Bradeon A.
I was born and raised in Marietta, Ohio, and as I grew up, I had a great respect for my physicians and primary care providers. This respect, coupled with an interest in biology, led me to first believe I wanted to pursue an undergraduate education that would prepare me to become a physical therapist. However, I did more research about different careers in the medical field and discovered what a physician assistant was, which sparked my interest and led me to search for undergraduate programs I thought would prepare me for a post-graduate education at a physician assistant program. I then attended Marietta College and pursued a major in Health Science with a certificate in Leadership studies. During my time at Marietta College, I volunteered for two years at Marietta Memorial Hospital, where I developed strong relationships with many of the patients who came for weekly iron infusions or for intravenous chemotherapy. This experience, in addition to shadowing physician assistants at Marietta Memorial Hospital, only confirmed my desire to become a physician assistant who provides patient-centered care. I am excited and very grateful I get the opportunity to continue my education at Marietta College in the Physician Assistant Program Class of 2026.
Michael B.
I was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. I received my bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration from Kent State University in 2016 and obtained my license as a nursing home administrator shortly after. I loved serving the elderly population but felt that the role often required me to put the institution's financial needs above the patient's individual needs. I decided to make the transition back to academia in 2022 with my sights set on becoming a physician assistant. It is truly a dream come true to be matriculating into the Marietta College Physician Assistant program, and I’m ready to learn and to serve diverse patient populations.
Vladimir B.
Despite the name, I am not Russian whatsoever! I was born in El Salvador! I like to consider myself a pure-bred Salvadorian! I moved to Colorado to reside with my family when I was 5 and have lived here for the past 22 years. I’ve had a unique perspective growing up from a diverse background and being a DACA recipient. I’m grateful for my journey and the skills and ambition I have derived from it. I consider myself a testament to resilience and perseverance.
I’m a first-generation student who graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder in 2018 with a degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, with previous hopes to go into veterinary medicine. However, after heavy deliberation, I made the choice to redirect my career path. I’m elated to have stumbled upon the PA profession and I’m ecstatic to pursue it in its entirety! I’ve worn many hats and worked in a variety of fields while accruing patient care hours for PA school, such as orthopedics, dentistry, optometry, and, most recently, dermatology. Each opportunity further solidified that I made the right choice to pursue a career in human health. My journey here has been just that, but I can’t wait to see what change I can create and what I can accomplish after graduation from Marietta College’s PA program! Not to mention, I want to continue to make my family proud as the first one in the family (and my extended family) to attend a Master’s Program! Here’s to never giving up, despite the tribulations.
Kendall B.
From a young age, I always knew I wanted to pursue a career designed to serve and help others. Starting at Otterbein University in 2020, healthcare was an obvious choice to go into. As a freshman, I got the amazing opportunity to shadow an Emergency Physician Assistant and immediately saw myself in the field. Towards the end of my freshman year, I had a heart surgery that allowed me to see how Physician Assistants can collaborate and perform alongside other medical personnel. I continued my shadowing among various PA specialties and worked as a PSA in Riverside Methodist Hospital’s Emergency Department and Grant Medical Center’s Emergency Department. I am very blessed God has given me the support of my amazing parents, friends, and advisors who helped me get here. I am so grateful to be a part of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program class of 2026. I cannot wait to see where this journey will take me!
Emma B.
I grew up in Westerville, Ohio, and attended St. Francis DeSales High School. I was born and raised Catholic with a big emphasis on volunteer work. At DeSales, I pursued many science and math classes, learning that I loved to be educationally challenged. Turning to medicine seemed like one of the best ideas for me when it came to enrolling in college. I went to Capital University, where I majored in biology and minored in chemistry. This is where my adoration for the medical field began to grow. The demanding courses that I took kept me interested and intrigued in the sciences, with an emphasis on studying humans. After graduating in 2022, I became a multi-skilled technician at Mount Carmel St. Ann’s Hospital. For two years, my role included phlebotomy, bladder scans, vitals, EKGs, and a lot of patient care. The experience that I accrued from this hands-on job has shown me that my calling is in the medical field. The nurses and doctors that I work alongside have not only taught me the mechanical expertness of working bedside, but also the empathy needed to connect to patients and develop trust. Growing up, I was always involved in many sports with a lot of emphasis on a team mentality. I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to play basketball in college, where I developed these team skills even more. By working in the medical field, I have experienced these same competencies being used day in and day out. I love being a part of something bigger than myself and knowing my role to play in order to help others. The connection that I have made with my patients through medicine has been the most fulfilling career choice. I am extremely excited to pursue my journey at Marietta College, building more relationships and expanding my knowledge.
