Scholarship Recipient: Alexandra Theile

Tell us about the impact the scholarship has had on you.

The scholarship has helped me with my expenses for textbooks. Having this financial burden lifted has allowed me to focus better on my academic tasks and use textbooks to enrich my learning.

What is your favorite study spot on campus?

My favorite study spot on campus is at the tables outside Mabee Hall, the PA Building. On a nice day, it is very relaxing to get some fresh air while studying.

How has your degree program helped prepare you for your future career calling?

The HSU PA program has helped me learn not only the medical knowledge I will need to treat and diagnose patients effectively but also strengthen my professional skills so that I can effectively communicate with patients to educate them about their treatment plan. Our curriculum includes a wide variety of courses that have not only biological, but also psychological, physiological, and cultural concepts as well. I feel that the education I am obtaining will allow me to be a well-rounded PA that can connect with a diverse population of patients.

How has HSU impacted you?

HSU has impacted me by introducing me to great faculty and fellow students that feel like family. I love the close-knit environment of the HSU PA program and how everyone works together to be successful. It is also important to me to give back to the community and volunteer, so I appreciate that HSU views service as a priority.

What is next for you?

After I graduate, I hope to practice as a PA in the OB/GYN field because I find women’s health the most interesting right now. However, I am still excited to experience other specialties during clinical rotations and I am grateful that the physician assistant profession has lateral mobility that can allow me to practice in different fields of medicine without having to specialize.