Emily Minakin, ’15

Tufts University Physician Assistant Program

At URI: Majored in Nutrition and Dietetics; Minored in Biology. National Exchange in Hawaii (where she got her CNA license); worked as a CNA and shadowed PAs and physicians; Nutrition Club; National Honor Society; Lipid Lab volunteer; volunteer at Type 1 Diabetes camp.

After Graduating: Worked as CNA to gain more than the required clinical hours for admission.

Emily’s Advice: I tried to find any valuable experience I could because I knew that PA school was competitive. It was a tough process but if you are determined and willing to work for it, it pays off. Keep your grades up, take a rigorous schedule, and make sure to get hands-on experience. Make sure this process is exactly what you want. I would highly recommend shadowing in a few specialties and making sure this type of lifestyle is right for you.