ATSU-ASHS Physician Assistant student says program helping her build key skills for future

ATSU-ASHS Physician Assistant student says program helping her build key skills for future

Posted: September 19, 2024

Since beginning her journey toward a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies degree from A.T. Still University's Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS), Tatum Patrice Brimley, PA, '25, has been impressed.

Originally from Phoenix, Brimley has degrees in human biology and biblical studies from Biola University, and was previously an emergency medical technician. Her goal is to work in an emergency room or in women's health, lead and advocate for the PA profession, and to be involved at a national level, pushing for positive change in diversity, equity, and inclusion within the field and healthcare as a whole.

ATSU-ASHS is providing opportunities for her to build the skills necessary to pursue those goals.

"ATSU has highlighted the importance of representation and advocacy for me, and has played a significant role in my journey by providing financial support and mentorship, and offering opportunities to attend national conferences focused on these critical issues," Brimley said.

"With these experiences, I aim to pursue a DMSc (Doctor of Medical Science degree) and potentially an MPH (Master of Public Health degree), with the goal of addressing healthcare disparities and bridging gaps in healthcare. I also hope to return to ATSU in the future as an adjunct faculty member to support and guide physician assistant students. Ultimately, I aspire to be a competent physician assistant who advocates for both my profession and the health of my future patients."

The University's osteopathic history and mission attracted Brimley to the Mesa, Arizona, campus, as the philosophies embodied what she believes are important perspectives to hold as healthcare providers.

"I have had the privilege of working firsthand with providers from ATSU, and they were all excellent, leading with compassion and empathy while demonstrating remarkable intelligence," she said. "Additionally, I valued ATSU's emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion. These aspects were significant to me as a woman of color, hoping to serve all of my patients in a holistic way."

Those foundational pieces combine with cutting-edge technology to form a well-rounded curriculum, preparing students for success in today's world.

"Another reason I enjoy being an ATSU student here is the innovation that takes place," Brimley said. "There was one day in lab where my professor had us using VR (virtual reality) to look inside the body. They are always looking for innovative ways to teach us and they value our feedback here."

Brimley is president of the Kettle Society, a member of the Black Student Alliance, a S.A.F.E. Zone for All ally, student ambassador, student delegate to the American Academy of Physician Associates House of Delegates, attendee of the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants Represent! Summit, and more.

"Being president has been an honor. I was motivated to take on this role to help foster a sense of community, promote diversity and inclusion, and lead by example in professionalism, integrity, and service," she said. "What I enjoy most about being class president is the opportunity to make a tangible impact on our class experience. Planning and organizing events, fundraisers, self-care opportunities, and community outreach activities has allowed me to connect with my classmates and support their academic and personal growth. By taking on this role, I hoped to foster a supportive and collaborative community where everyone feels valued, seen and heard. My goal has been to unite all 100 of us in our mission of becoming the best providers for our future patients."

As a student ambassador, Brimley seeks to give back to future students through mentoring, knowing firsthand how intimidating the journey to a graduate health sciences school may be.

"As a student of color, it was particularly meaningful for me to reach out to other students of color and help ease their transition. It can be easy to feel alone as a minority, so embodying representation and promoting diversity and inclusion has always been important to me. My goal has always been to create a more supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and all our differences are valued," Brimley said.

"I also wanted to share my experience at ATSU because the faculty were so warm and welcoming from the moment I had my first interview. This program has brought me immense joy, taught me many lessons, and opened up numerous opportunities. I firmly believe in ATSU's mission to serve the underserved and provide holistic care to patients - body, mind, and spirit."

Brimley has also been impressed by her campus-life experience. She's enjoyed attending expos and summits put on by the University, and said there are always fun opportunities to network and meet other students across different disciplines.

"I enjoy that it is a medical campus and there are many interprofessional opportunities like a 'Stop the Bleed' simulation training we had. There are countless interprofessional workshops and labs we have had, and it is because ATSU fosters this collaborative environment that I am so glad to be a part of," Brimley said. "We have had labs with physical therapy, occupational therapy, and audiology. We even raised funds for charities in this big charity ball event we had that raised over $2,000 for a disability foundation.

"I believe this community outreach and interprofessional interaction makes me a better provider, just by having this extra exposure to other medical professions. This also makes me a better patient advocate, as I have more knowledge and tools on who I may be able to send my patients to."

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