Nariman A.
I was born and raised in Strongsville, Ohio, and graduated from Baldwin Wallace University with a bachelor's degree in health science and a minor in nutrition. I've always valued community and service as a proud Muslim, and working at local mosques during COVID and volunteering at vaccination clinics enhanced my understanding of the cooperative nature of healthcare outside of typical settings. I've been employed at CVS for three years as a pharmacy technician and immunizer. I also worked for University Hospitals for more than a year as a patient care nursing assistant in the float pool, and my enthusiasm for patient-centered treatment has been influenced by these experiences, and has overall solidified my decision to become a future PA! I can't wait to start my journey at Marietta College, develop my knowledge and abilities, and grow with this incredible group of students. I am very grateful and excited for this new chapter!
Yasmine A.
I was born and raised in Brunswick, Ohio. I had the opportunity to live outside of the United States for approximately five years in Abu Dhabi. Upon returning to the U.S., I attended Cleveland State University where I obtained a Bachelor's degree in Health Science with a minor in Biology. From a young age, I have always aspired to make a meaningful impact on the world, and I believe my calling lies within the healthcare field. As the middle child in my family, my siblings often refer to me as the "mom." I instinctively ensure that those around me are comfortable, frequently helping. This nurturing nature has become an integral part of my identity. My experience shadowing professionals in various specialties, including emergency medicine, dermatology, rheumatology, and a medical spa, has solidified my ambition to pursue a career as a physician assistant. These experiences have imparted valuable life lessons, shaping my perspective on medicine and providing insight into the physician assistant lifestyle. Through shadowing, I have come to understand the expectations and challenging responsibilities associated with becoming a physician assistant. Additionally, it has underscored the importance of patient interactions and the ability to navigate the barriers between healthcare professionals and patients. My goal is to be a physician assistant who makes patients feel welcomed and comfortable while utilizing my knowledge to address their illnesses with empathy, patience, and understanding. This career is rewarding for numerous reasons, including the satisfaction derived from a patient's smile during visits. As that vision turns into a reality, I carefully selected Marietta College to help me achieve my aspirations. After extensive research, I am confident that Marietta is the ideal institution for my education and professional development over the next two years as I embark on my journey to become a physician assistant.
Rachel B.
I have always loved learning, whether it was about dinosaurs, antique cars, or the blood flow of the heart. I was born in Royal Oak, Michigan, growing up in a small city of Metro Detroit called Berkley. To pursue my love for science I went to Albion College for undergrad, majoring in biology and receiving a minor in kinesiology. During my time there I worked as a nurse assistant in an assisted living facility. This would become my second job in healthcare, providing me with a unique outlook on life and a new desire to become a Physician Assistant. I moved to the hospital the following year, becoming an aid on a progressive unit. The experience was filled with learning opportunities, gaining new skills, and a love for patient care. The compassion and confidence I have gained from working will continue to shine through as I become a Physician Assistant. I am honored to have the opportunity to learn and grow at Marietta’s PA program.
Larissa B.
Hello, my name is Larissa. I grew up in Mount Vernon, Ohio, a smaller town about two hours northwest of Marietta. In December of 2023, I graduated from The Ohio State University with a degree in biology. During my undergraduate years, I gained hands-on experience as a patient care assistant in the progressive care unit at my local hospital and as a home health aide for elderly families in my community. These experiences reinforced my passion for patient care and taught me the importance of empathy, adaptability, and teamwork in the medical field. Beyond my professional and educational experiences, I enjoy spending time outdoors, hiking, reading, and relaxing with my cat. I am very excited for my journey at Marietta College and look forward to all the opportunities ahead!
Maddie B.
Hi there! I was born in Cincinnati, OH, but I was raised majority of my life in the suburbs of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. For undergraduate, I went to Xavier University with a major in Biomedical Sciences and a minor in Psychology. After graduating, I took a couple gap years working as a float CNA at a hospital and a patient care technician at an infusion center. Outside of work and school, I love hanging out with friends and family, going on walks, reading, baking, and trying out new coffee places. I can't wait to return to Ohio to start my PA journey at Marietta College!
