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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
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Class of 2012 - Cleveland Campus |
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| Matthew Barnard |
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The majority of my adult life has been spent deep beneath the ocean’s waves in places I never fathomed. Prior to applying to Case Western Reserve University, I was a nuclear operator in the United States Naval Submarine Service. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity the Navy afforded me, but I realize sea-life and reactor plants are not the future I envision for myself.
After graduating from the University of Missouri-Kansas City with a B.S. in Chemistry and a minor in Biology, it was my intention to apply to several medical schools. During my application process, I received a letter from CWRU that supplied information concerning the career path of an anesthesiologist assistant. The more I researched the program and took advantage of shadowing experiences, the more I came to understand how well the program fit my goals. The small class sizes, history of excellence, challenging casework, and the strong role of clinical experience at Case Western are what attracted me the most. I am overjoyed to have been selected to this program and look forward to becoming a valuable member of the surgical team and improving patients’ lives. |
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| Lauren Barone |
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| I graduated from Denison University in 2009 with a B.S. in Biology. For most of my undergraduate career, I was intent on going to medical school but decided to take time off after graduation to explore other career opportunities in science and medicine. After graduation, I began working as a research assistant in both cancer and environmental research labs. I knew that I had a passion for medicine and science, but realized that I needed a career that would allow me to help people in a more direct manner. Prior experience at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center, coupled with working at an outpatient surgery center, introduced me to the field of anesthesia. After shadowing AAs and researching the profession, I know that I will enjoy the challenges, meaningful work, and balanced lifestyle that this career has to offer. I am excited about becoming a part of Case’s program and am looking forward to starting in June! |
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| Zachary Barsman |
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| I’ve always had a strong interest in the sciences and chose to major in molecular genetics at Ohio State University. In addition to my coursework, I worked in research labs to learn and apply genetic and biochemical techniques to academic research. This experience was valuable; however, four years and three lab settings later I had decided that a career in research was not going to satisfy my desire to work directly with patients. I shadowed many health professionals in various fields with no particular position appealing to me. Then, after having the opportunity to shadow several anesthetists at Case Western, I knew that I had found the career for me. It seems perfectly tailored to my desire to help people and maintain mobility between different medical specialties. Originally from Cincinnati, I now live in Cleveland, working as a research technologist at the Cleveland Clinic's molecular genetics department, eagerly awaiting the start of school in June. |
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| Angela Capp |
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I am from Independence, Ohio, and I graduated from Baldwin-Wallace College in May 2010 with a B.S. in Biology. At the age of 15, I was hospitalized for a gymnastics-related injury which took several months to recover from, and it was during this time that I became focused on the medical field as a career goal. Upon entering Baldwin-Wallace, I joined the Pre-Med Society, and became a lab assistant for the Microbiology and Immunology courses in an eager attempt to figure out my life’s path. It was through a Pre-Med presentation that I was introduced to the Anesthesiologist Assistant profession and, more particularly, Case’s MSA Program.
After researching more about AAs, I quickly became excited and passionate about this seemingly “too good to be true” profession. Through shadowing, it was made evident that the AA career is indeed too good to be true, and is also the perfect fit for me. Once I realized that medical school was not the path I wanted to pursue, I was lost until I was made aware of this profession. For those prospective students who are debating if medical school is right for them, I highly suggest shadowing an AA, you will not be disappointed! |
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| Robert David Denyer |
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| I graduated from The University of Michigan in May 2010 with a B.S. in Brain Behavior and Cognitive Science. I very much enjoyed the study of the brain and its mechanisms which ultimately led to me to an interest in anesthesia. My sophomore year I started shadowing at Case Western and fell in love with the AA profession after the first surgery! After my first experience in the OR I knew the next step was deciding which schools I would apply to. Every Anesthesiologist that I spoke to about this profession over the next two years said that Case Western provided the best training in the field. With this advice, as well the personable nature of the faculty including Jennifer and Laura, I knew that not only would Case Western be my first choice, but it would be the only school where I would apply. Thankfully, I was accepted and to this day, after several shadowing experiences, I have not found a single AA that is not extremely passionate about their profession and satisfied with their lifestyle. The universal satisfaction with the career experienced by all whom I have come into contact with says a lot about the profession and its mission as a whole. What an honor it is to now be a part of the program here at Case Western! |
