Resident Cohorts

Asna Patel

Brayden Imel

My name is Brayden Imel. I am originally from Barbourville, KY. I graduated from Hanover College with a Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology and Integrated Physiology. I obtained my master’s in physician assistant studies at the University of the Cumberlands, Northern KY Campus. The University of Kentucky PA academic residency program was the perfect fit for me as a new Physician Assistant. This residency program has allowed me to improve my clinical practice, gain an immense amount of medical knowledge, and overall increase my confidence while forming many incredible connections. As a resident in the Acute Care/Trauma Surgery track at UK Chandler Hospital, I am gaining great experience in providing care to some of the most critically ill patients in the state. I have already improved my practice tremendously these past few months, and I am eager to see what the rest of my residency experience has to offer, and the opportunities that it will open for me in the future. Go Cats!

Keren Akakpo

My name is Keren Akakpo and I am excited to take on the General Surgery academic PA residency with UK and Baptist Health Lexington. I spent my childhood in Dayton, OH and graduated from a high school in Mansfield, OH. After completing my undergraduate degree in athletic training at the University of Akron, I embarked on a new chapter with my family to the bluegrass region, where I have called home for the past five years. 

My educational journey led me to the University of Kentucky's PA school. Throughout my PA school experience, I had a strong desire to specialize in a surgical sub-specialty. Rotations in general surgery/trauma, plastics, and orthopedic surgery further fueled this interest. I appreciate the ability to provide relief from pain and contribute to life-changing procedures. Additionally, I find satisfaction in comprehensive medical management outside the operating room.

I look forward to the ongoing exploration of my passion for surgery, making a positive impact on patients' lives, and embracing the continuous learning and growth in the field of general surgery. 

Niem Khan

My name is Niem A. Khan, I am from Trinidad and Tobago and moved to Queens, NY at the age of 15. I have spent a decade of Honorable service, as a Hospital Corpsman and Respiratory therapist while serving in the United States Navy. I graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. I completed my Physician Assistant training and education at, The University of Florida and graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies Degree. During my clinical rotations, I realized my drive and passion for Surgery. My most memorable experience was that of holding the heart during an actual trauma. My determination to pursue a career in cardiac surgery has led me to the Cardiothoracic surgery academic PA residency with UK at St. Elizabeth Hospital. My goal throughout this Residency program is to learn the skills necessary to provide the level of care in the operating room that all patients deserve. I believe that there is no higher calling in life, than to be in the service of others. This opportunity will provide the means to help change the course of someone’s health outcome, and ultimately obtain the tools required to provide compassionate and meaningful patient care.  

Tyler Cunningham

Tyler was born in Memphis (TN) and returned there to complete his MPAS at Christian Brothers University, but was raised in Bowling Green and calls Kentucky home. He completed his bachelor’s in biology at Brescia University (Owensboro, KY) and worked as a nursing assistant during the COVID-19 pandemic. During his PA education, Tyler completed a hospital medicine rotation at Baptist Health in Louisville, which first piqued his interest in inpatient internal medicine.  As a former collegiate baseball catcher, peer tutor, and club president, Tyler felt that he could best apply acquired skills of group leadership, communication, and delegation, in managing and coordinating patient care in the role of a hospitalist. He is very excited to be joining the UKPA Academic Residency Program in the hospital medicine tact at UK Healthcare (Lexington). During his residency year, Tyler will also be getting married to his fiancé, who he met in PA school and is also completing a residency program in emergency medicine at UK Healthcare. Tyler holds that all are created in the image of God, which drives his passion for healthcare. As Jesus ministered to the lowly and the sick, he aspires to follow in Christ’s example in his practice.  Outside of medicine, he enjoys hiking, sports, reading, movies, almost all kinds of music, and spending time with friends and family. 