Faith B.
I was born in Parkersburg, West Virginia, where I lived with my two brothers until I was 8 years old. Over the next six years, we moved to Colorado, then Georgia, and finally back to the Mid-Ohio Valley. After I graduated from Parkersburg South in 2018, I completed my bachelor’s degree in Biology at Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 2022. At F&M, I was involved in my student government, and I worked as a peer academic coach, which was the most rewarding part of my undergraduate experience. I’ve been drawn to a career in healthcare since I was a little girl, and I would always tell people when they asked what I wanted to be when I grew up that I was going to take of people with cancer. However, I was uncertain of which role I was best suited for until after I graduated from F&M. Shortly after graduation, I moved back to Marietta and started working as a Patient Care Technician and Health Unit Coordinator on the hospice and oncology unit at Marietta Memorial Hospital. In this position, I had the opportunity to work closely with a variety of healthcare professionals and, most importantly, I learned how essential teamwork is to providing high-quality patient care. When a coworker asked me if I had ever considered PA school, something finally clicked, and I realized that it was a perfect fit for me. As a PA, I would like to stay in the MOV region, and I hope to make all my patients feel safe and in control of their care. I am thrilled to be a part of the Class of 2026!
Madison C.
I was born and raised in a small rural town called Sparta, Ohio, and I became interested in healthcare from taking care of my three other siblings and their injuries that occurred in rural life. I attended Marietta College where I received bachelor’s degrees in health science and neuroscience with a minor in leadership studies, and played basketball. During the summers, I worked as a nurse aide in several nursing and rehabilitation facilities. This experience gave me many invaluable skills, the most important being a better bedside manner. In my free time I enjoy doing anything outdoors, puzzles, and trying to make people laugh. I feel incredibly blessed to continue my journey at Marietta’s Physician Assistant Program.
Paetyn C.
I was born and raised in the small rural town of Portsmouth in southern Ohio. I attended Shawnee State University, where I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biomedical science with a minor in microbiology in 2024. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to take an advanced human anatomy course with cadaver dissection as an undergraduate student and come back as a Teaching Assistant for the same class during my senior year at Shawnee State. I have also been able to gain incredibly useful experience as a certified nursing assistant on an inpatient rehabilitation unit at Southern Ohio Medical Center, where I have worked since 2021. This experience and shadowing opportunities played a huge part in solidifying my desire to become a physician assistant. Marietta College has always been my dream school, and I am so excited to be in the MCPA class of 2026 cohort! I can’t wait to see what the next couple of years have in store for me, and I look forward to learning all the ins and outs of being an amazing PA.
Keaton C.
I was raised in Upper Sandusky, Ohio, and graduated from Miami University in 2024 with a bachelor's degree in kinesiology. I have always been interested in the medical field throughout my exposure to my own injuries along with hospitalizations involving my family. Working as a patient care assistant as an undergrad solidified my desire to work as a provider in order to help other people when they need it the most. My passions of ultra-running and hiking give me the desire to help others be the healthiest and happiest versions of themselves, and I hope to carry this into my career. I am so grateful for this opportunity at Marietta College and cannot wait for this next step in my journey.
Derek D.
I grew up in Columbus, Ohio, and attended The Ohio State University, earning a bachelor of science in public health and sociology with a minor in pharmaceutical science. After graduating, I was unsure what career to pursue, but I knew I wanted to be in healthcare. I decided to apply for positions at a local hospital to gain exposure to all roles on the healthcare team and began working as an operating room assistant in 2021. I am fortunate to have worked alongside many incredible Physician Assistants in the OR who have provided me with opportunities to shadow during days in the clinic; these shadowing hours helped me solidify my desire to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant. Seeing patients at different stages of their care gave me a complete understanding of how impactful quality care from PAs can be, from initial encounters while shadowing to assisting during procedures at work and hearing patients talk about relief from pain and express gratitude during post-op appointments. Since beginning my role in surgical services, I have scrubbed in and assisted on over a thousand cases across specialties, including orthopedics, general surgery, ENT, and endocrinology. I am beyond appreciative of all the experience, mentors, and friends that I have gained along the way, and now I am excited to continue my education as a member of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program Class of 2026!