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| Kelly Foster |
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| Growing up I always had the dream of becoming a doctor. This was based on my love of science, and later, my love of caring for patients as a nurse’s aide. After growing up in Cleveland I decided to go to Elon University in North Carolina, where I received my B.S. in Biology. I was unable to get into medical school right after graduation, so I decided to move back to Cleveland to accept a job as a manager at an assisted living home. I then decided to get my Masters degree at Case in Applied Anatomy to help me with my medical school application. After starting the anatomy program, I realized that becoming a physician was not for me. After I graduated, the director of the anatomy program, Dr. Joe Miller, introduced the MSA program to me. After researching the profession, shadowing, and reading an anesthesia text, I knew that this career was the perfect match. I am excited to officially become a part of the AA community and look forward to becoming a talented anesthetist as well as helping advance the profession. |
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| Anna Gartner |
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| I graduated from Cleveland State University with a B.S. in Psychology and Pre-Med. When I was a senior, I volunteered as a part of an anesthesia technician team at the Cleveland Clinic. During my volunteer experience, I found out about the midlevel medical profession of anesthetist. After a thorough exploration of this career and interviews with practicing anesthetists, I have decided to pursue this rewarding and stimulating medical specialty. Among five schools that offer a program in anesthesia, I chose MSA at CWRU for several reasons. First of all, CWRU has a reputation for giving an excellent education with a prospect for better jobs. In particular, the MSA program offers a challenging curriculum that best prepares its students for future practice. I believe that only the MSA program at CWRU gives its best effort to transform enthusiastic novices into hard-core anesthesia experts. This is exactly the support I look for on my path to actualization. |
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| Kathleen Hixson |
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| I earned my B.S. in Chemistry from Case Western Reserve University in May of 2010. Upon entering my undergraduate career, I knew I wanted to go into a health field but was not sure medical school would be right for me. A friend of mine told me about the MSA program and I immediately shadowed an AA. Loving the hands on learning and the variety of cases I would get to see daily as an AA, I knew this was the career for me. Also, growing up around the area and being at Case for 4 years prior, I knew what great opportunities and prestige the surrounding hospitals offered and could only imagine what knowledge I would gain. I cannot wait to start the journey toward becoming an AA. |
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| Randall Inzano |
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| I am 41 years old and have been working as a Respiratory Therapist since the spring of 1995. The Anesthesiologist Assistant Program was first suggested to me five years ago by an Anesthesiologist who was impressed with the quality of the graduates from this school. I recently graduated from Cleveland State University with my B.S. in Health Sciences and I am looking forward to starting graduate school. Every physician and health professional whose opinion I have asked has agreed that the program at CWRU is a wonderful opportunity. I know that this is the right career choice for me. |
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| Erin King |
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| I graduated from Cedarville University in 2007 with a B.S. in Biology and a Bioethics minor. From there I went on to study at Wayne State University in Detroit, MI, where I earned a Master of Science degree in Basic Medical Sciences. I have always been interested in medicine, and I had planned to go to med school upon finishing my Master's degree. However, after getting engaged last year, I realized that I needed a career that would allow me to have a more balanced lifestyle. I heard about the MSA program at Case, and after looking into it I knew that this was the perfect program for me. I am excited that I have found a career that will provide me with an exciting and challenging work environment where I can not only make a difference in the lives of patients, but still have time to devote to my family! |
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| Oksana Kozlovskaya |
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| I graduated from John Carroll University in 2010 with a B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology with a concentration in Biochemistry. I have known about the AA program at Case ever since high school and have strived all through college to ensure that I become a part of it. I originally became interested in anesthesia after a serious struggle with a family illness and eventually become more intrigued in the field through my growing background in biochemistry. Moreover, I knew that Case's program would offer the best education and experience available because of their high standards and immediate clinical focus. I am very excited to have finally reached my goal and cannot wait to start! I know that upon graduation of the Master of Science in Anesthesia Program at CWRU, I will be confident in my skills and be prepared to the upmost level to become an Anesthesiologist Assistant. |
