Q&A: Amanda Jernigan, MPA, PA-C (MPA '17)
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Amanda Jernigan graduated from EVMS’ Master of Physician Assistant program in 2017. Her subsequent success in precepting and teaching led to an appointment as co-director of a fellowship program sponsored by CHKD and EVMS. Jernigan knew that a Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) degree would further enhance her credentials and leadership skills. Read more about her path to becoming a PA and her decision to pursue a DMSc at EVMS.
What first led you to EVMS?
I was drawn to EVMS first by the location. I am originally from North Carolina, with many ties to family and friends in the Outer Banks area. The proximity to home and work for myself and my husband made EVMS the perfect choice for PA school. The location in the heart of Hampton Roads was only enhanced by EVMS' standing as one of the top PA programs in the nation, its reputation within the community and its commitment to the Commonwealth.
What led you to pursue a DMSc degree?
Since becoming a PA, it has been important for me to ensure that those students coming behind me have a great experience during their clinical rotations. As I have gotten into precepting and teaching PA and NP students clinically, I have been selected as one of the co-directors for the CHKD Pediatric Urgent Care Advanced Practice Provider Fellowship sponsored by CHKD and EVMS. This opportunity for leadership came with the realization that a DMSc degree not only added to my credentials, but also to my skill set and recognition as a leader for new graduates aspiring to become pediatric providers.
How do you feel the DMSc program is preparing you for future leadership roles?
Virtually every class during the DMSc program has had the focus of preparing us to be leaders in our field, within our organizations and among our co-workers and students. Specific focus has been placed on preparing us to help advance the vision of and respect for physician assistants through research and professional development on both the local and national levels.
Why EVMS for your DMSc?
After an amazing experience at EVMS for PA school, there was no question about where I would pursue my DMSc degree. Being familiar with the faculty and the school made the jump to the DMSc program seamless. The support and structure of the DMSc program have made it possible to continue to work full time, fulfill my job-related requirements of student leadership and our fellowship program and maintain home-life balance. Being able to say that myself and the other four doctoral candidates were part of the first cohort for the DMSc program has been special and something we will always be proud of.
What is your favorite memory at EVMS?
My favorite memory of EVMS has been all of the amazing people I have had the opportunity to work with and learn beside during the course of my PA and DMSc programs. EVMS students, despite many differences, are very likeminded in their determination to be successful and respected medical professionals. The caliber of individuals you meet in your programs, the school and during clinicals is life-changing and every day has challenged me to be a better person and a better PA. I am truly grateful EVMS has taken a chance on me, now twice, and given me the launching pad I needed to be a leader in Hampton Roads.
Learn more about the Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc), a one-year program designed for working physician assistants to attain the culminating degree in their profession.