ATSU-CHC provides unique campus atmosphere, supportive faculty to drive student success

ATSU-CHC provides unique campus atmosphere, supportive faculty to drive student success

Different schools have different feelings that come with them, part of the environment created by the people there and the mission of respective institutions.

A.T. Still University-College for Healthy Communities (ATSU-CHC) Central Coast Physician Assistant program (CCPA) student Christine Fung, PA, '26, is grateful for the atmosphere on the University's Central Coast campus, one she finds unique in her academic experiences.

"As a student at ATSU, I have never felt more seen as a first-generation student than I do now," she said. "Being surrounded by others with similar backgrounds gives me a deep sense of reassurance that if we can achieve this, then future generations after us can, too. From day one of PA school, the faculty have been unwavering in their support, and I am truly grateful for their guidance and commitment to my success."

Fung is from Hercules, California, and has a bachelor's of science degree in psychology. When deciding where to go to school to become a PA, Fung found ATSU's mission of service to underserved communities something that resonated deeply with her personal experience.

"I chose ATSU because I deeply connect with the program's mission statement," she said. "Growing up, I was raised not only by my immigrant parents, but also by my non-English-speaking grandparents, who remain a constant reminder of how difficult access to healthcare can be. Serving as one of their main interpreters during visits to a community health center, I witnessed firsthand how easily their needs could have been overlooked without someone to bridge the language barrier. Their experiences instilled in me a commitment to ensure that no patient feels unseen or unheard because of cultural or linguistic differences. ATSU's mission to serve the underserved reflects the very values that shaped me, and I am determined to carry those values forward as a PA."

Fung serves as a student ambassador, hoping her experiences can be valuable to others pursuing their own higher education goals.

"Being the first in my family to pursue higher education - and the very first to enter healthcare - I experienced firsthand the struggles that come with navigating an unfamiliar path. I often felt that many of these challenges could have been eased if there had been a step-by-step guide for people from backgrounds like mine. Yet I also realized that the greater challenge lies in finding the right person to provide that kind of guidance," she said. "Because I know how difficult it is to gain admission into PA school, I strongly believe applicants deserve support along the way. One of the most meaningful parts of this journey has been sharing my own experiences openly, whether in person or through social media, offering others a glimpse into what it truly takes to reach this point. To me, studying medicine is both a privilege and a responsibility, and I take pride in using my transparency to help others prepare to follow the same path."

In her free time, Fung enjoys baking, traveling, attending music festivals, exploring new restaurants and cafes, and supporting local businesses. She is also a member of the CCPA Run Club.

"I joined the Run Club because studying medicine is not easy and breaks are needed in order to keep me going," she said.

Fung's future plans are varied, as she considers a path toward healthcare administration she believes could open more opportunities for aspiring students.

"Professionally, after completing my PA education, I have considered pursuing an MBA later in my career to transition into healthcare administration and help open doors for other PA-Cs interested in this field," she said. "I believe ATSU's extensive network and strong alumni community will provide the foundation and connections to help me achieve these long-term goals."