As an African American female physician assistant student, diversity in medicine is important as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a holistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second-year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low-income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, a health care provider must be active and aware of the challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This allows for a provider-to-patient relationship while creating opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first-generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID-19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options have helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 helplines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication with our patients to help reduce healthcare disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID-19. During this pandemic, I have reflected on my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her healthcare providers and local pharmacy make sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school, I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options during troubling situations in underserved comminuities.

As an African American female physician assistant student, this scholarship would help me to pay off my student loans. Personally, diversity in medicine is important as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a holistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second-year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low-income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, a health care provider must be active and aware of the challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This allows for a provider-to-patient relationship while creating opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first-generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID-19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options have helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 helplines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication with our patients to help reduce healthcare disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID-19. During this pandemic, I have reflected on my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her healthcare providers and local pharmacy make sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school, I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options during troubling situations to underserved communities.

As an African American female physician assistant student, this scholarship would help me pay off my student loans. Personally, diversity in medicine is important as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a holistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second-year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low-income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, a health care provider must be active and aware of the challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This allows for a provider-to-patient relationship while creating opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first-generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID-19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options have helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 helplines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication with our patients to help reduce healthcare disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID-19. During this pandemic, I have reflected on my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her healthcare providers and local pharmacy make sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school, I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options during troubling situations for underserved communities.

As an African American female physician assistant student, this scholarship would help me to continue my studies and pay off student loans. Personally, diversity in medicine is important as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a holistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second-year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low-income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, a healthcare provider must be active and aware of the challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This allows for a provider-to-patient relationship while creating opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first-generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID-19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant with the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options have helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 helplines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication with our patients to help reduce healthcare disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID-19. During this pandemic, I have reflected on my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her healthcare providers and local pharmacy make sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school, I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

As an African American female physician assistant student, this scholarship would help me to continue my studies. Personally, diversity in medicine is important as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a holistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second-year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low-income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, a health care provider must be active and aware of the challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This allows for a provider-to-patient relationship while creating opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first-generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID-19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options have helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 helplines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication with our patients to help reduce healthcare disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID-19. During this pandemic, I have reflected on my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her healthcare providers and local pharmacy make sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school, I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

I have demonstrated service leadership through my physician assistant (PA) program by becoming elected for Vice President of the Diversity Equity and Inclusion group by my classmates. The DEI mission is to spread awareness of health related disparities related to diversity, equity and inclusion. I believe that in order to achieve this mission there had to be representation and I was honored as an African American female to be selected for this position. PA programs do no reflect the racial, ethnic, or gender diversity of the US population. According to the NCCPA only 3.6% of PAs are African American. The topic of diversifying medicine is something I'm passionate about. After being elected I took the opportunity to address topics concerning how the PA students could be more involved in our local community of Philadelphia. This consisted of the idea of outreach to Philadelphia youth to encourage and bring exposure to the PA profession. Another topic of discussion was bringing awareness of implicit bias and the importance of relatability to minority patients through provider representation and how this all affects patient care outcomes. My hope as Vice President is to continue to help create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive environment for PA students and encourage meaningful conversations. Furthermore, diversity in medicine is important to me as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a holistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second-year PA student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low-income communities. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, a health care provider must be active and aware of the challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This allows for a provider-to-patient relationship while creating opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first-generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID-19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant with the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options have helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 helplines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school, I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

As an African American female physician assistant student I am living my ancestor's wildest dreams. Personally, diversity in medicine is important as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a holistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second-year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low-income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, a healthcare provider must be active and aware of the challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This allows for a provider-to-patient relationship while creating opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first-generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID-19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant with the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options have helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 helplines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication with our patients to help reduce healthcare disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID-19. During this pandemic, I have reflected on my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her healthcare providers and local pharmacy make sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school, I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations. The life of my dreams is to serve underserved communities in primary care.

As a first-generation to college African American female physician assistant student, there are many adversities I have had to overcome. Personally, adversity pertaining to diversity in medicine is an important aspect to me as a future healthcare provider. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a holistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second-year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low-income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, a health care provider must be active and aware of the challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This allows for a provider-to-patient relationship while creating opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first-generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID-19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options have helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 helplines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication with our patients to help reduce healthcare disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID-19. During this pandemic, I have reflected on my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her healthcare providers and local pharmacy make sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school, I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

As an African American female physician assistant student, this scholarship would help me to continue my studies. Personally, diversity in medicine is important as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a holistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second-year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low-income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, a health care provider must be active and aware of the challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This allows for a provider-to-patient relationship while creating opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first-generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID-19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options have helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 helplines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication with our patients to help reduce healthcare disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID-19. During this pandemic, I have reflected on my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her healthcare providers and local pharmacy make sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school, I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

As an African American female physician assistant (PA) student, this scholarship would help me to continue my studies. Personally, diversity in medicine is important as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a holistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second-year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low-income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, a healthcare provider must be active and aware of the challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This allows for a provider-to-patient relationship while creating opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first-generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID-19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options have helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 helplines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication with our patients to help reduce healthcare disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID-19. During this pandemic, I have reflected on my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her healthcare providers and local pharmacy make sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school, I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