My name is Ana Zapata, I am from Colombia and moved to Louisville, KY when I was 9 years old. I graduated from Hanover College with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. After graduating, I worked as a pediatric medical assistant (MA) where I learned more about the PA profession. During my time as a MA, I got the opportunity to meet many UKPA students who were completing their pediatric clinical rotations. I obtain great feedback from them, which highly influenced my decision to attend the UKPA program. During my clinical rotations, I realized I truly enjoyed helping patients manage and understand their chronic and acute illnesses and treatment plans. I value taking the time to discuss patients’ concerns, monitoring the continuity of care, and prioritizing preventative screenings. Therefore, I am excited about the Internal Medicine and Pediatric UK residency program with Baptist Health Hardin. I am eager to continue learning from amazing mentors and create a strong foundation of skills that will allow me to challenge myself and provide great patient care.

After residency, Andrea was employed with Baptist Health Lexington in General Surgery.

My name is Andrea Marchyn, and I am excited to take on the general surgery academic PA residency with UK and Baptist Health Lexington. I am originally from Portsmouth, Ohio, and attended Centre College in Danville, KY. Since high school, I knew the PA profession would be the perfect fit for me after shadowing a group of incredible PAs. I decided to continue my education in medicine with the UK Physician Assistant Program in January 2020. At the start of the program, I was intrigued by all aspects of medicine but amazed at how surgical intervention changed patients' quality of life. During my clinical year, I realized how drawn I was to surgery after my October rotation in general surgery. My goal through this residency is to expand my skills in the operating room to serve my patients best and learn about the operations that will best improve their lives. I am excited to serve The Commonwealth of Kentucky and look forward to the challenging but rewarding year!

After residency, Aubrey accepted a position with the Mayo Clinic in Arizona.

My name is Aubrey Eubanks, and I was born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri (Go Chiefs!!). I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Missouri where I obtained a Bachelor's degree in Health Sciences and a Minor in Psychology. During this time, I worked as a pharmacy technician, went to EMT school, shadowed extensively in neurosurgery, took part in medical research, and participated in various public health brigades in Honduras leading to a short stent of living there and learning from doctors in underserved community hospitals. I went on to complete PA school at Saint Louis University (SLU) and am now one of two ICU PA residents here at UK. Moving from a bigger city to Lexington, KY has been a great experience and I am grateful to have my fiancé, Jordan, and dog, Coco, on this journey with me! I chose to pursue postgraduate training because I wanted to bridge the overall gap between generalist PA training to that of a well-equipped critical care specialist. Critical care interests me specifically because it pairs two aspects of medicine that I find most compelling - patients with complex illnesses that represent the extremes of human disease and high adrenaline situations requiring quick thinking and stabilizing procedures. As a PA, I want to inspire compassion, education, and intervention, even in the most seemingly hopeless of times, as I can appreciate individual differences and share knowledge so that patients are well-equipped and able to lead healthier lives.

After residency, Genna was employed with UK Healthcare and accepted a position with the MICU at Good Samaritan Hospital.

My name is Genna Petrey, I am a newly graduated Physician Assistant seeking training and clinical experience in my specialty of choice through the University of Kentucky Critical Care PA Academic Residency. I am from Winchester, KY, and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences at Morehead State University. I went on to obtain my Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies here at UK. I knew from the beginning of PA school that I wanted to pursue a residency program. Critical Care really appeals to me because it is intellectually challenging with regard to the complexity of managing ICU patient care, while at the same time requiring providers to have a physical ability to perform high-acuity, life-saving procedures, often in an emergent setting. I will be challenged to learn and grow as a PA from the very beginning of my career. As a critical care PA resident, I will have the opportunity to impact the lives of patients and their families, potentially during one of the most vulnerable times in their lives. Being a healthcare provider is an awesome and intimidating responsibility, but I know that pursuing this residency will make me a better, more confident provider.

My name is Hannah Goodrum and I am from Raleigh, North Carolina. I attended North Carolina State University where I received my Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Biology. After obtaining clinical hours as a medical scribe, I attended Elon University where I received my Master's of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. During my clinical rotations, I discovered a passion for the challenges and endless learning opportunities that come with treating surgical and higher acuity patients. I believe my education and training have laid a solid foundation for my clinical practice but I am thankful for the opportunity to continue growing as a provider during my General Surgery Academic PA Residency with UK and St. Elizabeth.

After residency, Jana was employed with UK Healthcare in Neurology.

