PA Studies student named Presidential Ambassador Scholar for School of Health Professions

By Kate Hunger

 

Physician Assistant Studies student Caitlyn Swopes is the School of Health Professions’ 2022 Presidential Ambassador Scholar.

Swopes has devoted a substantial number of hours to leadership and volunteer efforts, said Steven “Tony” Skaggs, PhD, MPAS, PA-C, assistant professor, associate chair and associate program director of the Department of Physician Assistant Studies.

“She demonstrated an exceptional combination of professionalism and compassion through her efforts as PA Class 2022 service coordinator, connecting her fellow PA students to more than 50 humanitarian volunteer opportunities within the underserved regional community,” Dr. Skaggs said, describing Swopes’ numerous other volunteer, outreach and research activities, and stellar academic record.

Each year, a student from each school at UT Health San Antonio is selected as a Presidential Ambassador Scholar. Each ambassador is awarded a $5,000 scholarship and represents the student body and the university at events throughout the year.

Swopes will graduate from the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program in December. Learn more about her PA journey in the Q&A below:

 

Q: Why did you decide to become a PA? 

A: I wanted to go into medicine, and I love the flexibility that the PA profession provides. I see myself working in different specialties during my career, and being a PA allows me to do that.  

Q: What is your ultimate career goal? 

A: Ideally, I want to stay in academia. I want to practice as a PA and hopefully continue research in some form, and then ultimately, I would like to venture into medical education. 

Q: What does receiving this honor mean to you? 

A: Being selected to be a Presidential Ambassador Scholar means so much to me. It really is an honor that my faculty  thought of me for this nomination and that I was chosen to represent the School of Health Professions and the university. The recognition of the efforts I have put forward during my PA school career is such a validating feeling.  

Q: What have you learned in PA school that has surprised you? 

A: Experiencing, especially the first time, the joy and satisfaction of helping patients has been a wonderful surprise in PA school.