From Refugee to Aspiring Physician Assistant: A Journey of Resilience and Compassion
From Refugee to Aspiring Physician Assistant
A Journey of Resilience and Compassion
My Story
My story begins in the winter of 1993. I was four years old, and my family and I were forced to flee our home in Azerbaijan as refugees of war. The collapse of Soviet Russia left the Armenian people vulnerable, and we were given just three days to evacuate. We eventually arrived in Cleveland, Ohio, with little more than the clothes on our backs and $50 in our pockets.
Life in America was a struggle. We lived in poverty for many years, relying on my father’s hard work and government assistance. However, my parents’ unwavering determination to provide us with a better future instilled in me a deep appreciation for education and a desire to give back.
The Spark of a Dream
My passion for helping others led me to explore a career in healthcare. Initially, I considered physical therapy after shadowing a therapist during treatment for a back injury. However, it was through my experiences working in a doctor’s office that I discovered my true calling: to become a Physician Assistant.
Discovering My Passion
Observing Physician Assistants in action and learning more about the profession solidified my decision. I began taking prerequisite courses for nursing and even completed a Nurse Assistant Certificate course in high school. Working alongside a doctor further deepened my understanding of the healthcare field and reinforced my desire to play a more significant role in patient care.
Overcoming Obstacles
My journey towards becoming a Physician Assistant has not been without its challenges. I had to overcome numerous obstacles to complete the necessary prerequisites at a community college and eventually transfer to Sacramento to pursue my Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology. Throughout this time, I continued to work full-time in the medical field, gaining invaluable experience and further solidifying my passion for patient care.
The Value of Education and Experience
I believe that my education and work experience have prepared me well for the demands of a Physician Assistant program. I have maintained a 4.0 GPA while working full-time as a CNA, demonstrating my ability to manage a demanding schedule and excel academically. My work in various healthcare settings has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of patient care, from administrative tasks to direct patient interaction.
Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations
Working in healthcare has taught me the importance of compassion, empathy, and patient advocacy. I strive to make every patient feel heard, understood, and cared for, especially during vulnerable moments. As a Physician Assistant, I hope to continue advocating for patients while playing a more active role in their clinical care.
Conclusion
My journey from a refugee to an aspiring Physician Assistant has been shaped by resilience, hard work, and a deep-seated desire to make a difference in the lives of others. I am confident that I possess the skills, knowledge, and compassion to excel in this profession and contribute meaningfully to the healthcare field.