Jana Chadwell was born in Port Charlotte, Florida but spent her childhood in the rural areas of Russia with her missionary parents before coming back to the United States for high school and college. She graduated from the University of South Florida with her BA in Humanities and Cultural Studies in 2015. Because of her passion for medicine, Jana was accepted into the University of Kentucky PA program. For the past three years, she has been committed to honing her skills and identifying which field of medicine she would see herself working in. During the clinical year, Jana found that she would gravitate toward neurology. In July 2022, she obtained her Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies. Due to her desire to further expand her medical knowledge and provide better patient care, she decided to accept a position as a neurology resident and dedicate this next year to being educated in this vital subspecialty.

After residency, Jordyn accepted a position with Baptist Health Floyd in Indiana.

My name is Jordyn Underwood. I am a Louisville, KY native and attended the University of Louisville for undergrad, where I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. I decided to stay in Louisville to obtain my Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Sullivan University. During my clinical year, I noticed I enjoyed rotations that had a surgical component the most. These experiences influenced me to further my education in surgery through the University of Kentucky Physician Assistant program. I’m very excited about this opportunity to learn and grow through my General Surgery residency at UK and St. Elizabeth Hospital. I’ve always had a fascination with surgery and this program offers the opportunity to develop my skills. I look forward to furthering my medical knowledge, becoming a better medical professional, and gaining the tools to be able to provide the absolute best care for my patients.

After residency, Kelly was employed with UK Healthcare in Neurology.

Kelly McCormick immigrated with his family from Canada in his early teens, where he finished high school at Nelson County HS, in Bardstown, KY. He attended UK, obtained a BA in Marketing, and proceeded into the white-collar workforce. After a time as a sales professional and manager, he rekindled his love of learning and passion for medicine. He was accepted into the UKPA program and graduated in 2022. He is currently a Physician Assistant Resident at UK Neurology.

After residency, Onieta was employed with St. Claire hospital and they created a position for her in pulmonary/critical care.

Onieta Stewart, PA-C, completed a Bachelor of Science in Biology and countless hours of professional experience prior to completing her Master's of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Kentucky. As a resident of central Kentucky, Onieta has dedicated her professional career to help meet the healthcare needs of Kentucky’s rural and underserved populations by attending UK’s rural PA program at the Morehead Campus. She thrives on a team and thoroughly enjoys the hospital environment. She is empathetic and easily connects with patients, helping to ease an already stressful situation. Onieta takes personal ownership in directing their healthcare and is passionate about their success. She has strong interpersonal skills and functions well within a team. She is excited to learn and strives to be the best provider she can be. She is eager to expand her knowledge and skills through the UKPA hospital medicine residency at St. Claire Regional Medical Center.

My name is Thomas Saylor. I am originally from Shelbyville, KY. I attended Asbury University, where I obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management. After working five years in finance, I switched career fields – becoming an EMT. I later expanded my scope of practice by becoming a Paramedic and even certified in critical care transports. I attended Sullivan University for my Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. When not practicing medicine, I can be found playing guitar, singing, fishing, experiencing a new restaurant or sipping a glass of bourbon while listening to vintage records. I am excited to see what this year brings as I continue my pursuit of medical knowledge.

After residency, TJ accepted a position with the Medical Center of the Rockies for UC Health in Colorado.

My name is TJ Gray, and I am in the cardiac surgery tract at the UK academic PA residency program at Baptist Louisville. I am an Iowa native and completed my undergraduate degree at Cornell College in Mt. Vernon IA. I decided to continue my education in medicine and enrolled at the University of South Florida in Tampa, where I achieved a master's degree in medical science with the goal of attending PA school. I was accepted to Indiana State University, where I was fortunate to have clinical experience with a cardiac surgery team. The fine technical and medical skills involved in this specialty had me hooked right away, and I knew quickly that cardiac surgery was where my career would begin. My goal throughout my time in residency is to become a skillful and thoughtful provider as I learn the intricacies of this trade in medicine. Wherever my career may take me, I strive to improve the outcomes of the patients I serve and to enrich the lives of my peers through kindness and diligence.

After residency, Waliah accepted a hospital medicine position at Georgetown Community Hospital in Kentucky.