Tanya D.
My passion for becoming a physician assistant (PA) first began when I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism at the age of 8. I met a pediatric PA at the children’s hospital who sparked my interest in the field. By partaking in medical clubs and shadowing, I became committed to becoming a PA, as I realized it would enable me to combine using medical skills with personal human interaction. I graduated from Wayne State University with a Nutrition major and a Health Psychology minor. Outside of medicine, I love traveling and dancing, and I am an avid Detroit Pistons fan. I am looking forward to my time at Marietta College and am excited to develop my medical knowledge and expand my procedural skills in the PA program. I am so grateful to continue my journey at Marietta College and am looking forward to building everlasting friendships with my future colleagues and creating new memories.
Angelica D.
I had lived in seven different states — most recently in Lorton, Virginia — before attending college in Pennsylvania. In 2024, I graduated from The Pennsylvania State University with a bachelor’s degree in biology. During my time as an undergrad, I had the opportunity to teach a freshman research lab, which fostered a passion for both teaching and helping others, both of which paved a path for me to pursue work in the medical field. I also worked as an EMT for a neighboring town, which opened my eyes to the lack of specialized healthcare that can be seen across many small towns. It was here that I fell in love with treating patients, building connections, and giving back to my community. I am excited to be a part of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program Class of 2026 and continue my journey of becoming a physician assistant!
Jess E.
Growing up in both Michigan and Germany, I had the unique opportunity to experience two distinct cultures, learn two different languages, and gain insight into diverse perspectives. After coming back to the U.S., I graduated from the University of Michigan (Go Blue!) in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology and in German. I was able to spend a summer in Hamburg, Germany, at the Marien Hospital, working alongside professionals in geriatrics and neurology. My academic journey led me to various career paths, from teaching to research to veterinary medicine. However, it was my role as a medical assistant at the University of Michigan’s Health Service that strengthened my passion for patient care. I absolutely love helping patients with their healthcare needs and navigating them through the complexities of the medical field. As a physician assistant, I look forward to deepening my impact on patients’ healthcare journeys. I am excited to expand my knowledge, make lasting memories, and start my next chapter as a part of the MCPAP Class of 2026!
Racquel E.
My desire to work in medicine derived from my personal experience as a patient growing up. I was born with a tethered spinal cord that was repaired at birth, and many years later had two hip surgeries to repair a torn labrum. My experience with knowledgeable, committed, and compassionate medical professionals has shaped my goals to one day embody these same qualities. I grew up in Cranberry Township, a suburb north of Pittsburgh. I studied exercise physiology at West Virginia University. While in school, I worked as a certified nurse aide where I was able to get invaluable hands-on patient care experience caring for residents on a skilled nursing floor. Upon graduating from WVU in 2023, I decided to take a year off and work as a full-time medical assistant resource at WVU Medicine outpatient clinic. Working as a resource in an outpatient setting allowed me the opportunity to work in many different departments, gaining knowledge and experience throughout many areas of medicine. Through shadowing and working alongside many physician assistants, I was able to see first-hand the value of the PA profession, which solidified my choice to pursue this career. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program class of 2026, and I look forward to all that is ahead of me on my path to becoming a PA!
Jared F.
Growing up in the tight-knit community of Newport, Ohio, I discovered my passion for serving others early on as a volunteer firefighter. Later on, I traded my bunker gear for trauma shears, leading me to graduate from Marietta High School with my EMT-Basic certification. My journey into the medical field took a significant step forward when I shadowed a Cardiology PA at Marietta Memorial Hospital. This experience not only solidified my desire to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant but also instilled in me the belief that I could excel in this challenging yet immensely rewarding profession. While in college full-time, I embarked on a path of continuous learning and growth, attending night classes to obtain my Advanced EMT certification. Over the past five years, I've dedicated myself to serving as a volunteer Advanced EMT with the Little Muskingum Volunteer Fire Department and Matamoras EMS here in Washington County. My time in EMS has given me invaluable experience in advanced life support skills and autonomy while providing emergency medical care to my community. In 2023, I proudly graduated from Marietta College with a B.S. in Health Science and a minor in Psychology. This educational journey has not only equipped me with a strong foundation in healthcare but also reaffirmed my conviction that I've found my niche in medicine. Outside of medicine, I enjoy volunteering at my local food pantry, listening to music, fishing, and golfing. My heart is deeply rooted in my community, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue my medical education right here at home at Marietta College. I am committed to leveraging my experiences, skills, and unwavering drive to become a higher-level healthcare provider, making a lasting difference in the lives of those I serve.
