Marissa Jimenez is a graduate student in Marist's Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program. She received her undergraduate degree from Gordon College in Biology and has worked as a Medical Assistant at Digestive Disease Center of the Hudson Valley for 3 years.

What are your career goals?
I originally came into the program with my heart set on working in some sort of pediatric specialty. I have always enjoyed working with children and was naturally drawn to that age group. Now that I am in the program, I have already been exposed to so many different specialties that I am more open-minded to all of the possibilities. One of the aspects that drew me to the PA profession was the ability to try my hand at multiple specialties.  As I am coming to the end of the didactic year, I am excitedly anticipating the start of clinical rotations and seeing what field of medicine I connect with along the way.

Why did you choose to pursue your graduate degree at Marist?
I grew up in the Hudson Valley and I wanted to attend a program that would allow me to give back to the community that helped shape me. When I heard Marist was starting a Physician Assistant program I was immediately excited, because the heart of Marist College is the dedication to the service of others. With the college’s outstanding academic record and prominent reputation in the Hudson Valley and beyond, I knew that Marist would best equip me to serve this community as a Physician Assistant. 

Tell us about a project or course that was particularly meaningful to your professional development:
The first time I worked with a standardized patient from the community was in my Clinical Diagnosis course, and it was a moment that I will never forget. As nervous as I was, I was able to practice my communication skills and connect with my patient. At that moment I was reminded that patients are not textbook cases, they are dynamic and it’s so important to connect with them in order to gain their trust.

What advice would you give to a student considering pursuing a graduate degree at Marist?
I would tell a student who was considering pursuing a graduate degree at Marist to go for it! Pursue your passions and work hard. No matter what you decide to study, Marist has all the resources you need to be successful. And don’t forget to enjoy yourself along the way!