Waliah Muhammad graduated summa cum laude from John Jay College of Criminal Justice with a B.S in Forensic Toxicology and a minor in analytical chemistry. Her science and clinical background include scientific research, specifically using instrumentation such as LCMS, GCMS, molecular spectroscopy, and clinical laboratory science. Prior to completing her Master in Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) at the University of Utah, she worked for several years at ARUP laboratories in Salt Lake City Utah, as a molecular technologist MB(ASCP)CM in both the infectious diseases and molecular genetics laboratories. Her decision to pursue a residency in Hospital Medicine after graduating PA school was fueled by her passion to deliver compassionate, culturally competent, high quality patient care in acutely and chronically ill adult populations. She chose to complete a post-graduate residency at the University of Kentucky due to the program’s strong didactic and research components. As well as the exceptional mentorship from the attendings and faculty within the hospital medicine group. Outside of her professional duties she enjoys indoor cycling and spending time with her 3 children, Shakur (19), Hannah (17), and Saleem (6).

After residency, Brooke was employed with Baptist Health Lexington in General Surgery.

My name is Brooke Todd and I am excited to take on the general surgery academic PA residency with UK and Baptist Health Lexington. I grew up in Lexington then attended Morehead State University for undergrad where I played college basketball. I have always enjoyed staying active and living a healthy lifestyle. I decided to continue my education in medicine with the UK PA program. At the start of school, I was unsure what field of medicine I could see myself working in. During my clinical year, I realized how intrigued I was by surgery. I knew it was the field for me after seeing how life-changing the procedures could be. I loved working with the surgical team and learning from different people. My goal through this residency is to expand my skillset in the operating room and outpatient in the clinic to best serve my patients. I hope to someday work here in Kentucky where my family is at. I have a special interest in orthopedics and gynecology, which are both focuses during this residency. I am ready for the upcoming challenging yet rewarding year!

After residency, Danielle was employed with Baptist Health Louisville in General Surgery.

My name is Danielle Crum, I was born and raised in Louisville, KY. I attended Bellarmine University in Louisville, KY where I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Biochemistry. I attended Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, TN for my Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies degree. Recently, during my clinical rotation, I discovered my passion for general surgery. Surgery is tangible and offers such a wide scope of practice. I found that providing care to patients, in some of their most vulnerable moments, was both humbling and rewarding. I love the concept of patient care coming full circle, from the initial encounter in the clinic discussing risks and benefits and deciding upon a plan of care, to surgery in the operating room, to weeks later in the office for a post-operative visit, and all of the care in between. I am excited to further my medical knowledge and surgical skills to provide better patient care and challenge myself as a provider.

After residency, Deborah was employed with St. Elizabeth Healthcare in General Surgery.

My name is Deborah Barnett, I am originally from Illinois and recently graduated with my MSPAS from Elon University in North Carolina. I am excited to be entering the field of surgical medicine as a PA academic resident at UK. I find surgery to be a fascinating area of practice. It allows us as providers to take care of patients in especially vulnerable times and to be present with them through the process of pre-, intra-, and post-operative care. I also love the opportunity surgery provides to perform hands-on work, while learning the details of human anatomy. This year, I hope to continue to grow the fascination and respect I have for the human body, and to learn to better provide compassionate, and quality care to my patients!

My name is Kendra Hughes and I currently live in Covington, Kentucky but I am originally from Pendleton County. I attended the University of Kentucky earning my Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology in 2018. I recently graduated from the University of Toledo Physician Assistant Program in December 2020. In my free time I like spending time with friends and family, as well as training my new puppy, Gus! I have had a strong interest in surgery since being diagnosed with hemihypertrophy at the age of 12. Throughout my clinical year I completed a variety of rotations and fell in love with the surgical aspect of these experiences. My personal understanding as a patient along with my hands on education in surgery inspired me to apply for the surgical PA residency through UK. I am thrilled that this experience is offered at St. Elizabeth in Northern Kentucky, allowing me to give back to my community. I am most excited about gaining knowledge and experience in diverse elements of surgery, especially those I wasn’t able to see during graduate school, all while becoming a competent and confident PA! I am very grateful for this opportunity.

After residency, Linzi was employed with Baptist Health Louisville in Cardiac Surgery.