Kaylee G.
I began my journey with medicine at four years old when I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Experiencing first-hand the mental, physical, and social effects of chronic illness and diagnosis, I grew a passion for providing a compassionate patient-care experience. I joined the healthcare field as a pharmacy intern and nursing assistant and felt instantly inspired by the mission of team-centered care. When I discovered the physician assistant field, I knew immediately it would allow me to connect with patients and other professionals in the perfect environment for my personal strengths. I am originally from Chillicothe, Ohio, and graduated from the University of Toledo in 2023 with a degree in biochemistry. I can’t thank my family enough for supporting me throughout my journey in healthcare, as a patient, and now a professional. I am so excited and honored to join a community of successful Pioneer PAs with the Marietta College Physician Assistant Class of 2026!
Mackenzie G.
Hello! My name is Mackenzie, and I was raised in the small town of McArthur, Ohio. Since I was little, a large part of me always wanted to pursue a career in health care. Seeing my mom work as a nurse inspired me, and I was always intrigued to learn more about illnesses and advances in the healthcare system. My decision to follow a PA track stemmed from the fact that I could practice in multiple fields of medicine, and also get to care for and support individuals from many different backgrounds and health histories. Coming from a small town originally, Marietta won me over. Not only is it somewhat close to home, but the small campus and class size combined with the support of the community was amazing. While completing my undergraduate degree here, I knew this was where I wanted to continue for graduate school. I am so excited to continue expanding my knowledge and skills, and I am so grateful to be a part of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program Class of 2026.
Eric G.
Hello, my name is Eric. I was born and raised in the rural town of Edgerton, Ohio, where I graduated from high school in 2020. My pursuit of a career in the medical field began at an early age as I was inspired by my father, who served our community as a volunteer EMT. I continued this plan by attending The Ohio State University, where I graduated with magna cum laude honors and a degree in pharmaceutical sciences. During my time as a Buckeye, I worked both as an at-home care PCA for individuals with developmental disabilities as well as a pharmacy technician. These experiences, coupled with the opportunity to shadow a Physician Assistant, served to affirm my career aspirations. As I prepared for the path to PA school, I also served as an executive board member of the First-Generation Physician Assistant Club. I am grateful and excited to be a member of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program Class of 2026! I am hopeful that this esteemed program will allow me to become the best Physician Assistant possible.
Addison H.
I was born and raised in Marietta, Ohio. I attended The Ohio State University as a pharmaceutical sciences major for my undergraduate education. I served as a resident care assistant at the Glenwood Community in Marietta and as a patient care associate at the James Cancer Hospital in Columbus. My interactions with patients and their families have continued to inspire me to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant. After living away from home for several years, it is a privilege to return to complete my education at MC’s PA program. I look forward to the opportunities that I will have to give back to my community throughout PA school and after graduation! Go Pios!
Arlena J.
I originally hail from Dallas, but I graduated with honors from Texas Tech University in West Texas with a degree in biochemistry. While completing my undergraduate course, I was a founding member of the Raider Medical Screening Society (RMSS), which provided free medical screenings to community members. Here, I found my dedication for community service, leadership, and volunteering. I am very excited to move to Ohio and achieve my dream of becoming a health professional with the incredible people at Marietta College! In my free time, I am an avid basketball fan and enjoy hiking, baking, reading, and spending time with friends and family.
Rachel K.
