by Larry McCauley, PA-S, Elon University
Elon University’s 24-month, full-time PA program prepares graduates to think critically and act skillfully to meet expanding health care needs in local and global communities.
Students immerse themselves in a curriculum structured around active learning strategies through collaborative work with Elon’s faculty, scholars, and practitioners in the field. Students emerge in two years as graduates prepared to employ the most current knowledge to care for patients’ physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs. Elon’s fifth cohort graduated this year and achieved a 100% first time pass rate for the PANCE.
Learning:
Elon fosters a supportive, collaborative, and collegial community that engages students in a learner-centered environment. Elon students study anatomy in a human donor lab made possible by an anatomic gift program. Faculty lead students in unique learning events this past year, such as multiple illustrative anatomy sessions and ultrasound workshops.
Service:
EPASS, Elon’s physician assistant student society, serves the community in various ways. Students volunteer weekly at the Open Door Clinic of Alamance County, which offers free health care services to uninsured and indigent residents of Alamance County. EPASS also hosts “The Great Cape Escape”, an annual 5k to raise money for the clinic. Students have also participated in cancer screening and Habitat for Humanity builds.
Developing professionals:
Students are encouraged to join and participate in professional PA organizations. Organizations that students are involved with include the Piedmont Association of Physician Assistants, the NCAPA, and AAPA. Students attended the AAPA conference in Denver, CO this past May where delegations competed in the YESISCAN ultrasound competition and in the student challenge bowl.
Social:
Elon PA students enjoy many social opportunities. Students can compete in intramural sports, with this year’s teams competing in flag football and soccer. EPASS hosts an annual PA prom. Students enjoy socializing and bonding through weekend retreats which have been hosted in the mountains and at the coast.