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| Heather Ragazino |
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| I graduated from Ohio State University with a major in Accounting, and worked as a Certified Public Accountant in both public accounting and banking for the next 8 years. At that time, I decided to stay at home with my 2 young children while re-evaluating my career options. While I had enjoyed success in the business world, the work was not emotionally fulfilling to me, and the long evening and weekend hours were not suited to raising a family. A friend told me about the AA profession and, upon further research and shadowing, I was sure that this was the career for me. I spent several years taking the prerequisite course work and am looking forward to a long and rewarding career as an AA! |
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| Abby Rhoades |
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| The summer before my junior year at Walsh University, as I was in the process of applying to dental school, I discovered the Anesthesiologist Assistant profession and the program at Case Western. I was having reservations about my true desire to become a dentist, so the AA field - which I was not previously familiar with - was an exciting discovery (as opposed to other obvious alternatives like medical school, pharmacy school, etc.). I immediately scheduled a visit to UH, and after my first shadowing experience I knew it was the perfect career path for me. It will allow me to have a rewarding yet challenging health care job with considerable patient interaction, without the time commitment of dental or medical school. While there are multiple AA programs, the friendly and intelligent staff and students, impressive program history, and focus on clinical experience made choosing Case an easy decision for me. Every time I have stepped foot in the MSA offices I have anticipated one day entering as a student, and I'm so thankful to be given that opportunity as part of the Class of 2012! |
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| John Paul Roman |
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| I graduated from Pennsylvania State University in 2009 with a B.S. in Biology. After graduation, I took a position as a Research Assistant at a Biotech company. The work was interesting, but I felt that I wanted to do more with the degree that I had earned. The more I learned about the Anesthesiologist Assistant program at CWRU, the more it seemed like an ideal fit for me. The program offered the opportunity to further my education in Biomedical Science, and work toward a degree in the healthcare industry that would move me from the lab to working directly with patients. I’m looking forward to a career where my skills and knowledge are valued, and I feel fortunate to have found out about the AA profession. |
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| Erika Tully |
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| I graduated from Baldwin-Wallace College in 2004 with a degree in music performance. Originally I had wanted to become a music teacher, but after my sophomore year, I decided that teaching music was just not for me. I also realized that any occupation in the music field would involve teaching it in some way, and so I began my search to find a better path. During my junior year, I started researching medical school and was relieved to find that I would not have to change my major. I immediately began taking the required science courses. A few years passed and after having two wonderful kids, I came to the conclusion that I did not want to become a doctor anymore. I knew I would not want to spend so much time away from my family and was excited when I found out about the MSA program at Case and came in for a shadow experience. I had finally found what I wanted from my career; being able to make a positive difference in people’s lives and also having time to enjoy my family. I started to finish the rest of the prerequisites, and cannot wait to start classes in June! |
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| Michael Vaughn |
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| I graduated from Case Western Reserve University in 2010 with a BS degree in Chemistry and minors in Economics and Biology. I learned about the MSA program at a health science fair during my sophomore year. I realized that this program would be a good fit for me because it meshes my desire to be involved in health care with my interests outside of my profession, including family life and my running. I know that the MSA program at Case has an excellent reputation, and I am honored and excited to be a part of it. |
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| Phillip Williamson |
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I graduated from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania in 2010 with a B.S. in Biology and Chemistry (summa cum laude). From the beginning of my college education I knew I wanted to have a career in medicine. I thought the only option I had for such a career was medical school, but shortly after I took the MCAT I received a brochure in the mail. It was from the Master of Science in Anesthesia Program at Case Western Reserve University. This was the first time I had ever heard of the Anesthesiologist Assistant profession and I was curious to learn more. I began researching the profession and was surprised to see how fast it was growing and the academic credentials needed to be admitted to one of these schools.