I was born and raised in the small town of Colliers, West Virginia. Upon graduation, I moved to Marietta, Ohio, to continue my academic and softball career at Marietta College. I graduated in 2024 with my bachelor’s degree in health sciences and minors in psychology and leadership. Throughout my undergraduate career, I shadowed multiple health providers, unsure of my future occupation. It was not until the fall of my junior year, when I shadowed an orthopedic surgery PA, that I learned about the PA profession and the diversity this career choice offers. Marietta College’s PA Program allows me to provide quality healthcare to the Appalachian population while also working in a small-town environment. Outside of academics, I enjoy hiking, kayaking, playing sports, spending time with friends, working out, and traveling.
Madeline L.
I grew up in Howell, Michigan, before attending Albion College, where I graduated in 2023 with a degree in kinesiology while also being a student-athlete during my time there. Growing up I always knew I had a desire to work in healthcare, but it wasn’t until my time at Albion I knew I wanted to be a Physician Assistant. During my time at Albion, I was deciding between different careers in healthcare and my dad introduced me to an Urgent Care PA who allowed me to shadow and observe him. Immediately after learning more about what the PA profession is through shadowing and my own research, I knew the profession was for me. I then continued gaining experience working as a medical assistant in a chiropractic office. Once graduating in 2023, I began working as a medical assistant in an Orthopedic Surgery office. My experiences volunteering, shadowing, and working allowed me to see the different sides of medicine and showed me what type of PA I want to be. I want to have a positive impact on my patients and show them my empathy and compassion. I am excited to begin my journey at Marietta College in becoming a Physician Assistant and I am honored to be in my cohort!
Lauren L.
Due to my passion for learning, I have always had an interest in science courses and the human body. In high school, it became clear that healthcare was my calling. I wanted the opportunity to help others in the same way that it inspired me. I’ve played sports all my life and it showed me how I thrive in a team environment. After shadowing many different healthcare providers, I resonated with the physician assistants (PAs) and saw myself best aligning with this profession. I was raised in Cleveland, Ohio, and I attended the University of Dayton. I graduated in May of 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and a minor in Disability Studies. During breaks, I worked in my hometown as a state-tested nurse assistant (STNA) in a rehabilitation center. This solidified my love for patient interaction and medicine. I am blessed and excited to take the next step toward becoming a physician assistant at Marietta College!
Madyson M.
Hi everyone! I grew up in a suburb of Cleveland in my hometown of Westlake, Ohio. As a young teenager, I was unsure where my love of science and math would take me. My attention was drawn to medicine when I lost my grandpa to lung cancer and, not even a year later, my grandma unexpectedly. My feelings and questions surrounding their deaths drew me to consider healthcare as my vocation. They inspired me to investigate healthcare and the treatments for various diseases. With many jobs throughout high school, I gained experience and skills that I use every day. I worked as a cashier at Party City, delivered bags of ice for Olmsted Ice, and worked alongside my dad in his electrical and plumbing work. I knew I was a people person with strong communication skills and teamwork. I then pursued Pre-Medicine at The University of Dayton where I eventually graduated in 2022 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Science, majoring in Pre-Med and minoring in Medicine and Society. My love for medicine was furthered at UD through a medical mission trip to Panama, working as an STNA in a nursing home, and many different volunteer and shadowing roles in nearby hospitals. Throughout my gap years, I have gained more medical experience as a patient care nurse assistant in a Pediatric Psychiatry inpatient unit. My experiences opened my eyes to how PAs contribute to the healthcare field and helped me grow a strong appreciation for the career. As a future PA, I hope to learn how to provide the best treatment for my patients and help those in similar situations as my family when my grandparents passed away. The example my grandparents set for me will continue to inspire me to grow in my skills at Marietta College PA Program. I am excited and honored to learn and grow throughout my journey to becoming a future PA in the cohort of 2026!
Alanna M.
After graduating from the University of Akron in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy, I dove headfirst into the dynamic world of pediatric intensive care. For the past seven years, I have been a member of the team at Nationwide Children’s Cardiac ICU, where every day presents new challenges and triumphs. I have had the privilege of collaborating with brilliant colleagues who ultimately inspired me to advance my education and pursue the fulfilling career of a Physician Assistant. Having married a Belpre native and residing in the MOV for some time, there was no doubt the beautiful and prestigious school of Marietta College was my ultimate choice for PA school. Being accepted to this program has been nothing short of a dream come true. I am eager to not only learn but also to grow, and I aim to allow my experiences as an RRT and a MCPA student to deliver the highest quality of care to my future patients.
Selena M.