Blake B.
Growing up in the small, rural, and tight-knit community of Bryan, Ohio, I discovered my passion for helping others early in my life. This was strengthened by my experience as a medical scribe in my local emergency room and was further solidified through my time as a patient care technician at a pediatric ophthalmology clinic associated with Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, OH. I graduated from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. Along my path to becoming a PA as a Buckeye, I had the privilege of serving as the president of the Future Buckeye Physician Associates Club. I am so excited and honored to be a member of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program of 2027!
Erin B.
I was raised in Westerville, Ohio and graduated high school from St. Francis DeSales in 2020. I’ve always enjoyed science classes as long as I could remember and it was in high school that I really leaned into this fascination. I took every advanced science class I could, including anatomy and physiology. It was this class that peaked my interest in the medical field and led me to major in biology at Capital University where I graduated in 2024. I began working in a hospital as a multi skilled technician my senior year to experience medicine first-hand. Within this job, I worked closely with nurses and interacted with PA’s and doctors. Having this hands-on care with patients led me to want to further my education in the medical field and becoming a Physician Assistant felt like the natural way to do that. I am very thankful to God for leading me on this path and to my family, friends, and advisors who supported me every step of the way. I am very excited for this opportunity to be a part of this program and can’t wait to see where I end up in the next few years.
Celeste C.
I was born in China and adopted when I was 1 year old and have lived in Ohio ever since. Growing up, my parents always taught me to give back and serve others. I have been on many mission trips including Washington D.C., Tennessee, Puerto Rico, and Thailand. Participating in these mission trips has instilled in me the desire to serve marginalized groups and underserved communities. After my undergraduate career at Huntington University where I majored in Biology Pre-Med and played basketball, I worked as a patient care technician and phlebotomist. These patient care experiences solidified my love for patient care. A career as a Physician Assistant will allow me to use my skills and experiences to serve the underserved communities I care deeply about and bridge the gap for those needing high-quality healthcare. I am so grateful to be a part of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program Class of 2027!
Lauren D.
I grew up in Macomb, MI before attending Michigan State University where I graduated in 2024 with a degree in human biology and bioethics. My passion for healthcare and the PA profession started in high school and has only grown! I have since worked as an aide for spinal cord injury patients, in a rehab facility for children with neurological disorders, and as a medical assistant at a primary care office alongside PAs. I can’t wait to further my knowledge and experience at Marietta College and look forward to helping my future patients and community!
Tyler D.
I grew up in West Chester, PA, and graduated from Thomas Jefferson University with my bachelor’s degree in health science. From a young age, I was fascinated by how the human body works and I knew early on that I wanted to pursue a career in medicine. Working alongside physician assistants in a variety of settings, their compassion, knowledge, and drive inspired me to follow in their footsteps. As a patient care technician and a medical assistant, I gained valuable experience that deepened my passion for medicine. I’m very grateful for all the support from family, friends, and mentors who have aided me throughout my journey to PA school. Now, I am very excited to take the next steps toward becoming a PA as a part of Marietta College Physician Assistant Program Class of 2027!
Grace D.
I grew up in both Cleveland and a rural town in southeastern Ohio, and witnessing the healthcare disparities between these areas drove me to pursue a career in the medical field. After high school, I attended The Ohio State University majoring in Health Sciences with a plan to work in some area of healthcare. My mom has been a registered nurse for over 30 years, and I admired her knowledge and expertise in different areas of nursing, which led me to look for careers where I could do the same. The ability to work in multiple disciplines of medicine and see patients throughout their life stages is what attracted me to the PA profession. Throughout college, I worked for over three years as a nursing assistant on a stepdown surgical floor and in a long-term critical care facility. I absolutely love working with patients and as a team with nurses, therapists, and other healthcare workers. My favorite part of healthcare is that every day presents unique challenges and complex situations. I will be the first in my family to earn a master’s degree and I am so excited to be part of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program Class of 2027!