After many nights of eating out on DoorDash during the COVID-19 pandemic, I gained over 40 pounds in 1 year. At my follow up annual physical my doctor suggested that I join Weight Watchers to help combat the amount of weight I was putting on. I joined Weight Watchers in November of 2022 weighing in at 162 lbs. My decision to follow through with joining and sticking with Weight Watchers has been one of the best decisions I've ever made to help improve my health and lifestyle. So far, I have lost 15 lbs on Weight Watchers. With their help, I have incorporated meal prepping with low fat, nonfat, and zero-sugar recipes. In addition to this, I have begun to exercise regularly. From this experience, I have learned that in order to stay healthy, I need to make a lifestyle change instead of a temporary diet restriction. My failed attempts at weight loss in the past were due to temporary diets such as Keto, vegetarian which I personally could not sustain for a long period of time. I simply did not have to determine or will to permanently cut out certain foods from my diet altogether. But with Weight Watchers I can still enjoy meals that I have always eaten. Moving forward when grocery shopping I will continue to reach for food items that are lower in fat and carbs. I will also limit the number of times I eat out each week. Furthermore, being consistent with gym exercises will better allow me to keep the weight that was already lost. I am currently a physician assistant student studying medicine with plans on being a primary care provider. My profession is another motivating factor that will help me stay healthy by wanting to set a positive example for my patients on living a healthy life. Another motivating factor in my life is friends and family who encourage me and join me at the gym to help hold myself accountable with regular exercise. My hope is that the healthy lifestyle I choose to live will be inspirational to patients and encouraging on the positive impacts lifestyle can have on health outcomes. Health outcomes affected by healthy lifestyles include hemoglobin a1c levels to prevent diabetes or high cholesterol that put patients at risk for cardiovascular disease. Lastly, if chosen to win this scholarship I will be even more so motivated to continue to pursue healthy lifestyle behaviors.

After many nights of eating out on DoorDash during the COVID-19 pandemic, I gained over 40 pounds in 1 year. At my follow up annual physical my doctor suggested that I join Weight Watchers to help combat the amount of weight I was putting on. I joined Weight Watchers in November of 2022 weighing in at 162 lbs. My decision to follow through with joining and sticking with Weight Watchers has been one of the best decisions I've ever made to help improve my health and lifestyle. So far, I have lost 15 lbs on Weight Watchers. With their help, I have incorporated meal prepping with low fat, nonfat, and zero-sugar recipes. In addition to this, I have begun to exercise regularly. From this experience, I have learned that in order to stay healthy, I need to make a lifestyle change instead of a temporary diet restriction. My failed attempts at weight loss in the past were due to temporary diets such as Keto, vegetarian which I personally could not sustain for a long period of time. I simply did not have to determine or will to permanently cut out certain foods from my diet altogether. But with Weight Watchers I can still enjoy meals that I have always eaten. Moving forward when grocery shopping I will continue to reach for food items that are lower in fat and carbs. I will also limit the number of times I eat out each week. Furthermore, being consistent with gym exercises will better allow me to keep the weight that was already lost. I am currently a physician assistant student studying medicine with plans on being a primary care provider. My profession is another motivating factor that will help me stay healthy by wanting to set a positive example for my patients on living a healthy life. Another motivating factor in my life is friends and family who encourage me and join me at the gym to help hold myself accountable with regular exercise. My hope is that the healthy lifestyle I choose to live will be inspirational to patients and encouraging on the positive impacts lifestyle can have on health outcomes. Health outcomes affected by healthy lifestyles include hemoglobin a1c levels to prevent diabetes or high cholesterol that put patients at risk for cardiovascular disease. Lastly, if chosen to win this scholarship I will be even more so motivated to continue to pursue healthy lifestyle behaviors.

As an African American female physician assistant student, this scholarship would help me to conitnue my studies. Personally, diversity in medicine is important as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a wholistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, it is important that a health care provider is active and aware of the challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This allows for a provider-to-patient relationship while creating opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID 19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options have helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 help lines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication with our patients to help reduce health care disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID19. During this pandemic, I have reflected on my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her health care providers and local pharmacy make sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school, I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

As an African American female Physician assistant student, I have had to perservere through tough times due to obstacles faced based on race class and gender. Personally, diversity in medicine is important as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a holistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, it is important that a health care provider is active and aware of challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. As an African American female and first generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID 19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options has helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 help lines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication to our patients to help reduce health care disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID19. During this pandemic I have reflected about my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her health care providers and local pharmacy makes sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

As an African American female PA student, perseverance means that you never give up despite obstacles thrown at you due to race, class and gender. Personally, diversity in medicine is important as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a holistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a 2nd year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low-income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, it is important that a health care provider is active and aware of the challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This helps educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID 19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options has helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 help lines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication to our patients to help reduce health care disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID19. During this pandemic I have reflected about my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her health care providers and local pharmacy makes sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