I have my career as a Radiology Tech to thank for paving the way to PA school. Despite playing an important role in healthcare in diagnostic imaging, I was often left wondering what happened to patients after they left my care. I was fortunate to see the practice of PAs and their role in healthcare through my job. I recognized that as a Physician Assistant, I would have the opportunity to see patient outcomes and have a greater influence on their care. Before graduating from the Marietta Memorial Hospital Radiologic Technology Program in 2021, I already had hopes of becoming a PA. I went on to enjoy working in X-ray, MRI, and CT, but I still knew I could have a bigger impact on patients as a PA. I received my bachelor’s degree from West Virginia University, Parkersburg, in 2023 and continued working as a Radiology Tech at Camden Clark while pursuing PA school. In my free time, I’m busy tending to our small farm in Pleasants County, West Virginia, and looking after my two spoiled yellow Labs, Hank and Harper. I am grateful for my next chapter and all that led me here. I am excited and honored to be part of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program Class of 2026!
Angie M.
Hello! My name is Angie, and I grew up in Grove City, Ohio, a suburb of Columbus, where I graduated from Grove City High School in 2020. Throughout high school, as I began taking more science classes, my passion for medicine started growing. Upon graduating from high school, I became the first person in my family to attend college. I started my undergraduate career at The Ohio State University in the fall of 2020, always knowing that I was meant to be a Buckeye. In college, I majored in pharmaceutical sciences and served on the executive board of the First-Generation Pre-PA Club, where I provided resources for other first-generation students. My passion for healthcare continued to grow through my experiences working as a pharmacy technician and as a patient care assistant for individuals with physical and developmental disabilities. Throughout college, I also enjoyed skiing with the Ski Club, going on hiking trips, and reading in my free time. After much hard work and dedication, I graduated from OSU in December of 2023 with Biological Sciences Scholars and Magna Cum Laude Honors. Now, I am beyond excited to continue my education at Marietta College in the class of 2026, where I'll be chasing my dream of becoming a Physician Associate!
Maddie P.
Hi! My name is Maddie. I enjoy spending time with the Lord and my family and friends, working out, listening to music, drinking coffee, and learning! I was born and raised in Newcomerstown, just over an hour north of Marietta. I graduated from Ashland University in May 2024 with a major in biology and minors in chemistry and religion. I have had to spend a considerable amount of time with various healthcare professionals throughout my life; I loved how they cared for me, and I knew I wanted to pursue a career in medicine. After learning about the PA profession during my sophomore year in college, I saw how much the career and education emphasized collaborative, patient-centered care, and I decided it was the best fit for me. I have carried a passion for serving others from a young age. A couple of mission trips to Cuba helped me see that I want to use these God-given passions on future medical mission trips. I aspire to serve in my community as well. I know this is where the Lord has placed me, and I am more than excited and grateful to walk in those plans with all my heart (Colossians 3:23) so that I can serve my future patients to the best of my ability. I am so excited to get started with the class of 2026! Go Pioneers!
Abigail R.
I claim North Carolina as my home, but I grew up all over the country, including Arizona, California, Utah, Ohio, and Nevada. Little did I know I would end up back in Ohio, although in a different town, for PA school. Growing up I had lots of passions and wanted to be a baker or librarian, then moved to more medical professions like veterinarian or doctor. However, once I learned about the PA profession, I knew I had found the one that would stick. I attended and graduated from Brigham Young University with a B.S. in biology. While there, I led a research team studying tardigrades and had fun doing ballroom dance. Once I graduated, my husband and I moved to Marietta to work with hopes I would be able to attend PA school at Marietta. I have been working as a scribe at Camden Clark in the Hematology/Oncology department and was blessed enough to be accepted into the PA program. I am excited to start the next chapter as a PA student at Marietta College.
Claire R.
I grew up in Cambridge, Ohio, and I attended Marietta College, where I received my bachelor’s degree in health science in 2024! Throughout my undergraduate career, I worked as a patient care technician at OhioHealth Southeastern Medical Center, and I was also a health coach for individuals in the Marietta community. While I have always known I wanted to work in the medical field as I got older, these experiences and patient encounters solidified my love for helping those around me! I am so excited to further my knowledge and skills at Marietta’s PA program to one day be able to give back and serve my community as a Physician Assistant!