Claire D.
I was born and raised in a rural community just outside of Portsmouth, Ohio called Otway. After High School, I attended Ohio Dominican University in Columbus, Ohio, and graduated with a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science and a minor in Biology in 2025. During my time at Ohio Dominican, I became a mentor-student ambassador, writing and theology tutor, resident assistant, President of the Honors Program, and president of multiple student organizations including Salt and Light Campus Ministries, STEM Club, and Pre-PA Society! In working so closely with PA students and faculty within the student organization, volunteering at Southern Ohio Medical Center Hospice Services, working as a nursing assistant at Optalis Assisted Living, and becoming a Patient Support Assistant at OhioHealth Dublin Methodist Hospital on a Med-Surg floor, I discovered my passion for serving the sick and vulnerable and how becoming a PA would help me pursue that passion. Coming to Marietta College's PA program is such an honor. Being able to come back to southern Ohio to serve the community that raised me is such a blessing and I am so excited to use the skills I learn here to provide and advocate for my future patients.
Kyndall G.
My name is Kyndall and I was born and raised in Toledo, Ohio. I obtained my bachelor's degree from the University of Toledo in 2021, majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry. During that time, and for several years after, I was a certified nursing assistant at Toledo Hospital and eventually became a health care assistant at Planned Parenthood. For as long as I can remember I have desired to pursue a career in medicine however I wasn't always sure which career path I wanted to follow. Between my time in the hospital and planned parenthood, it became evident that the healthcare system was overwhelmed, and patients were routinely falling through the cracks. This is when I realized Physician Assistants have the opportunity to close the gaps, repair the brokenness of the healthcare system, and ensure the future of medicine. This realization along with several standout experiences working alongside a variety of medical professionals, led me to my choice to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant. I am ecstatic at the idea of learning from and assisting a physician while creating my own patient care style and I look forward to the lifelong learning that comes with a career in medicine. As a future provider, I hope to do better by using all that I have learned and will learn to help bring equity and patient centered care to the forefront of medicine and to overall be part of necessary change in the healthcare system. I am excited and honored to further my education here at Marietta College and look forward to everything this journey has to offer.
Molly G.
I grew up in Erlanger, Kentucky, and attended Simon Kenton High School (also the Pioneers!) and the Kenton County Academies of Innovation and Technology. There, I was introduced to the Women's Engineering Academy and thought mechanical engineering was the way to go. A diagnosis of ulcerative colitis and celiac disease at the age of 14 made me reconsider my plans. The Lord put numerous healthcare providers in my life to bring light to the PA profession. After researching it, I quickly fell in love and started to direct my path towards medicine. I graduated from Cedarville University in May 2025 with a bachelor's degree in Allied Health and minors in Health Psychology & Public Health, Psychology, Bible, and Women's Ministry. I volunteer as an EMT for the local fire department in Cedarville, which serves the village and township and our surrounding neighbors. I also work as a PCA on a chemical dependency unit at a hospital back home. Serving my patients in these roles has been a joy, and I cannot wait to deepen my knowledge and reach. Outside of medicine, I am an avid reader and love to lead discipleship groups and serve at my church. The Lord has been faithful in answering my prayers (Psalm 66:19-20). I am very thankful for the opportunity to study at Marietta College and continue my journey of becoming a physician assistant!
Isabelle H.
I grew up in North Olmsted, Ohio, and attended Holy Name High School, where I found my passion for helping others. Through many hours of volunteering and career shadowing, I learned the impact I could make on those around me and the fulfillment that comes from serving others. When it came time to begin my college search, Marietta College stood out to me because of its impressive PA program. After visiting campus, it was the perfect fit. Since then, I have fallen in love with the town and supportive community around me. As a college student, I balanced academics, playing for Marietta’s women’s soccer team while working at University Hospitals in Cleveland and volunteering at Marietta Memorial Hospital. These experiences exposed me to diverse individuals and opened my eyes to healthcare access in different communities. As a PA, I hope for the opportunity to work in an underserved area to bridge the gap in healthcare equity. I am excited about the role of a PA on the healthcare team and look forward to serving a diverse population of patients. I am also thrilled for two more years at such a special place, Marietta College. Go Pios!
