent care. I have witnessed the challenges faced by Spanish-speaking patients, including language barriers that often lead to disparities in healthcare access. Many of these individuals express frustration and anxiety when navigating medical jargon in a language foreign to them. By bridging this gap, I aim to ensure that patients receive the comprehensive care they deserve. My journey has reinforced my passion for the PA profession and instilled a sense of empathy and resilience. As I embark on the next chapter, I am driven by a commitment to serve those in need and advocate for the well-being of every individual I encounter. My goal as a PA is to make a tangible difference in the lives of patients and their families, particularly those at risk due to socioeconomic challenges and health literacy. I am dedicated to creating a positive impact in the world of healthcare.
Sabrina Rodriguez Student Profile | Bold.org