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Amanda Snyder is in her third year at ��������ϲʹ������� University and is pursuing an education in physician assistant studies. She was so kind to answer some questions about why she chose ��������ϲʹ�������, and her life as a physician assistant student at ��������ϲʹ�������. 

Why did you choose ��������ϲʹ������� and what has been your favorite part thus far?

I first learned about ��������ϲʹ������� during my junior year of high school, while researching schools with five-year Physician Assistant Programs. I immediately fell in love with campus, and knew I wanted to go to ��������ϲʹ������� the first time I visited campus. Everyone seemed so friendly, the campus is gorgeous, and the program is one of the best in the area, as well as being nationally ranked. Just over four years later, I still feel the same way as I did the first time I visited. My favorite part was helping to run the Mr. ��������ϲʹ������� pageant in February 2020 with the Griffin Guides. There was lots of planning that went into it, but the people made it fun!

Why did you choose to become a Physician Assistant (PA)?

I knew I wanted to go into the medical field for the majority of my life. In high school, I started to narrow down my search into which area of the field I wanted to work in. I knew I wanted to do more of the diagnostic side of medicine, which ruled out nursing. I also knew I wanted to have the flexibility to work in multiple specialties throughout my life, which ruled out medical school. Because of this, I first learned about PAs. After shadowing PAs and other members of the healthcare community, I knew that a PA would be the best fit for me.

What are you involved in, both in and outside of ��������ϲʹ�������?

On campus, I am the current president of the Volleyball Club, I am a member of the Physician Assistant Student Society, I am a member of the Love Your Melon Club, play intramural volleyball and I am also a Griffin Guide. Outside of ��������ϲʹ������� I am a PIAA certified official for middle and high school girls’ volleyball in the Greensburg area. I am also a Rehabilitation Nursing Technician at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Mechanicsburg, Pa. 

What are some of your plans for the future?

After graduating, I hope to do a fellowship in a more specific field of medicine to further my knowledge and experience levels. I am unsure of what field at this moment. I also plan on moving down south because I am NOT a fan of the cold weather.

Is there any advice that you would give to new, incoming or prospective University students?

I would tell prospective students to take the time to step out of their comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to take classes outside your area of expertise, for example, I took Metalsmithing and it was one of my favorite classes in my undergraduate career. Do the random activities that you’re not too sure you’ll like, or go on that mystery trip, they are lots of fun! These four years will go a lot faster than you would think, so make sure to take the time outside of studies to make memories.