Rosaline J.
I was born and raised in Lake Oswego, Oregon, a suburb of Portland and then attended Yonsei University in South Korea, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in economics with plans to work in corporate finance. However, a few life events led me to discover my passion for medicine, prompting me to switch paths and move back to Portland, where I obtained a pre-med post-baccalaureate at Portland State University. While in school, I gained experience as a CNA in a nursing home, a patient transporter at Providence Portland Medical Center, and a student medical assistant at Portland State University’s Student Health Center. During this time, I was introduced to the role of a PA and quickly realized it was the perfect fit for my career aspirations. In 2020, my fiancé and I moved to his hometown of Barlow, Ohio to open a coffee shop which has since expanded to three locations. I began working as an ER Tech at the Marietta Memorial Belpre Emergency Room, where I had the privilege of working alongside incredible PAs who had graduated from Marietta College. Hearing their positive experiences solidified my decision to make Marietta College my top choice. Outside of school, I love cooking, reading on my Kindle, and spending time at home with my fiancé and our two dogs—a mini bernedoodle named Calcifer and a morkie named Mochi. I’m honored and excited to be part of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program Class of 2027!
Emmah K.
I was born and raised in Zanesville, Ohio, and graduated from Marietta College with a bachelor’s in health science and a minor in leadership. I played four years of soccer while earning my degree and fell in love with the small town of Marietta. I’ve always had a passion for medicine that was fueled by its complexity and ability to challenge me, as well as the opportunity to help others. My experience working as a patient care assistant allowed me to learn more about the hospital system and how a healthcare team works to improve a patient’s wellbeing. This confirmed my desire to work in this setting. I look forward to learning how to best treat each patient that I encounter physically, mentally, and emotionally to restore and improve their health. I am so excited to be able to pursue my dreams as a member of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program Class of 2027!
Kahner L.
I grew up in Toledo, Ohio and attended Toledo Early College High School. Upon graduation at TECH, I was blessed to receive an Associate’s degree in Liberal Arts from the University of Toledo. After high school, I chose to work at St. Charles Hospital in Oregon, Ohio as a nursing assistant (2021) and also as a telemetry technician (2023). Those two jobs were the very start of my beautiful journey in healthcare. Working for 4 years as clinical support allowed me to be such a fluid part of each and every one of my patients’ care- and that was special to me. Putting a smile on a patient’s face after cracking a joke or helping them comb their hair will always be the highlight of my days at the hospital. I worked on the Progressive Care unit at St. Charles, and the nurses on that unit were my truly family. They taught me valuable clinical knowledge that I will never forget- even as a future Physician Assistant. Knowing how much good I’ve done for my patients in a supportive role was what ultimately inspired me to become a PA and deepen my impact. I want to help my patients battle the health disparities they may face in their local communities similar the one I grew up in. I graduated from the Mercy College of Ohio in December of 2024 with my Bachelor’s Degree in Biology- go Healers! I am truly blessed to begin my journey into PA school at Marietta College, and I can’t wait to see the positive change I will make in the community as a future healthcare provider.
Landon L.
I grew up in Idaho and graduated from BYU–Idaho in chemistry with a music minor. I prepared for medical school before being introduced to the PA profession and realizing it was my calling. I love teaching and tutored math, chemistry, and music throughout my undergraduate work, going on to teach undergraduate general chemistry labs as an adjunct faculty member after graduating. I have worked as a nurse assistant caregiver in assisted living facilities as well as in patient homes. I am excited to continue my journey in healthcare, education/teaching, and community involvement through the PA profession. My wife and I have three children. I love learning, especially about science and the environment, language and culture, politics, philosophy, self-improvement, and spirituality. My other hobbies include pickleball, hiking, poetry and creative writing, chess, movies, and reading. I am looking forward to developing relationships with classmates, faculty, and staff at Marietta College, as well as to the incredible experience that will be our PA education there. I am very grateful to be a part of the class of 2027.