The next step was to schedule a shadowing experience, which was everything that I expected. I was pleased with the patient interaction and the interactions that an anesthesiologist assistant has with other health care professionals. Lastly the staff at Case is amazing and made the whole process a lot easier because they are so kind! I am proud and excited to be a part of the Class of 2012! |
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Class of 2012 - Houston Campus |
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| William Bell |
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| I graduated with honors from Ohio University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. I’ve always known that I wanted to work in the medical profession. Nonetheless, as an undergraduate, I decided to explore my opportunities in genetic/cellular research with an application to medicine. I extensively enjoyed my research experience, but I wanted to feel as though I was on the front line of medicine. After I received my degree from Ohio University, I entered an accelerated nursing program. There, I gained valuable clinically-based experience and learned a tremendous amount about communication, interpersonal interactions, and most importantly compassion, within the medical setting. I had previously shadowed AAs at University Hospitals through the CWRU MSA program and decided that being an Anesthetist was the perfect career for me. Now, I am truly blessed to be a part of the MSA program at Case Western. I’m really looking forward to this amazing rewarding career which Case has made possible for me! |
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| Eliza Benson |
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| I graduated from University of Wisconsin Madison in 2009 with a B.S. in Biology and Zoology. After graduating I was still not sure what I wanted to do but knew that I wanted a profession in the medical field. I heard about the MSA Program at Case through a friend and once I began looking more into it, I decided to do a clinical shadow with an AA. Once I had done my clinical shadow, I knew that I wanted to become an AA and attend the program at Case because of its high reputation. |
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| Kerry Chemnitz |
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| Not available at this time. |
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| Kelly Day |
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| I grew up in Brecksville, Ohio. Throughout high school I was a sitter for an anesthesiologist who introduced me to the anesthesiologist assistant profession. I had an interest in this occupation right away and knew it was something I would look further into when planning my career path. I earned a B.S. in Human Nutrition at Ohio State University in 2009. While working towards my bachelor’s degree I explored the AA profession further. After volunteering at the OSU medical center and shadowing multiple anesthesiologists and AAs, I realized that this was the right career for me. I have always wanted to work in the health care field and have a career that would challenge me, allow me to help others, and also permit me to enjoy life and family outside of work. After graduating from OSU, I applied to the MSA program. Case’s MSA program was highly recommended by every anesthesiologist and AA I had talked to. Their clinical experience and small classroom size are known to be very beneficial. I am looking forward to starting the MSA program at CWRU in Houston! |
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| Ross DeVoe |
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| I am from Columbus, KS, and graduated from the University of Kansas with a B.S. in Cell Biology. Growing up I was always fascinated with the medical field and planned on becoming a doctor for the longest time. Upon graduation I was no longer sure if medical school was right for me but knew I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. After graduation I started working as a phlebotomist and not long after learned of the AA profession. After researching the career and shadowing several anesthetists I knew this was exactly what I wanted to do. I was drawn to the career because it is a thinking profession, but also very hands on and very diverse from case to case. Becoming an AA will give me the opportunity at a challenging and rewarding career while still being able to maintain a balanced lifestyle. I am excited to be part of the inaugural class in Case’s Houston program and look forward to starting in June. |
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| Nathaniel Flath |
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| I graduated from Bluffton University in May of 2009 with a B.A. in biology and a minor in mathematics. My parents were both involved in E.M.S. when I was younger, and I have always felt called to the medical profession. This explains my pre-med track throughout high school and college, yet I was never truly excited about this field. It wasn’t until stumbling upon a pamphlet CWRU had sent me and hours of research into the AA profession that I became enthusiastic about my future career. Upon shadowing an AA at UH, I knew the MSA program is what I had been looking for to reach my dream and I knew there was nowhere more prestigious than CWRU to achieve this. Also, after visiting Houston, TX, and the TMC, I am extremely eager to begin the program through CWRU and experience everything the TMC has to offer. |
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| Philip Hunek |
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| I am from Cleveland, Ohio, and I graduated from the University of Toledo in 2005 with a BS in Biology and a BA in Chemistry. My original intent was to enter into medical school after graduation, but after spending time in a Master's program at Case to improve my chances of being accepted, I decided that med school wasn't for me. I have spent the past few years coaching high school hockey at St. Ignatius and working in the chemistry labs at the Cleveland Clinic. I have continued to have an interest in medicine and had spent a lot of time researching different career choices when I was introduced to this field through shadowing at the hospital where my mother works. I was instantly drawn to anesthesia and believe that this program will be the best way for me to start my career. |
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| Jonathan Lau |
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| I was born in San Francisco, California and grew up in Hong Kong, China. I came back to the States to receive my undergraduate education at State University of New York at Buffalo. I finished my BS majoring in Biomedical Science and obtained my EMT-paramedic certification in 4 years. Right now, I am currently wrapping up my thesis for my Master’s degree in neuroscience before I move to Texas and reach my "final destination for study," the MSA program! I am interested in the MSA program as I believe the profession is the best fit for my personal interests and academic background. After I shadowed an AA and spoke with the staff and students at Cleveland’s University Hospitals, I am 100% certain about my future career as an AA. I am looking forward to school starting this summer! |
