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Saskya Simon

395

Bold Points

2x

Nominee

1x

Finalist

1x

Winner

Bio

I am a recent first-generation graduate from the University of Florida. One of the most significant challenges I have encountered as a student has been to break the limitations that society has placed upon me because of my race, sex, and nationality. While overcoming these obstacles, I have confirmed my love for medicine. Serving underprivileged populations is one of my priorities. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my dog, weightlifting and traveling. I recently traveled to Italy for the first time. I am naturally curious and creative and use my hobbies as an outlet for mental health.

Education

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science

Master's degree program
2022 - 2026
  • Majors:
    • Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other

University of Florida

Bachelor's degree program
2018 - 2022
  • Majors:
    • Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
  • Minors:
    • Health/Medical Preparatory Programs

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Hospital & Health Care

    • Dream career goals:

      Sports

      Track & Field

      Varsity
      2015 – 20194 years

      Awards

      • Most Valuable Player

      Future Interests

      Advocacy

      Politics

      Volunteering

      Philanthropy

      PAC: Diversity Matters Scholarship
      Winner
      At four years of age, my family and I emigrated from Haiti to the United States, hoping for new opportunities and a chance at a better life. Even at such a young age, I realized I was to face my new reality. During this transition, I felt a whirlwind of emotions as I entered a new journey. I watched my mother struggle financially and emotionally to provide for my family. My early years in the states were an adjustment for me, but these challenges ultimately created the foundation for my future. Growing up in a low-income immigrant household introduced me to the realities of the healthcare system from a young age. With my mother constantly in-between jobs, I spent much time without insurance and could not afford even the most basic levels of healthcare. I can recall when I noticed my eye was bothering me one afternoon. I ignored it because I knew seeing a doctor was not an option. But as weeks and months progressed, it became a recurrent issue. I was terrified at the possibility of losing my eyesight and burdened by a sense of hopelessness because I could not afford any medical bills without adequate health insurance. The realities of my situation angered me and ignited a passion for making healthcare accessible for all. Lack of access to health care is not just a problem for me; it's a global issue. Many adults cannot afford medical care, including preventive care for chronic diseases and significant health conditions. Throughout my career as a physician assistant, I want to prioritize dismantling these barriers to quality and affordable healthcare. I aspire to be a physician assistant who goes the extra mile for my patients and advocates for communities in need. As someone who has faced the consequences of no healthcare access, I am determined to create sustainable changes in medicine that allow healthcare to be more accessible for all. My college career has been filled with involvement in organizations dedicated to addressing health disparities. From working as a licensed practical nurse in low-income communities to volunteering as a research intern for Dr. Tuckers Health Disparities and Health Promotion lab, serving underprivileged populations has always been my priority. During the Covid-19 Pandemic, I got the opportunity to travel to California and administer the Covid-19 vaccines in rural areas. It was truly remarkable and transformative to serve in these areas and increase access to the vaccine in these medically underserved communities. With the support of like-minded peers and organizations like the PA.C, I will continue pursuing this mission of volunteerism while providing high-quality and compassionate healthcare to all. With my commitment to lifelong learning and a desire to grow and self-develop, I will be a physician assistant that goes above and beyond to see the progressive movement of this profession. I hope to impact the system at the ground level to help diversify the profession, create policies for improving physician assistant practice, and advocate for underserved populations as a PA. My goal as a physician assistant is to be culturally sensitive and create spaces where patients feel safe and have a positive healthcare experience that exudes understanding and compassion. I am committed to improving healthcare access, especially for the underserved. By cultivating a patient-provider relationship, I hope to inspire patients to be involved in their care and promote consistent care across all communities. My upbringing is what continues to inspire me to do so.