Maya S.
I was born and raised in the city of Dearborn, Michigan, and attended Fordson High School. I went on to attend the University of Michigan-Dearborn, where I received a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences. As a child, I was always eager to learn and fascinated by science and medicine, so I knew I wanted to become a healthcare professional. While I completed my undergraduate degree and worked multiple healthcare jobs, I worked with closely with Physician Assistants and realized that this was the career I wanted to pursue. Outside of academics, I enjoy cooking, reading, and learning about the world. I am thrilled to be a part of Marietta College’s Physician Assistant Program. I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge and developing new skills with the Class of 2026!
Alexis S.
Growing up in West Virginia, I was a first-hand witness to how underserved the Appalachian population is when it comes to healthcare. Once I recognized this need in my community, I decided that I wanted to help fill it. I graduated from Marietta College in 2024 with a bachelor’s in health science. During my high school and college careers, I worked as a patient care technician at a local hospital and volunteered at other healthcare facilities. These experiences helped me to learn about the different healthcare professions and decide which one aligned with my ideals the best. I eventually learned of the PA profession and found that it checked all the boxes for me in terms of what I wanted in a career while also giving me the opportunity to help serve my community. I am very grateful for the opportunity to be a part of Marietta College's class of 2026 and pursue a career as a PA in the future!
Jenna S.
I grew up in the close-knit town of Waynesville, Ohio, where I fondly remember soccer matches at the community fields and playing outside with my younger brother. I spent my time at Waynesville High School cataloging macroinvertebrates in the Little Miami River, observing and dissecting animals from all of the major phyla, and using field guides to identify local flora and fauna. My interest in medicine and the human body grew from my love for the outdoors and my curiosity about the natural world. I moved across the state to earn my Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at Marietta College. My focus shifted toward human medicine as my studies led me through more advanced courses like anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, where I was exposed to the complexities and mysteries of the human body. I spent a summer semester abroad learning marine field ecology and a combination of Western wilderness medicine and Bahamian bush medicine. It was because of this opportunity that I reaffirmed my decision to pursue a career as a physician assistant. I formally explored the role physician assistants play in healthcare teams through shadowing and work experiences at hospitals near my home and college. I made deep connections with the families and patients I was meeting, especially in more rural areas where healthcare resources are limited. My senior capstone project explored chronic diseases in Appalachia, which sparked my interest in preventative medicine and the impact our lifestyles have on our health decades later. I remain curious about the aging process and the developmental stages we experience, which each bring their own challenges and celebrations. I hope to find fulfillment working in family medicine as I support patients of all ages in improving their health literacy and encourage them to become active participants in their healthcare.
Maria S.
I was born in Quito, Ecuador, but grew up in Northwest Ohio after I was adopted. Both of my parents work in healthcare, and I remember visiting them at work, which is where my interest in medicine started. I am a graduate of the University of Cincinnati, where I majored in health sciences. During my time as an undergraduate student, I was a patient care assistant in ICU step-down and on the GI floor, which exposed me to a large array of patients and showed me the importance of relationships. I also worked as a medical scribe at Cincinnati Children's, an experience that fostered relationships with other students, and providers, and expanded my knowledge of the PA profession. I am so excited to be a part of Marietta's PA program and look forward to the next two years!
Mya S.
Hello everyone! My name is Mya Stahl, and I am an Ohio native who grew up 45 minutes from Marietta. As long as I can remember, my interest has been sparked by everything related to health, science, and people. At the age of 9, I completed a first-aid project through 4-H and loved it. In high school, I was introduced to a variety of career options involving my interests and was fortunate enough to be directed to shadow a PA. That day, a professional title I had yet to learn immediately became the one I knew I wanted to pursue. Throughout my undergraduate career at Miami (Ohio) University, majoring in community nutrition, my desire was further fueled by science coursework, volunteering opportunities, and my hours as a patient care technician at Marietta Memorial Hospital. The culmination of these experiences has been rewarding and valuable.
I am very excited and proud to be a member of the Marietta Physician Assistant Program and become a PA-C!
Rachel T.