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| Daniel Lipian |
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| Before joining the MSA Program, my primary focus was in the political realm, where I most recently worked on policy issues with Congressmen and Senators at The Heritage Foundation in Washington, D.C. Prior to my time in Washington, I attended Bowling Green State University, where I received my B.S. in Physics. However, despite my science background, I actually spent more time engaging people politically than I spent in the physics laboratory: running statewide political organizations, speaking at conventions around the country, and engaging with my fellow students. Despite my scientific interests, at the time I never really saw the merit in a science career, because I felt it lacked the opportunity to interact with people. However, that all changed when I attended my first shadowing experience with AA Program Instructor George Yung at University Hospitals. Seeing the manner in which George related to the patients - calming them down both before and after surgery - and the incredible science behind the AA profession, I realized that being an AA-C represented the perfect combination of people interaction and hard science. Upon completion of my shadowing day, I immediately began taking prerequisite classes to prepare for this career, and I am both honored and grateful to God and to the amazing people at Case Western for accepting me into this incredible program. |
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| Aaron McBurney |
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| Before I applied to the MSA program at Case I served 5 years in the US Army as a stepping stone to achieve my educational goals of earning a BS in Biology and becoming an MD. As I applied to several Texas medical schools, I heard about the AA profession from some friends and fliers and decided to look into it further. When I truly understood what the AA profession was about and after I shadowed an AA, I completely changed my mind about going to medical school. Soon after, I applied to 4 of the AA programs across the country. Looking back now, I would have been crazy not to jump at this opportunity. The focus on developing clinical skills from the very beginning was one of the reasons why I chose Case. I am currently finishing my BS in Biology at the University of Houston Downtown and live in a suburb just north of Houston with my wife Rosalynn and two year old son Jacob. |
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| Vivek Nair |
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| I am from Circleville, OH, and I graduated from the honors program at The Ohio State University in 2008 with a bachelor's degree in Molecular Genetics. While at Ohio State, I was a student researcher in the field of Human Cancer Genetics. While I had always thought that I wanted to be a surgeon, I remained wary of the long hours and sacrifices that would have to be made in one's personal and family life in order to achieve that goal. As someone who had been on the pre-med path, I did not know how I could be a high-level, direct care provider in the operating room without going to medical school. That was until I learned of the Anesthesiologist Assistant profession and the MSA Program at Case Western. When I met with and shadowed AAs at Case, I could see how pleased they were with their place in the OR and with their ability to live a harmonious life outside of work. The Case program emphasizes early clinical experience and smaller class sizes, perfectly suiting the type of learning environment which I like. I am thrilled to have found this perfect fit for what I want in my career and I am very pleased to be a member of the first Houston, TX, class of the Case Western MSA Program. |
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| James Nast |
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| I graduated from Kalamazoo College in Michigan with a BA in Biology. My initial intentions were to go to medical school, but after I discovered the MSA program at Case, I was intrigued. I decided to shadow an AA at University Hospitals and found that it was a perfect fit for me. In order to apply I had to take an extra year to complete a few extra classes, but in the end, I know I have made the right decision to become an AA. |
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| Mariya Poretskiy |
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| I graduated Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, with a BS in Psychology. After graduating, I traveled around the U.S. meeting new people and working in new environments. I have always wanted to be a doctor and I believe patient care should be valued. The MSA program is a perfect fit for me because each case is unique, patient care is a priority and team work is required. In addition, I wanted to have a life outside of work and the MSA program provides this opportunity. |
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| Aislynn Samano-Walker |
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| In 2004, I graduated from the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas, with a BA in Theatre Arts and a minor in biology. After graduation, I was hired as an office assistant for a group of anesthesiologists where I quickly grew to love the discipline. I continued on to graduate school at the University of Texas Health Science Center where I received an MS in Human Anatomy. During graduate school, I was employed as a research associate working on mouse models with pediatric cancers, and I was recently published in the journal, Transgenic Research. I then moved to Chicago where I worked as a clinical research associate at the University of Chicago’s Comer Children’s Hospital. Though research has been a rewarding career, I longed for a job with more human interaction and clinical practices. Having already fallen in love with the field of anesthesia (I even got to do animal anesthesia in my research!), I wanted to find a career path that extended to clinical medicine but also allowed for the growth of a family. I recently married a man who is studying to be an anesthesiologist and he comes from a family of anesthesiologists! My father-in-law first mentioned the idea of AA school to me, and I quickly began researching the exciting career of an anesthesiologist assistant. A great career taking care of patients with good salary and still time for an outside life, it seemed too good to be true! Within a matter of time, I had found the perfect program and I am thrilled and honored to be accepted into the inaugural class of Case Western MSA program in Houston, Texas! |
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| Justin Sona |
