Describe your career path since graduation.

I worked as a Medical Assistant/Lab Technician following graduation from Bridgewater State College before returning to graduate school at Northeastern University for a Masters in Health Professions and a Certificate as a Physician Assistant.

 

What is your current position and how long have you been with your employer? 

I am a Lead Physician Assistant.  I have been working at the New England Heart Institute for 15 years.

 

Describe the main responsibilities of your position. 

I diagnose and treat patients with cardiac illnesses.  I also supervise nurse practitioners and physician assistants in our practice.

 

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

Taking care of patients when they have a favorable outcome.

 

What do you find most challenging about your job? 

Dealing with unfavorable patient outcomes.

 

Describe your typical work week.  (How many hours you work, your work environment, etc.) 

I work for a hospital-based cardiology practice. Most of my day is spent in the hospital seeing patients, although some of these appointments are for out-patient stress tests. I generally work a 40-50 hour work week.

 

What job search methods did you use to obtain your current position?  

I found my job through a professional journal advertisement.

 

What advice could you give to students interested in your field? 

Get experience in healthcare, even if this is volunteer work. Most graduate programs require direct patient care experience prior to admission.