As an African American female PA student, this scholarship is important to me to help pay off my student loans while in school studying medicine. Personally, diversity in medicine is important as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a holistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low-income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, it is important that a health care provider is active and aware of the challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This allows for a provider-to-patient relationship while creating opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. I plan to address my current student loan debt with the help of funds from this scholarship. Additionally, I plan to address my future student loan debt by managing my paychecks once I start working upon graduation this August 2023. I plan to take a percentage of each paycheck and put it toward each monthly student loan payment. Working in healthcare through the COVID 19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options has helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 help lines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication to our patients to help reduce health care disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID19. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

As an African American female PA student, this scholarship is inspirational to me. Personally, diversity in medicine is important as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a holistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low-income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, it is important that a healthcare provider is active and aware of the challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This allows for a provider-to-patient relationship while creating opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first-generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID-19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options have helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 helplines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication with our patients to help reduce healthcare disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID-19. During this pandemic, I have reflected on my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her healthcare providers and local pharmacy made sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student. Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduating PA school I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

One might question the role community service in medicine plays in promoting the PA profession. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role to help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to care to populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, it is important that a health care provider is active and aware of challenges patients face in their community. One way to become active is through community service. This allows for a provider to patient relationship to establish and creates opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. Working in healthcare through the COVID 19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options has helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 help lines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication to our patients to help reduce health care disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID19 so they can decipher what is true from the misinformation from media sources, thus helping them care for their families. During this pandemic I have reflected about my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her health care providers and local pharmacy makes sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student . Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

One might question the role community service in medicine plays in promoting the PA profession. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role to help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to care to populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, it is important that a health care provider is active and aware of challenges patients face in their community. One way to become active is through community service. This allows for a provider to patient relationship to establish and creates opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. Working in healthcare through the COVID 19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options has helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 help lines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication to our patients to help reduce health care disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID19 so they can decipher what is true from the misinformation from media sources, thus helping them care for their families. During this pandemic I have reflected about my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her health care providers and local pharmacy makes sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student . Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

One might question the role community service in medicine plays in promoting the PA profession. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role to help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to care to populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, it is important that a health care provider is active and aware of challenges patients face in their community. One way to become active is through community service. This allows for a provider to patient relationship to establish and creates opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. Working in healthcare through the COVID 19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options has helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 help lines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication to our patients to help reduce health care disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID19 so they can decipher what is true from the misinformation from media sources, thus helping them care for their families. During this pandemic I have reflected about my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her health care providers and local pharmacy makes sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student . Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

One might question the role community service in medicine plays in promoting the PA profession. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role to help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to care to populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, it is important that a health care provider is active and aware of challenges patients face in their community. One way to become active is through community service. This allows for a provider to patient relationship to establish and creates opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. During this pandemic I have reflected about my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her health care providers and local pharmacy makes sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student . Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.

As an African American female PA student, this scholarship is inspirational to me. Personally, diversity in medicine is important as a future healthcare provider because each patient is unique. The recognition of our differences including race, class, gender, and religious beliefs provides a wholistic approach to patient care. Diversity brings new ideas and varying perspectives, which in turn, creates opportunities for challenges to be approached from new angles. I am currently a second year Physician Assistant (PA) student on my journey to becoming a primary care family medicine provider in low income communities. The role of the PA is a collaborative and supportive role. PA's help aid in bridging gaps in medicine by increasing access to healthcare for populations most in need. In order to bridge these gaps in providing care, it is important that a health care provider is active and aware of challenges patients face based on their demographics and community. This allows for a provider-to-patient relationship while creating opportunities to help educate the community on how to stay healthy. As an African American female and first generation college student, representation through diversity and equality in medicine are topics that I am truly passionate about. Working in healthcare through the COVID 19 pandemic has taught me how to be able to relate and understand patient needs and enabled me to better provide an array of services to better help them, and I’m grateful to be a part of aiding in the solution. My passion has been to meet the needs of patients since COVID-19 cases started to rise. It is important that patients continue to have access to and remain compliant on the use of their maintenance drugs for chronic diseases during social distancing. I have seen that prescription delivery options has helped patients stay compliant so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort of their homes. Additionally through my telemedicine doctor visits online training in PA school I have gained an appreciation for 24/7 help lines for our patients to call in with clinical questions to help indicate telltale signs of what warrants an emergency room visit. Our PA problem has also been effective in our curricula by learning the importance of communication to our patients to help reduce health care disparities within our communities by starting to address certain stigmas. In doing so we can help our patients be more informed about COVID19. During this pandemic I have reflected about my own family members, especially the elderly who are immunocompromised and have a hard time getting around. Despite troubling times, it has been nice to know that there have been services implemented and dedicated to making life a little bit easier. For example, my paternal grandmother who lives in Virginia has a hard time traveling by herself due to health issues, the realization that her health care providers and local pharmacy makes sure that she has a consistent full supply of medication without her having to leave the comfort of her home has been a huge relief. My grandmother has been battling cancer for over 20 years and she is one of the reasons I chose this journey as a PA student . Working in healthcare during this time allows us to be able to provide our patients with options when it seemed as though options were nonexistent due to social distancing. Upon graduation of PA school I believe I can bring the importance of community service outreach to help better the quality of life of patients by knowing the importance of creating options and alternatives during troubling situations.