Kae-Lynn L.
Originating from the small town of Greensburg, Indiana, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Science with minors in Leadership and Psychology from Marietta College in 2025. During my undergraduate studies, I gained hands-on clinical experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant in various nursing home facilities while volunteering in multiple departments at Marietta Memorial Hospital. These experiences broadened my exposure to diverse healthcare settings and reinforced my commitment to provide compassionate medicine. Now pursuing a Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies at Marietta College, I am eager to build upon these experiences to become a skilled provider with a passion for the medical field and a dedication to making a meaningful impact.
Lauren M.
Hi! My name is Lauren. I have called Athens, Ohio home for all my life. Growing up there, I’ve had the opportunity to see both the beauty of a small town community and also the hardships of poverty in southeastern Ohio. Seeing this dichotomy here has given me a heart for this region and a desire to serve as a healthcare provider for the underserved. In 2023 I graduated from Ohio University with a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology and minors in applied nutrition and biology. This education and my thesis project on a food pharmacy program only increased my passion for the Appalachian Ohio region, as well as my passion for a wholistic approach to healthcare. My aim is to be a PA full of compassion for the people I’ll have the privilege of serving. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to give back to my community as a future PA. In my free time, I enjoy being with my wonderful family & friends, exercise, cooking & spending time with the Lord. I’m so grateful to be a part of the class of 2027. Go Pios!
Alexa M.
I grew up in the rural town of Lewisville, located in Southeast Ohio. During high school, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to graduate with two associate degrees through the CCP program at Belmont College. I continued my education at Wheeling University where I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2023. Shortly after, I began working as a certified medical assistant in dermatology as well as pediatrics which allowed me to have hands-on experience with patients and work alongside PAs. In addition, I had the opportunity to shadow in a variety of specialties including primary care, orthopedics, radiation oncology, and neurosurgery which solidified my desire to become a PA. Experiencing a lack of access to healthcare in my rural, underserved community motivated me to find a career where I could be part of the solution. Therefore, I plan to remain in the Ohio Valley to practice as a PA. I am ecstatic to pursue my journey of becoming a physician assistant at Marietta College!
Emma M.
I was raised in the rural town of Spencer, WV. I graduated from Marietta College in 2025 with a major in Health Science and a minor in Leadership. In my free time I enjoy being outdoors, baking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. As I gained patient care experience within Marietta’s community, I quickly realized that I had a strong desire to work in underserved populations to 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 continue my time as a pioneer!
Colin M.
I am from Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, and I graduated from Washington & Jefferson College in May of 2023 with a degree in Psychology. At the time, I was also a dedicated student-athlete. Having played soccer for most of my life, I am truly grateful to have had the opportunity to compete at the collegiate level. As I transition into PA school, I carry with me the same discipline, resilience, and teamwork that I have developed on the field into my studies and future career in medicine. During undergrad, and following my graduation in May of 2023, I have worked as a senior medical assistant at Children’s Express Care. This role has provided me with extensive hands-on experience in caring for pediatric patients, further solidifying my passion and commitment to becoming a physician assistant. I am incredibly grateful to continue my journey at Marietta’s Physician Assistant Program, and excited to join the Pioneer community in the class of 2027!
Jade M.
I was born and raised in Washington, PA, and graduated from Trinity High School in 2021. During high school, I held an uncommon job working at a cemetery, where I gained a unique, postmortem perspective on healthcare. Supporting grieving families helped me develop a deeper sense of empathy, compassion, and understanding. I earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Biology (with a minor in Chemistry) and Psychology from Wheeling University, graduating in 2025. Throughout college, I witnessed loved ones face serious health challenges, offering me a new, personal view of the healthcare system. I also worked as a CNA at WVU Hospital, gaining valuable hands-on experience. These combined experiences affirmed my calling to healthcare. I’m passionate about treating the whole person—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Becoming a physician assistant is the path that allows me to do just that. I'm honored to be part of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program, Class of 2027, and excited to serve others through this journey.