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| I was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico. After graduating high school I attended the University of New Mexico were I got a B.S. in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. I heard about the Master of Science in Anesthesiology program from a family friend, who is a certified AA, when I was still in high school. The program interested me but I had already decided on attending medical school by that time. It wasn’t until halfway through college that I switched to the MSA program, and I realized that with working in this field I would be able to achieve more of my life’s goals. One of the biggest goals I wanted to achieve was that I wanted to have a good standard of living while being able to have plenty of time for my family. This program seems like a great choice for me and I am excited to be a part of the first Case class in Houston, Texas. |
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| Frank Trazaska |
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| Not available at this time. |
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Class of 2011 - Cleveland Campus |
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| Uyen Bui |
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| I earned my bachelor's degree in molecular and cellular biology from the University of Michigan in 2007. My goal after graduating was to gain more experience working in a research lab and apply to medical school. I juggled work as a research assistant at Case and helped run a family owned business for a period of time before I learned of the MSA Program. After shadowing anesthesiologist assistants at University Hospitals, I realized a career as an AA was a better fit for what I wanted from life--the ability to practice medicine, and the time to pursue other interests in my life. What attracted me to Case's MSA Program in particular were the strong emphasis on clinicals and the small class size. Needless to say, I am eager for June, for classes to start, for late night studying and early clinicals, and for the bright future ahead! |
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| Jonathan Cox |
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| I am from Cincinnati, Ohio, and graduated from The Ohio State University with a B.S. in Molecular Genetics in December 2008. I always knew that I wanted to go into the medical field but didn't know exactly what path I wanted to take to get there. During my undergraduate years I shadowed several different professions and was immediately drawn to anesthesia. I heard about the MSA Program though a few friends that are current students in the program. They had nothing but good things to say about it, and the more I looked into the program and the profession, the more I realized that this was the perfect path for me to take to fulfill my lifelong dream of working in a medical profession. |
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| Loredana Dandu |
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In December 2008 I graduated from the University of Michigan with a B.S. in Cellular and Molecular Biology. During my college years I explored different career paths. For two and a half years I was a research assistant in a lab that studied the effects of vitamin D on heart failure. Although I learned and grew through this experience, I ultimately decided I would not enjoy a career in the research field because of the years of work required before seeing a tangible result and little or no patient contact. Medical school was also an option I considered, but over and over I heard of the struggles, especially of female doctors, to lead a balanced life.
I was researching different graduate programs when my Mom, who works at a hospital, recommended the field of anesthesia, and I found the AA program. I really believe it is the best option for someone who loves patient contact and the responsibility and excitement that comes with working in the operating room, yet is searching for a balanced lifestyle! |
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| Joseph Harp |
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| I graduated from the University of Akron with a B.S. in Chemistry. During my undergraduate years at Akron I was involved with a couple of research projects in chemistry and related fields. I realized then that I was not meant to be in the research field and became more and more interested in the medical field. I thought med school was my only option to become a medical professional until my friend told me about the program at Case. I looked into the MSA Program and shadowed some AAs. I had a great experience and knew that I wanted to become an AA. I look forward to starting the program and am honored to be part of the class of 2011. |
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| Aida Harris |
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| I am from Shaker Heights, Ohio. I have wanted to be a doctor for as long as I can remember. I graduated from Denison University in 2005 with a B.S. in Biology. I went on to complete a M.S. in Biomedical Science at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. After finishing my Master's I was no longer sure if medical school was right for me. I studied for the MCAT but also began exploring other options. I found that my journey to get into medical school had given me tunnel vision and I was not aware of my other options in medicine. When I came across information on the AA program at Case I thought it was a perfect fit for me. I no longer wanted to be a doctor, but I wanted to remain in the medical field and have a career that was hands on and involved patient care. After shadowing an AA I was sure this was a great option for me. |
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| Brian Haskins |
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I graduated from Ohio University with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences. I have always been interested in the health care industry but thought I missed my chance by not pursuing it right out of college. I learned of the Anesthesiologist Assistant field through talking with a CRNA that graduated from Case. Since that day, I have researched the profession and Case’s program, updated my prerequisites, taught at a local college and spent time shadowing in the OR. Also, my son has had two surgeries at University Hospital. This solidified my desire to be part of the process that improves the quality of people’s lives. All of these experiences have convinced me that this profession is a perfect fit for me. I am looking forward to a long career helping others as an Anesthesiologist Assistant. |
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| Robert Jones |
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In May 2005 I graduated from Auburn University with a B.S. in Biomedical Sciences. My plans were to enter medical school or some profession in the healthcare field. During discussions of career choices with friends, I talked with someone entering Case's MSA Program. His enthusiasm and description of the Anesthesiologist Assistant profession sounded like a field that I would not only enjoy, but where I would excel. The length of the program compared to medical school was also appealing.