I grew up in a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio, and I graduated from Cleveland State University in 2023 with a degree in health sciences and a minor in biology. My fascination with the medical field began for me as a young child watching medical shows, being captivated by the cases, and wondering what it would be like to one day work in that environment. My interest in medicine and working in a field where I would be able to help people through science was solidified in high school, as I had my first real exposure to the healthcare field through internships in a few hospital settings. The first encounter I had with the physician assistant profession was during my sophomore year of undergrad when I was researching different healthcare careers. Once I began to research the more detailed aspects of the PA profession, I knew I had found the career path for me. I immediately put in a request to declare myself pre-PA at Cleveland State University and my journey to becoming a PA began. I worked as a nursing assistant in an assisted living facility as well as a pharmacy technician to gain more healthcare experience to really validate my interest in the field. I am extremely grateful and excited to be a part of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program Class of 2026!
Gabby T.
I was raised in Beavercreek, Ohio, and graduated from Marietta College with a Bachelor of Science in Health Science. Toward the beginning of college, I knew I wanted to enter the medical field because of my passion for helping others. During my sophomore year, I learned of the PA profession through my experiences as a health coach, volunteering at Marietta Memorial, and as a living kidney donor. In these roles, I was able to learn about the collaboration and versatility that coincide with the profession, and I instantly knew I wanted to pursue the career. As I continued to gain patient care experience within Marietta’s community, I quickly realized that I had a strong desire to work in underserved populations and bridge the healthcare gap that is very prevalent in rural areas. I am extremely excited to continue giving back to this community that I have fallen in love with throughout my undergraduate career and to continue my time as a pioneer!
Cole V.
I was born and raised in Toledo, Ohio, where I eventually attended The University of Toledo, which is about four hours northwest of Marietta. There, I majored in Biology and minored in Chemistry, graduating in May 2024. As a constantly sick and fragile kid, I was always in and out of doctors’ offices and hospitals, and in some backward way, this managed to pique my interest year after year in finding a career in the medical field. I had several jobs throughout my years of undergrad, but perhaps the most impactful was working as a Technician on the Toledo Hospital’s trauma floor. Here, I collected invaluable experiences and formed connections with many healthcare professionals, including PAs, who I am still friends with today. Throughout my time with some of these coworkers and PAs, they have helped me realize that a career as a Physician Assistant is the best choice for me and that joining the MCPAP Class of 2026 was the perfect location to get that career started.
Emma W.
I grew up in Jackson, Michigan. I achieved my bachelor's in allied health science and a minor in psychology from Grand Valley State University and graduated in 2023. After getting my certified nursing assistant license during my freshman year of college, I obtained some experience in long-term care facilities, where I grew my skills and gained valuable experience within the healthcare field. I also furthered my patient care experience in the hospital setting. This allowed me to see many different people with different levels of care and needs on the various floors. For as long as I can remember, being a provider has always been a big dream of mine. My experiences within the health care system, shadowing, and volunteer work only strengthened my desire and solidified further that I was going into the correct career as a Physician Assistant. I am beyond grateful to continue my education and journey to becoming a PA at Marietta College class of 2026.
Madhuri W.
Healthcare has always been my destined path. Along the journey, I encountered positive challenges, but here I stand, proud of my perseverance and determination. Originally from Nepal, I now proudly hold citizenship in the United States. My journey brought me here after completing med school in China, conducting research at Case Western Reserve University, and serving as a scribe at Cleveland Clinic before transitioning to a senior medical scientist role. Despite my passion for research, my heart yearned for direct patient care. Previous collaborations with PAs affirmed my calling. Thus, I worked on my prerequisite classes, GRE completion, and application submissions. I eagerly await the start of my new chapter at Marietta College, eager to contribute to humanity's well-being. Now residing in Vienna with my husband, our one-year-old daughter, and my teenage stepdaughter, I eagerly anticipate meeting classmates and collaborating to excel as healthcare providers.
Auva Z.
Growing up in Dublin, Ohio, I had many amazing opportunities to explore the various healthcare professions. Only when I attended Marietta College did I truly understand the PA profession. I started shadowing at Marietta Memorial Hospital and grew extremely passionate about the profession. From the various patient care jobs that I have held, I understood the benefits of patient education and the importance of individualized healthcare plans. I graduated from Marietta College in 2024 with a Bachelor's degree in Health Sciences and a minor in leadership. My excitement to become a PA has grown tremendously, and I cannot wait to continue my education at Marietta College!