Becca O.
I was raised in Avon, OH, a small town on the westside of Cleveland. As our town and surrounding areas began to grow, the hospital network from Cleveland began seeping into our town and further. My mom was a nurse, and my father built hospitals for the Cleveland Clinic. I was exposed to two sides of medicine; one was bedside, and one was preparing hospital rooms for future patients. My mom would always come home from working in the cardiac cath lab and explain the procedures or the reason she was called in overnight to me, and I always loved listening. My parents taught me to care for others and patients, which guided me to healthcare in general. I graduated from The Ohio State University in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in medical humanities. Ultimately, I knew medicine was the path for me, but I wasn’t sure if medical school or PA school was a better route for me. In the meantime, I completed my first master’s degree at Case Western Reserve University in 2023 with a degree in medical physiology and a focus on aerospace physiology. During my time at CWRU, I contemplated how I wanted to practice medicine, but the ongoing issue was which field of medicine. What drew me to PA was the amount of time I would get with my patients and ability to flex my practice throughout my career. I chose Marietta because of its long history of success and deeply rooted connections throughout the Ohio Valley. Given that I grew up in Ohio, I aim to serve here and give back to the various communities I’ve lived in throughout my life. I look forward to serving my own patients as a PA.
Jaylynn R.
My passion for understanding the human body and healthcare has made my career path clear from the start. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition, from Texas Tech University with minors in Biology and Health Professions. My appreciation for the science behind medicine has deepened through my undergraduate degree. Becoming a physician assistant will allow me to merge my love for science and medicine with a commitment to service. Marietta College Physician Assistant Program offers the ideal environment to refine my skills, expand my knowledge, and collaborate with like-minded individuals who share my passion for patient-centered care.
Alayna R.
I grew up in the small town of Columbus Grove, Ohio, and after high school, I moved to Marietta to pursue both my academics and volleyball career. In 2025, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and a minor in Leadership. Throughout my undergraduate years, I gained valuable hands-on experience by volunteering at Marietta Memorial Hospital, shadowing various healthcare providers, and working as a patient care technician in multiple hospital departments. These experiences solidified my passion for healthcare and reinforced my desire to become a Physician Assistant. I am incredibly grateful and excited to be part of Marietta’s Physician Assistant Program, and I look forward to serving my community as a PA-C in the future.
Kaitlyn R.
Hi! My name is Kaitlyn, and I was raised in the small town of Barnesville, OH. I graduated from The Ohio State University in 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and a minor in human nutrition. Outside of academics, I enjoy working out, spending time with family and friends, thrifting, reading, and traveling! After participating in a medical exploration program during high school, I knew I wanted to enter healthcare. However, I didn’t decide on the PA profession until I shadowed various healthcare providers during my first year of college. I knew I wanted to become a PA when I recognized how much of an emphasis the profession put on patient-centered care, collaborative practice, and autonomy. Working as a patient care technician in an emergency room and an inpatient rehabilitation facility has only deepened my desire to become a PA. I am so grateful to be a part of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program Class of 2027!
Kassidy S.
From a young age, I knew healthcare was my calling. I grew up watching medical television shows, playing as a healthcare provider, and my biggest role models were my cousins in the healthcare field. In high school, I was accepted into the Wood County Technical Center for its Medical Skills class. Learning more about healthcare and finally experiencing direct patient care with the clinical aspect of the program, very much solidified my love for healthcare. I attended West Virginia University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2021. It was not until my junior year of college that I learned of the Physician Assistant career. After researching the profession, I felt pulled toward this career, but wanted to gain insight into what day-to-day life looked like for a PA. After graduating, I decided to work as a clinical associate in a medical/surgical/hospice inpatient care unit for a year, and now currently in outpatient care as a resource pool ambulatory care assistant. These experiences have allowed me to observe the PA profession in a multitude of settings, and learn about the healthcare field across the board. I am so excited to begin this journey and return home to the Mid-Ohio Valley to be a part of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Class of 2027!!