After graduation, I took a position as a research technician at the Medical University of South Carolina. This job gave me the opportunity to work in a hospital setting with doctors from different departments such as neurosciences, cardiothoracic surgery and transplant surgery. Most of our research involved anesthesia and surgery on small mammals. I really enjoyed this aspect of research but knew patient interaction was missing. During this time I was also able to shadow in an OR several times where I fell in love with the exciting and professional atmosphere. With further research into the AA profession and what prerequisites were needed to apply, I decided that the AA profession provided the OR atmosphere and the patient interaction that I wanted. I quickly enrolled in prerequisite classes at the College of Charleston and took the MCAT. I chose Case's MSA Program because of their history in producing quality AAs. Also, the size and the clinical settings of the program afford an outstanding atmosphere for students. I am finally where I want to be in my career and look forward to the future! |
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| Greg Lillvis |
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I graduated from Hiram College in May 2005 with a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry. I decided to take some time off and explore areas outside of science, such as business and manufacturing - an unknown to me. Although successful, I found myself unfulfilled, both intellectually and emotionally, and realized my original inclination of medicine was correct. After taking the MCAT a second time, the MSA Program found me. Enthusiastic about all that was medicine, I approached it with an open mind and was immediately impressed. A dynamic work environment, hands-on experience and direct patient care are characteristics of my ideal profession - all of which are found in the MSA Program. I could not be happier to have this opportunity.
I am so glad the MSA Program found me. This program is a hidden gem in the world of medicine. I strongly recommend a job shadow, like I did, to anyone considering medicine. Medical school and residency are a perfect fit for some. This program is a perfect fit for me. I look forward to my future, to working in an OR - on a surgical team and making a difference in patients' lives. |
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| David Martin |
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Right out of high school I knew that medicine was where I belonged. At the age of 16, I was in an auto-pedestrian accident that placed me in the hands of a medical staff I will never forget. Provided my experience would be very pleasant, I sought a profession that would allow me to be "hands on" with clients and one that would serve some "medical" benefit. That profession was massage therapy. I have been practicing massage therapy for seven years now. While in my practice, I was also attending Texas A&M University. I graduated there with my B.S. in Biological Sciences in May 2008 and then started working as a biology teacher and coach at a high school in Dallas.
My curriculum was based on pre-medical classes that would prepare me for my future in medicine. I have always wanted to be in anesthesiology since my accident, so during my free time I started shadowing anesthesiologists in Dallas. After taking the MCAT, I received a brochure about this amazing profession. The program is only two years which will lay the pathway for a remarkable lifestyle. Although the brochure was from another school with the same program, it only took one visit to Case Western Reserve to decide this was the place for me. The staff is very prompt and efficient. The class sizes are ideal. The area is full of culture. I am very excited to start my new career and urge anyone thinking about going into medicine or anesthesiology to check this program out! |
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| Natalie Morello |
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| In August 2008 I graduated from Ohio University with a Bachelor of Science in Sport Sciences. I then figured out that it was not exactly what I saw myself doing. I switched my attention to the medical field, but I was still unsure as to what career I fit into. My advisor at Ohio University gave me some encouragement to explore different careers in the medical field. Once I came across the MSA Program and shadowed for the first time, I was hooked. It was everything I was looking for--the environment, the patient contact, and the coursework. I could not have been more excited. Case offered a small class size with a hands-on learning experience that I knew would be beneficial. In two years, I'll have a rewarding career benefiting others that I know I will love, and one that I will always be grateful for. |
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| Angela Nichols |
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Prior to joining the MSA Program I was a full time student at Case Western Reserve University. I will graduate a year early with my B.A. in Chemistry in May 2009 with less than a month off before classes start! I heard about the MSA Program the summer after my freshman year but did not decide to give up my dreams of going to medical school to become a pediatrician until half way through sophomore year. I was stressed about my grades, overwhelmed at the thought of 4 more years of school and another 3 years of residencies, and worried about my ability to start a family in time. At that point, I switched my major from Biology, Pre-med to Chemistry and decided to graduate a year early and enter the MSA Program immediately after graduation. I am lucky to have found out about the program when I did and have been looking forward to being a student for almost two years.