My name is Linzi Watson, and I grew up in Salyersville, Kentucky. I attended Morehead State University for undergrad and recently graduated from the UKPA program. I became a CNA in high school and quickly knew that I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. I knew that becoming a Physician Assistant was the best choice for me. Throughout PA school, I wasn’t sure which specialty I’d like most, and I honestly didn’t see myself working in surgery. My first surgical rotation was in neurosurgery, and I realized that I loved everything about surgery. I loved working within a team, learning hands on skills, and improving patients’ quality of life. It wasn’t until my last surgical rotation that I got to see my first open heart procedure. I had never seen anything more amazing. I was so impressed by the skill, communication, and efficiency of each member within the surgical team. After seeing that surgery, I knew that I wanted to be part of a cardiac surgical team. I am so excited to start my journey as a Physician Assistant in cardiac surgery and look forward to a challenging year full of growth and learning!

My name is Madeline Moore, and I am from Morgantown, KY. Before becoming a physician assistant, I attended the University of Kentucky where I was part of the College of Health Sciences. I am excited to return to the College of Health Sciences as a physician assistant resident to continue my academic journey and fulfill my dream of working in critical care. Working in critical care has always been a goal of mine. I enjoy the challenge of caring for intricate patients and the ability to use advanced medical technology to help critically ill patients make remarkable recoveries. I am looking forward to learning and working alongside my new colleagues in the intensive care unit and becoming a well-rounded and accomplished critical care physician assistant.

After residency, Megan was employed with UK Healthcare in Neurology for one year and then transitioned to St. Claire Hospital.

Megan Craft earned her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Kentucky College of Health Sciences. She has chosen to focus her interests in the field of Neurology. Megan is passionate about connecting with her patients and providing them with the best possible care.

Sallie Randall is originally from Georgia where she attended the University of Georgia for her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. She studied at South University in Richmond, Virginia and earned her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. She is a NCCPA board certified Physician Assistant dedicated to providing patient-centered, compassionate care. She is an avid lifelong learner eager to take on new challenges. She aims to practice evidence-based medicine for successful patient outcomes and to close gaps in healthcare disparities.

My name is Shae Cenkus and I was born and raised in St. Clairsville, OH. I obtained my undergraduate degree in biology from Ohio University and attended PA school at The University of Charleston in Charleston, WV. The PA academic residency is what brought me to Lexington, and I am so grateful for the amount of support I've already received. I will be focusing on Acute Care Surgery and Trauma during my residency, settings that I find both challenging and incredibly rewarding. I am absolutely ecstatic to begin my career as a PA at The University of Kentucky.

Wayne Caldararo is an undergraduate and Master's in PA Studies from the University of Kentucky.

Master's Project: Perceived Readiness Towards Telemedicine in an Internal Medicine Population: Assessing Barriers Towards Care for All

Kristyn Bossle

What is your educational background, where are you from, and how did you end up at UK?

I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois and went to undergrad at Illinois State University. At Illinois State I obtained my Bachelor's in biology and completed all the pre-requisites required for PA school. When I began applying for PA school I looked all over the country as I was ready to leave Illinois and explore a new place. UK was on top of my list because I have a sister in school at UK and my parents were moving to Tennessee. Whenever I interviewed at UK I loved what the program had to offer and all of the faculty that I met. 

Why did you choose to participate in UK’s PA Residency Program?

I chose to participate in the residency program because I really wanted to expand my surgical skills. Even before PA school I had an interest in orthopedic surgery. This is where I did a lot of my shadowing prior to applying to PA programs. I also completed an elective rotation in orthopedic surgery during school. My other rotations in general surgery, women's health, and breast oncology also allowed me to gain experience in the operating room. I loved being a part of surgery and due to its specialized nature it is difficult to get hired into a position as a new graduate. The residency program allows me to expand my knowledge and skills in surgical to be more marketable in my career. 

What has been the most rewarding experience thus far?

The most rewarding experience so far has been completing a full case in the operating room as the first assist on my own. When shadowing and during clinical rotations as a PA student you are often off to the side observing. It is very rewarding to finally be that primary first assist in cases on my own.

What has been your biggest challenge?

