How ATSU-ASHS prepares Physician Assistant students for holistic, patient-centered care

How ATSU-ASHS prepares Physician Assistant students for holistic, patient-centered care

Jenna Fahs, PA, '27, a student in the A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program, is dedicated to holistic, patient-centered care. A graduate of Northern Arizona University with a bachelor of science in biomedical sciences, Fahs chose ATSU for its body, mind, and spirit approach to healthcare, which aligns with her values of compassion and deep listening.

Why did you choose the PA program at ATSU-ASHS?

"I chose ATSU-ASHS because I really connected with its focus on the body, mind, and spirit approach to care. I believe that every patient is more than their symptoms, and true healing means understanding their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. This holistic philosophy reminds me of how I was raised and the values my family taught me, such as showing compassion, listening deeply, and caring for people as a whole. I am very family centered, and I see that same sense of connection and support in ATSU's community. I want to become the kind of clinician who not only treats illness but also helps patients feel seen, understood, and cared for in every way."

What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?

"What I enjoy most about being an ATSU student is how supportive everyone is. It really feels like a community where people want each other to succeed. My classmates, professors, and mentors are always willing to help, and that makes such a difference. I also love how diverse our classes are. Everyone comes from different backgrounds and experiences, so I'm constantly learning from the people around me. It makes discussions more interesting and helps me see things from new perspectives. Overall, it's such a positive and encouraging environment, and I feel lucky to be part of it."

What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASHS helping prepare you for your career?

"Professionally, I hope to build a career where I can make a meaningful difference in patients' lives while pursuing my passion for medicine. I am still exploring different specialties, but I have a strong interest in sports medicine, orthopedics, and anesthesiology. After tearing my ACL twice while playing soccer, I developed a deep appreciation for the recovery process and the impact that skilled, compassionate care can have on a patient's life. That experience sparked my interest in sports medicine and orthopedics, where I could help others regain strength and return to the activities they love. It would be a dream to one day work with or be contracted under a major sports team, helping athletes stay healthy and perform at their best.

"ATSU-ASHS is helping me prepare for this future by emphasizing a holistic approach to care that focuses on treating the whole person in body, mind, and spirit. The curriculum and clinical experiences strengthen both medical knowledge and communication skills, which are essential in every area of medicine. The supportive environment and opportunities for leadership and community involvement at ATSU are also helping me grow into the kind of compassionate and well-rounded clinician I aspire to become."

Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?

"I joined the student ambassador program because I truly enjoy helping and connecting with others. Throughout my undergraduate years, I served as a teaching assistant for anatomy and physiology, and that experience showed me how much I value guiding and supporting students. Being able to help people understand complex topics and feel more confident in their learning was incredibly rewarding. As a student ambassador, I get to continue that same kind of mentorship by sharing my experiences, answering questions, and helping prospective students feel welcomed and supported. I enjoy being part of a community that values kindness, leadership, and growth, and I take pride in representing my program and helping others find their place in it."

What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?

"Outside of ATSU, I really enjoy staying active and being outdoors. Fitness is an important part of my life, and I recently ran the Rock and Roll 10K, which was such a rewarding experience. I love hiking and traveling because they let me disconnect, explore new places, and appreciate nature.

"I also have a creative side that comes from my dad's family, which has a long lineage of artists. Drawing and painting have always been ways for me to express myself and relax. Music is another big part of my life, and lately I have been listening to Ax and the Hatchetmen's newest album. I also love cooking because it allows me to be creative while sharing something I enjoy with others. These hobbies help me stay balanced, grounded, and connected to the things that make me happy."