Maddie S.
Hi! My name is Maddie and I grew up in Chesapeake, Ohio. I graduated from Marshall University in 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences and minors in chemistry and psychology. I have had the experience of being a medical scribe at my local ER, which was an amazing opportunity to further my medical knowledge. The field of medicine has always fascinated me and I am thrilled to be one step closer to being able to practice as a healthcare provider! Just so you know a little bit about me personally… I love Jesus, my family/friends, Murphy (my mini poodle), Mexican food, and playing board games! I am so excited and blessed to be a part of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program Class of 2027!
Taylor S.
Hello! My name is Taylor and I’m from Plain City, Ohio, where I graduated from Fairbanks High School in 2020. Throughout high school, I played competitive soccer where I sustained my fair share of injuries. These injuries are what drove my love for medicine and exposed me to all the different job opportunities healthcare has to offer. I went on to play D1 soccer at Western Kentucky University my freshman year, but transferred home to focus on my dream of becoming a Physician Assistant. I transferred to The Ohio State University and joined the Future Buckeye Physician Assistant Club to learn more about what it takes to become a PA. To gain valuable patient care experience and expose myself to different healthcare environments, I worked as an STNA at Friendship Village of Dublin and as a CMA at Memorial Health, where I floated between six different specialties. If I wasn’t at work or studying for the next big exam, one could find me hiking at a national park, reading a Colleen Hoover book, or snuggling with my two dogs. In December of 2023, I graduated Cum Laude from OSU. Now, I am beyond excited to continue my education at Marietta College in the class of 2027, where I will begin turning my dream of becoming a Physician Assistant into reality.
Taylor S.
Born and raised in Belpre, Ohio (just 25 minutes from Marietta). I grew up with a passion for soccer that shaped much of my life. That passion led me to continue my athletic career at Marietta College, where I studied Health Science with a minor in Leadership. For a while, I struggled to figure out what I wanted to be when I "grew up." I knew I wanted a career that didn’t feel like just a job, but something I could truly enjoy and feel connected to. It wasn’t until I took Anatomy and Physiology in high school and started gaining confidence that everything started to click. From that point on, I knew I had found the path I was meant to follow. Through my experiences as a teaching assistant for a cadaver lab, a nurse technician at Encompass Health, and shadowing professionals in the field, I’ve only grown more certain that I’m on the right track. Each step has reaffirmed my commitment to pursuing a career where I can make a difference one that feels both purposeful and fulfilling. I am so blessed to be able to continue my education in my community, and eventually give back to the people who have shaped me!
Alex T.
I was born and raised in the heart of Columbus, Ohio. For as long as I can remember, I have spent the majority of my life at my parent’s family business helping out and studying after school. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to gain experience in a variety of fields, from car audio repair sales to oncology research. In 2015, I attended The Ohio State University where I graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology in pursuit of a career in behavioral health. Needless to say, I did not have a good sense of what I wanted to pursue for a career until I began working as an operating room assistant at Riverside Methodist Hospital in 2022. At the hospital, I was able to speak to and observe a number of different professions and learn more about their day-to-day life and the path they took to get to where they are. This is where I met a few physician assistants who taught me both about the PA profession itself and how to be a better healthcare professional. Thanks to their mentorship, I am both proud and excited to pursue my career as a physician assistant at Marietta College!
Avery W.
