From public health to patient care: How ATSU-CHC is shaping one student’s vision for whole-person medicine

From public health to patient care: How ATSU-CHC is shaping one student's vision for whole-person medicine

Chidalu Mbonu, PA, '26, is a student in the A.T. Still University-College for Healthy Communities (ATSU-CHC) Central Coast Physician Assistant (CCPA) program, class of 2026. A native of Montgomery County, Maryland, she brings an exceptional academic foundation to her PA training, earning a bachelor of science in public health from the University of Maryland, College Park in 2021, followed by a master of public health in health policy and clinical practice from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth in 2023.

Mbonu was drawn to ATSU-CHC by its commitment to whole person healthcare and its mission to serve underserved communities, values she has carried throughout her academic and professional journey. She serves as co-moderator of the Fellowship of Christian Physician Associates, a peer mentor, an elected AAPA Student Academy Representative, a 2025-2026 Student Academy Delegate to the AAPA House of Delegates, and a student ambassador.

Why did you choose the PA program at ATSU's College for Healthy Communities?

"I chose ATSU-CHC because of its strong commitment to whole person healthcare and its mission to serve underserved communities. As someone with a background in public health, I was drawn to ATSU's emphasis on integrating medical science with community-oriented care. The program's rigorous clinical training and focus on compassionate, patient-centered medicine aligned closely with my goals of becoming a clinician who not only treats disease but also addresses the broader social and public health factors that influence health outcomes."

What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?

"One of the things I enjoy most about being an ATSU student is the opportunity to give back through volunteering. I participate in the Dreamline Pathways program, where I help introduce high school students to the PA profession and encourage them to pursue career paths that empower them and their families. Through this program, I hope to inspire them to dream boldly and believe in the possibilities ahead of them. I also participate in community service through student government, such as packing school supplies for school-age children to support their learning. These experiences make the journey through PA school both rewarding and meaningful."

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

"Professionally, I hope to practice medicine in a way that integrates clinical care with a broader understanding of public health and the social factors that influence health outcomes. I aspire to contribute to healthcare not only by treating illness but also by promoting prevention, education, and community well-being. ATSU is preparing me for this path through rigorous clinical training and an emphasis on whole person care, which encourages us to consider the biological, psychological, spiritual, social, and environmental factors that shape health. Through my education and clinical experiences at ATSU, I am developing the knowledge, skills, and perspective needed to serve patients thoughtfully and compassionately."

Why did you choose to get involved in student organizations?

"I enjoy representing the student body and ensuring that every voice is heard and thoughtfully advocated for. Through my role as SGA's AAPA Student Academy Representative and as a 2025-2026 Student Academy Delegate to the AAPA House of Delegates, I am able to promote justice, equity, and transparency in student representation while helping to strengthen communication between students and leadership at both the program and national levels.

In the midst of the many demands of PA school, it is always uplifting to gather with classmates who share the same faith. Our Fellowship of Christian Physician Associates provides a space for prayer, reflection, encouragement, and worship, reminding us to remain grounded in our purpose to serve others through medicine.

As for peer mentoring and serving as a student ambassador, there were times when navigating the PA school application process felt daunting because I did not personally know anyone who could guide me or explain what to expect. Through social media, I was able to connect with PA students and graduates willing to share their experiences, but there were also many messages that never received responses. Because of this, I make it a priority to volunteer as a mentor and ambassador so that prospective, incoming, and first-year students always have someone they can reach out to for guidance and encouragement."

What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of ATSU?

"Outside of ATSU, I enjoy writing and reflecting on issues related to healthcare, public health, the evolving role of medical professionals, and public policy. I recently had the opportunity to publish an article discussing the role of physician associates in medicine, which allowed me to contribute to broader conversations within the healthcare community. I also enjoy learning about different cultures through food and spending time with family and friends. These experiences help me maintain perspective and remind me that within our differences lie many shared similarities."