The AA profession is perfect for me because of its diversity from day to day, case to case. It is a great balance between being involved in the health professions field and helping to change someone's life while still being able to have family time. Being an undergrad at Case, the familiarity of the campus and surrounding areas is appealing. I have seen and heard wonderful things about this program specifically at Case and can't wait to experience it for myself! |
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| Souvanny Phomsavanh |
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| I earned a B.S. in Psychology in 1999 and went for my master's in industrial psychology right afterwards. After working in that field for about a year, I decided that this type of work was not what I wanted to be doing for the rest of my life. Since then, I’ve been researching all the careers available that would suit my strengths, interests, and the lifestyle I wanted to live. I wanted to have the opportunity to work hard at improving the quality of lives of others while being able to have a very full life myself. I do not know of many professions that can offer these rewards at such a level as being an AA can. So I do feel very confident that I did make the right career choice this time. I know it will be a tough road ahead, but I sure am excited to be on it. |
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| Erika Swanson |
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| I graduated from the Honors Tutorial College of Ohio University with a B.S. in Biological
Sciences and a chemistry minor. I had intended to go to medical school, but the closer I got to graduation, the stronger my reservations about that career path grew. Medical science and helping people were my life's passion, but I also wanted more balance between my career and my life outside the hospital than is easily obtainable as a physician. The answer to my dilemma literally fell into my lap one day, in the form of a mailed brochure from Case Western Reserve's Master of Science in Anesthesia Program. I had never heard of Anesthesiologist Assistants before, so I researched the career, talked to AA students, and shadowed practicing professionals. Their enthusiasm for this profession and the amazing role they play in the anesthesia care team inspired me! Though I was also accepted into my dream medical school, I knew I would be happiest with the clinical challenges, meaningful patient interactions, and balanced lifestyle of an Anesthesiologist Assistant. I am so excited to be in Case Western Reserve's MSA class of 2011!
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| Colleen Traud |
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| In 2004 I graduated from the University of Dayton with a bachelor's in Fine Arts and a teaching certification. Due to faulty test scores, and a mix up with my fingerprints, I was unable to obtain a teaching license in time to get a job for the 2004-05 school year. I then became a substitute teacher. This experience taught me many lessons; one lesson being the teaching profession was not for me. I switched gears, took a job in an Orthopedic Surgeons office as an IDD Therapist, and decided to go back to school. While working in the medical field I decided I wanted to become a DO. My social science courses changed to pre-med courses and the classroom was exciting again. Still there was something unsettling about my career path. I wanted a challenging career in the medical field, but I also wanted to have time for my family. I figured my apprehension of becoming a doctor was normal but I decided to research other medical professions just to be sure. After my MSA shadowing experience I felt a weight lift off of my shoulders; I found my career. I am fortunate to have taken a less direct path. I am still an artist (unfortunately for the reader this does not extend to my writing), I am now a wife and a new mother, and I am excited to become an anesthesiologist assistant through my work as a student in Case's MSA Program. |
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| Anthony Tripi |
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| I graduated from Kent State University in December 2008 with a B.S. in Biology and Pre-Med. I was introduced to the program by my uncle in my senior year of high school and decided to participate in a summer internship during college. The internship provided an opportunity to discover the career of an anesthesiology assistant and made my decision definite to continue my educational path and achieve a Master of Science in Anesthesia. I chose the MSA Program at Case because I feel that it is one of the best programs and will successfully prepare me for my future endeavors. An additional benefit to studying at Case is remaining in the Cleveland area. I have lived my whole life around Cleveland and would like to work in the surrounding hospitals. I have heard nothing but positive remarks on how successful this program is, and I am very eager and excited to continue my journey to becoming an AA. |
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