Growing up in Marion, OH, I was inspired by my mother and grandmother, both nurses, whose careers in healthcare sparked my own desire to explore the field. Over the course of more than three years as a Patient Support Assistant at OhioHealth Marion General Hospital, I developed a deep passion for healthcare through meaningful patient interactions and a growing desire to serve others through medicine. I graduated from Bowling Green State University with a Bachelor's degree in Communication Disorders and a minor in Biology in May of 2024, with the hope of one day becoming a healthcare provider who makes patients feel safe and comfortable. Outside of my academic and professional life, I enjoy cooking, watching movies, going on walks, and spending time with my friends, family, and spouse. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity that God has given me to pursue my studies in Marietta College’s Physician Assistant program.
Kendall W.
Hi everyone! My name is Kendall and I am from Charlotte, North Carolina. My interest in pursuing a career in healthcare began in high school, where I was a member of the Health Occupations Students of America club. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Neuroscience from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2022. During my time at UNC, I was able to explore different careers in the healthcare field through volunteering, shadowing, and taking classes, and ultimately decided that I wanted to become a physician assistant. Since graduating, I have spent my time working at a federally qualified health center and have grown passionate about expanding access to quality healthcare in my community. In my free time, I enjoy playing pickleball and spending time outdoors, tending to my sourdough starter, and playing with my cat, Milo. I am honored to be a part of the Marietta College Physician Assistant Program Class of 2027, and look forward to continuing my journey to becoming a PA. Go Pios!
Josh W.
I was raised in Roseville, Michigan, and received my undergraduate degree in physiology at Michigan State University! I started working in healthcare at a young age, performing clerical work and assisting with secretarial tasks. I was drawn in immediately and could not wait to jump from behind the desk to gaining real hands-on experience. Throughout high school and college, I worked as a medical assistant and ultimately a nursing assistant at my local hospital’s ICU. Here is where my desire to become a physician assistant began, as I was able to work alongside and observe several PAs, seeing their immediate and meaningful impact on their patients’ health and overall comfort. Working in these positions taught me compassion, strength, and allowed me to see what a great provider can accomplish in their community. Outside of school, I love hiking, nature, and watching my Spartans play any sport. I cannot wait to begin this challenging but rewarding journey of becoming a PA!
Kiah W.
I grew up in Zanesville, Ohio, and I attended John Glenn High School. I graduated in May of 2025 from High Point University located in High Point, NC where I majored in Exercise Science. Throughout my undergraduate career, I worked as a medical assistant at Ohio Valley Dermatology where I solidified my passion for the PA profession. Outside of my academics, I enjoy reading, painting, and running. I am grateful for the opportunity to further my education at Marietta College's PA program and to be able to serve my community as a future PA!
Olivia W.
My path to Marietta’s Physician Assistant program started in high school in Fishers, Indiana, where I had the privilege of spending my senior year as an intern for an orthopedic surgeon. This experience solidified my desire to join the healthcare industry and led me to study Kinesiology at Purdue University. During my time at Purdue, I worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant at a nursing home and then as a Medical Scribe in a busy emergency department and ENT clinic. After finishing undergrad, I transitioned to working as a Medical Assistant at a dermatology clinic in Indianapolis. Through all of this hands-on experience, I developed a passion for patient care and advocacy. I am eager to further my knowledge and skills during my time at Marietta and hope to make a meaningful impact in healthcare.
Anna W.
I was born and raised in Cambridge, Ohio, and attended Miami University, where I received my bachelor’s degree in biology in 2025! Since high school, I have always enjoyed the similarities between gymnastics and exercise. This sparked my interest in healthcare, specifically as a physician assistant. During my undergraduate career, I worked as a patient care technician at OhioHealth Southeastern Medical Center and as a competition team coach for Zanesville Gymnastics. I believe both positions contributed to my future career plans and provided valuable insight for my next steps. Getting to know colleagues, fellow athletes, and friends was always my favorite aspect of these experiences. Forming those close relationships is one of the many things I look forward to as a PA. Since discovering this career path and deciding it’s the one for me, Marietta College’s Physician Assistant program has been my primary goal. I am excited to begin this next chapter and assist those in my community!