My biggest challenge has been working with multiple surgeons. In the residency position at Baptist we assist numerous surgeons in general, orthopedic, plastics, and gynecologic procedures. All of the surgeons do their surgeries slightly differently and it is important to be able to anticipate their next moves in order to assist them effectively. I am in my 4th month now and I am still meeting and working with new surgeons every week. Trying to learn and catch on to all the different routines has been a challenge. 

What would you say to other PAs or PAS students who are considering applying for the residency program?

I would say to consider one of the residency programs if you know you want to specialize in one of the areas offered. Although we get a great education during the PA program, our clinical rotations are only 4 weeks long and it is difficult to be prepared to practice in such a specialty in that short of a time period. The residency programs allow you to be fully immersed in that setting, learning and gaining hands on experience from the experts for a full year.

Kathleen Kolles

What is your educational background, where are you from, and how did you end up at UK?

I am from Georgetown, KY. I’m a Wildcat through and through and have always wanted to pursue my education at UK.  For as long as I can remember, I have felt a strong calling to the medical field and to the concept of healing. The enduring, intricate machine that is the human body has never ceased to amaze me. My undergraduate studies were at the University of Kentucky in Kinesiology and Health Promotion; it was during that time that I became interested in the PA profession, and more specifically, UK’s Physician Assistant Studies Program.

Why did you choose to participate in UK’s PA Residency Program?

I value continued growth; I knew that if I participated in UK PA’s Residency Program, I would learn so much more about inpatient medicine.  I have been learning how to manage very sick patients on a much more in-depth way than I was able to learn in my rotations for PA school.  I surely could admit or discharge a patient to the hospital now in my sleep (haha).  Something that I already valued but it's importance has been reiterated in my role as a PA resident in Hospital Medicine is how paramount team-work, communication, and interprofessional collaboration is when caring for patients at this level.

What has been the most rewarding experience thus far?

Getting to follow my patients throughout their hospital course.  As a Hospitalist, you serve as a gatekeeper of that patient's care while they are in the hospital.  You get to know your patients and their families, which is something I find very rewarding.  I have patients that are all over the spectrum as far as their admitting diagnosis, other conditions, and management.  Some of the most rewarding experiences I have had so far are with my patients admitted with complications of IV drug abuse who present with serious life-threatening infections such as endocarditis and osteomyelitis.  These patients often require a prolonged hospital course for IV antibiotics and this provides an invaluable opportunity for me as a PA resident to help them get their foot in the door for recovery.  Most of the time, these patients are at their breaking point, realize they need to accept help, and are ready to be treated.  Addiction can be very misunderstood but if it's treated like a disease, you can see people start to get better and take more ownership in their health.  I love collaborating with our Addiction Medicine Service at UK and Social Work to help these patients.

Have you had many challenges?

Absolutely, but that is how we grow as providers.  I have had to learn to manage time and how to prioritize my case load and what needs to be done.  I can have up to 7 patients on my case load and be discharging/admitting, calling consults, placing orders, talking to families, my attending, and writing notes.  It took time to get my flow down, systematically what works for me and is putting my patients first.

What would you say to other PAs or PAS students who are considering applying for the residency program?

DO IT!!!! If you want to learn how to manage complex patients, work collaboratively on a healthcare team, learn procedures such as lumbar punctures, paracentesis, thoracentesis; then this will be a great residency for you. It has been challenging, but so rewarding and I can say I have loved every minute of this residency in Hospital Medicine.

Dalton Gifford

After residency, Dalton was employed with UK Healthcare in Critical Care.

What is your educational background, where are you from, and how did you end up at UK?

My name is Dalton Gifford and I am from Grayson, KY. From a young age I knew I wanted to pursue a career in medicine. Following graduation from high school, I attended Morehead State University and completed a bachelor's in biomedical sciences. I went on to complete PA school at UK and graduated in July 2020 and am now completing the PA ICU Residency Program. I fell in love with UK the first day I stepped on campus and would love to continue to be a part of the UK family. 

Why did you choose to participate in UK’s PA Residency Program?

