From Current Students
Hyman Fowler
Why did you choose to become a PA?
I chose to pursue this career because I really want to help people. I want to help people, but I also don’t want to get so involved in my work that I’m not able to enjoy my life and family. Being a PA allows me not only the flexibility of time, but also the flexibility of what field I work in. Patient satisfaction also plays a role in my decision. If question people who have been treated by PAs, they often say they would rather see PAs over physicians because of how much they care and they spend more time with them. That’s what I want, and that’s what’s important.
What attracted you to MUSC?
The in-state tuition and location of the program were big factors in applying to MUSC, but it was the interaction with Kelly Long that really locked in my decision. I was accepted at other PA schools along with MUSC; however it was Mrs. Long that really made me feel like MUSC had a place for me. Throughout the entire process she always had time to answer questions, and she made interview here really comfortable. She is one of the most wonderful, genuine people that I know.
In what field(s) of medicine are you interested in working?
I came in saying only Ortho was the field for me. But as with everyone that comes in with a preconceived notion for what they are going to do, I found something else that I enjoy just as much if not more. For me, this other field is cardiology. I’ll decide between the two during my rotations. Ortho is great because for the most part you can make a lot of people feel better instantly. I worked in an ortho office before coming to MUSC, so I’m really got to see what it was like. With Cardiology, however, you see some really amazing things, and have the power to improve, and change a patient’s life drastically. So we will see. That’s the great thing about being a physician assistant is the flexibility. I can work in Cardiology for 4 years, and if I don’t like it, I can change fields without having to go back to school. Because we are trained so well in all fields, we can do this, where as doctors and nurse practitioners can’t. Sweet!!!!!
What would you have done differently to prepare?
The only thing I would have done differently is I would have gone out more. I actually started studying anatomy when I found out I got in, which was the best decision I made. It really allowed me to do well and get into the grove of things. However, I could have taken more time for me and to go out and just have a good time. Your time to do that type of thing without feeling guilty really takes a hit your second semester, but remember “All work and no play, makes PA students go crazy”!
What’s your favorite thing about Charleston?
The restaurants and culture are great. I mean the food here is really great. There’s so much to choose from and it is all world class. So take advantage when you find time and let your palate go wild. There is so much to do and get involved with. You can go see the ballet one month, and prepare to go on a Medical Mission trip to Africa the next. They also have a movie theater that serves food and alcohol. How cool is that?
If you could choose a superpower, what would it be?
To absorb knowledge of anything and anyone at will. I would have the capacity to be the most intelligent person to live. I could absorb information from books, memories and thoughts from people, and knowledge. I would be like The Brain, and “try to take over the world!!!!!”
When you get away from school, what do you do for fun and/or burn off stress?
Sleep and watch TV. These are the two things that you don’t (and shouldn’t!) get enough of while in school. I love watching movies, new and old, so when I get a chance to catch up, I do not hesitate.
What’s your favorite medical TV show?
It used to be ER before it went off the air. I know a lot of other students say House, but right now I’m really feeling Royal Pains on USA. Seeing the inventiveness of Hank (MD) and Devia (PA) is cool. Plus this is the only show on right know that actually acknowledges PAs and the stuff they have to deal with when treating patient.
My favorite class/professor is…
I hope the other faculty don’t get jealous, but it’s a tie between Dr. O’truba outside of class, and Jamie Woody PA-C (sad she’s leaving) in class. O’truba is really down to earth and great to talk to about anything. Sure she’s not a Dallas Cowboy fan, but hey no one’s perfect. Mrs. Woody does a great job of communicating and teaching. Really has some good insight on disease and makes sure that we get it. Gonna miss her since she’s leaving.
Any advice to give prospective students?
Start studying now for anatomy. This is your first real heavy class when you get here. It is not like anatomy in undergrad. It’s much involved and detail oriented. So know what you are getting yourself into. This is truly a lot of work, and it is not easy. You cannot imagine the amount of information you are required to know. Be ready for this, and get your mind around the fact that this is not a normal graduate level program.
Also, be flexible. There is going to be a lot of things that seem frivolous and unnecessary, but I promise it will all come together for the best in the end. Remember complaining gets you absolutely nowhere. Just relax and go with the flow.
