The PA Path Podcast

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Gerard Marciano, Director of Physician Assistant Program at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York. Dr. Marciano shares his remarkable journey into the PA profession and reflects on the evolution of the field over his 20+ year career. Gain valuable insights as he discusses strategies for program directors to inspire students, highlights the unique aspects of his program, and offers advice for new program directors. Discover success stories of his graduates and unlock keys to student success in this engaging discussion.

This episode is sponsored by Lincoln Memorial University School of Medical Sciences. 

PA Path is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Beth Buyea, clinical associate professor at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts. Dr. Buyea shares her personal journey into the PA profession and sheds light on the barriers and challenges faced by today's first-generation applicants. Delve into her early experience working in adolescent care at a boarding school in Connecticut and her belief in a collaborative approach to patient care promotion. Discover the unique program at Tufts University, the milestones Dr. Buyea is proud of, and the vibrant culture she has cultivated. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the PA profession and what sets Dr. Buyea's program apart.

The PA Path Podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we speak with Dana Villmore, PhD, PA-C, assistant clinical professor and chair of admissions for the University of New England PA Program in Portland, Maine. Explore Dr. Villmore's personal journey into the PA profession, her transition from clinical practice to education, and delve into the distinctive aspects of the UNE program and curriculum. Gain insights into the quintessential applicant profile, discover the program's commitment to serving the Maine community, and explore how students are prepared for the evolving landscape of tomorrow's PA profession.

This episode is sponsored by Aquifer. 

The PA Path Podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Vanessa Bester, PA-C, PA program director at Augsburg University in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We discuss her fascinating journey into the PA profession, fueled by a deep commitment to serving underserved communities. Dr. Bester shares insights into her expertise in HIV medicine, primary care, and infectious disease and describes what sets her program at Augsburg University apart in the realm of PA education.

This episode is sponsored by Butler University Doctor of Medical Science Programs. 

The PA Path Podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we speak with Jasmina Cheeseman, PA-C, assistant professor of physician assistant studies at Franklin College in Franklin, IN. We discuss her transition from clinical laboratory science to the PA profession, advocacy, her journey into PA education, how applicants should prepare to stand out as a strong candidate, and what makes her program unique. 

This episode is sponsored by Butler University Doctor of Medical Science Programs. 

In this episode, we speak with Erika Brooks, CSPO, manager of admission services at the PA Education Association, and Olivia Ziegler, PA, chief experience officer at the PA Education Association. We discuss applicant experience and the CASPA process, advice for students who are thinking about applying to a PA program, the importance of letters of reference, and the timing for submitting an application.

This episode is sponsored by Aquifer. 

Show notes

Erika Brooks has worked in the graduate medical education industry for 12 years. As a seasoned Application services manager, she is passionate about improving the user experience and streamlining processes. In addition to managing the CASPA, she is also involved in educating PA programs on the benefits of including aspects of Holistic review in the admissions process. She also engages with those interested in the PA profession and Health Professions Advisors to ease anxiety around the application to process and dispel any myths about the profession. Erika currently serves as the PAEA staff partner to the CASPA Advisory Committee and assists in developing policies and procedures for CASPA. Her work in graduate admissions extends beyond PAEA as she served as a Co-chair for the CAS executives’ group. This group of healthcare association executives has oversite for application services for health professions, including OT, PT, Dental, Athletic Training, MD/DO etc . Outside of the office, Erika enjoys supporting Liverpool F.C., learning how to crochet, and traveling.

The PA Path Podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we speak with Brittany Booth, DMSc, PA-C, department head and program director for LSUHSC-New Orleans. We discuss her path to becoming a PA and her formal education training, her philosophy on teaching adult learners, preparing students to understand public health and community health implications, and how to be a competitive applicant. 

In this episode, we speak with Lt Col Kyle M. Johnston,  program director of the Interservice Physician Assistant Program (IPAP), 381st Training Squadron, Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, Texas. We discuss his path to becoming a PA, including taking advantage of the Health Professions Scholarship Program; differences in being a civilian PA and military PA; the value of military PAs in protecting our nation; his transition to education; and managing a program with an annual enrollment of 500 students.

In this episode, we speak with Lucy W. Kibe, DrPH, MS, MHS, PA-C, director of the Physician Assistant Program and associate professor at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science. We discuss her path to becoming a PA, her leadership role in the profession, working in academia, promoting social justice and mending gaps in healthcare, and creating a program around empowerment, diversity, growth and excellence (EDGE).

This episode is sponsored by NEJM Group education solutions.

The PA Path Podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we speak with Vanessa Blasic, PA-C, a certified lead PA specializing in men and women’s urologic health with Elite Robotic Surgical Consultants. We discuss her journey to PA school at the University of Southern California and her clinical career path, the PA's role in robotic surgery, paying off $300,000 in student loans, and climbing Mount Everest.

The PA Path Podcast is produced by Association Briefings.