I chose to participate in UK's PA Residency Program because I wanted to specialize in ICU. During PA school you learn a wide variety of knowledge and skills but learning the skills and knowledge for ICU care can take years of clinical practice to develop a strong base. By completing a residency program, I will accelerate my knowledge and skill base in the ICU and gain experiences I would not be able to as a new PA. Completing a residency will also help me achieve my dream career of working as an ICU PA in an academic medical center, a dream that would be difficult to achieve without years of practice as a PA otherwise. 

What has been the most rewarding experience thus far?

The most rewarding experience so far has been the total ICU experience from start to finish. Seeing patients in a variety of surgical and medical contexts and getting to play a part in their journey with them and their family. The journey is often complicated and at times messy, but very rewarding knowing you can make a positive impact in their care regardless of the outcome.

What has been your biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge so far has been trying to absorb all the new information I learn daily. In PA school we use the expression "drinking from a firehose." The same phrase could not be truer for the residency. Each day critical care is evolving, and new skills and medical knowledge become essential for your practice. Learning does not end when your shift ends. To grow within the residency and keep up, especially during a pandemic, reading at home is essential.   

What would you say to other PAs or PAS students who are considering applying for the residency program?

The residency program is difficult but worth every second of it. As we learned in school, your learning doesn't truly begin until you start seeing patients and putting a face to a diagnosis or condition. Take full advantage of every opportunity you have in your rotations or clinical practice and seek out new experiences. You will never grow until you get out of your comfort zone.

I would like to thank all my mentors and preceptors that have given me the opportunity to further my education and be in the program I am now and allow me to grow in this program. It is your generosity and willingness to teach that allows students and providers to grow as a clinician and as a person. Thank you for all that you do. 

Kacy Clinkenbeard

What is your educational background, where are you from, and how did you end up at UK?

I received my bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky in Human Health Science and then received my MPAS at UK as well. I am from Louisville so I was pretty familiar with UK and found that it was the best fit for me in achieving my educational and professional goals. 

Why did you choose to participate in UK’s PA Residency Program?

I chose to participate in UK's residency program because halfway through PA school I knew I wanted to do acute care and felt that a residency would not only help me become the best provider I can be but also help me professionally in the future when I plan to pursue a career in physician assistant education. During my last few rotations, I did a critical care rotation at UK and that solidified for me that I wanted to do a residency in critical care. UK hospital also has high acuity patients and is a well-known academic hospital so that is what influenced me to do my residency here at UK. Plus, UK is home to me so I am very comfortable in Lexington and love it here. 

What has been the most rewarding experience thus far?

Starting your career in a pandemic is definitely not the way I planned to start, but it has definitely been rewarding being a part of the team that's taking care of the patients that are struggling with COVID-19.  

What has been your biggest challenge?

One of the biggest challenges has been finding a work/life balance. Residency means long hours and spending your extra time off doing research and brushing up on topics addressed during the week on rounds. But, I am slowly finding ways to better balance my days and things I love outside of work. 

What would you say to other PAs or PAS students who are considering applying for the residency program?

I would say that if you want to practice at the highest scope of your practice then a residency is the way to go. Residency provides you with so many opportunities to grow as a provider and a learner and provides you with mentors and educational opportunities that wouldn't be available if you were to go straight into on the job training. 

Tyler Pape

What is your educational background, where are you from, and how did you end up at UK?

I was born and raised in Lexington, KY. I've always enjoyed living here and never really saw myself going anywhere else for school. For my undergraduate degree, I went to UK and majored in Human Health Sciences. Following graduation, and two attempts, I was accepted to the UKPA program and graduated this July.

Why did you choose to participate in UK’s PA Residency Program?

While I thought UKPA did a great job preparing me to be a PA, I wanted to continue furthering my education and get more experience taking care of really sick patients. 

What has been the most rewarding experience thus far?

Doing my best to provide patients with the quality of care they deserve on a daily basis. 

What has been your biggest challenge?

I had minimal experience in the hospital setting and almost no experience in the ICU. It was difficult to learn the workflow.

What would you say to other PAs or PAS students who are considering applying for the residency program?

The Acute Care Surgery residency is a demanding program. However, the program provides you with opportunities to grow as a healthcare provider every single day.   For those interested in the residency program, I would recommend you complete a clinical rotation with blue surgery.