A Clinical Year Physician Assistant Student Who is Building Compassionate Healthcare Skills Through Experience | Audra Cotter, PA-S2

Discover the compelling journey of Audra Cotter, a second-year physician assistant student whose passion for healthcare was ignited at an early age in a household where psychology was a dinner table topic. Audra's path from EMT to PA student is a testament to the transformative power of hands-on experience and the invaluable insights gained from shadowing professionals in the medical field. As our guest, she candidly shares how her early exposure to emergency medicine has shaped her clinical skills and patient care philosophy, offering a glimpse into the foundational experiences that guide her steps toward becoming a compassionate healthcare provider.Embark on an insightful exploration of PA school life as Audra recounts her didactic year—a grueling yet rewarding period filled with classroom learning and exams. Transitioning into her clinical rotations, she reveals the unexpected lessons from her time in general surgery, particularly in pancreatic and biliary surgeries, where textbook knowledge meets real-world application. Her stories highlight the critical role of clinical exposure in not just enhancing medical knowledge but also in fostering a deeper understanding of patient care.In this episode, we also tackle the emotional landscape of PA school, delving into pervasive feelings of doubt and imposter syndrome that many students face. Audra emphasizes the power of mentorship and community support in overcoming these hurdles, sharing how a non-competitive environment and collaborative learning with peers can transform the PA journey. Her advice for aspiring PA students centers on savoring each moment and trusting the process, underscoring the importance of enjoying the present as each experience builds toward becoming a skilled healthcare provider. Join us for an inspiring conversation that offers both encouragement and practical insights for those considering a career in the medical field.Support the showPlease connect and say hello >>> Email me!              Support shadow me next >>> Thank you!Want to be a guest? >>>  Click here!Virtual shadowing is an important tool to use when planning your medical career. Whether as a doctor, a physician assistant, a therapist or nurse, here Shadow Me Next! we want to provide you with the resources you need to find your role in healthcare and understand your place in medicine.