Emphasis on diversity and inclusion led student to choose ATSU’s College for Healthy communities

Emphasis on diversity and inclusion led student to choose ATSU's College for Healthy communities

As an individual from a diverse background, Jayda Leanne Bowens, PA, '25, sought a school that placed an emphasis on diversity and inclusion when considering a Physician Assistant (PA) program. A.T. Still University-College for Healthy Communities' (ATSU-CHC) Central Coast Physician Assistant (CCPA) program provided exactly that.

"I chose ATSU-CHC because of its emphasis on diversity and inclusion, especially as a person who comes from a diverse background of African American, Japanese, and European heritage, and a diverse community," Bowens said. "ATSU-CHC approaches care on a holistic level, taking into consideration the cultural preferences of each individual patient and how other factors play into their health and/or care."

Bowens, a first-generation student from Rancho Cucamonga, California, has bachelor's of science in biology and master of public health degrees. At ATSU-CHC she serves on Student Government as American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) student representative, student ambassador, and member of the Black Student Association.

"I joined our Student Government organization to advocate for changes to improve student life and build connections with fellow classmates. I enjoy planning events for the student body because these events help to increase student engagement and provide opportunities for students to decompress from recent exams or other academic responsibilities," Bowens said. "In Student Government, we discuss how we are going to allocate funds for the year, advocate for student concerns and interests, and communicate new updates from the AAPA and CAPA (California Academy of Physician Assistants) organizations to students. As the AAPA student representative, I am able to attend the national annual conference of AAPA, allowing for networking opportunities, information sharing to my fellow classmates, and learn more about the profession on the judicial level."

During her free time, Bowens enjoys exploring the Central Coast, finding new coffee shops and restaurants, and working out. A new activity that's become a mainstay for her and her classmates in pickleball, with regular gatherings on weekends.

Bowens said she enjoys interactions and collaborations with fellow students at ATSU-CHC, which will help in their careers when addressing patient care. This all supports Bowens' vision for her future as a PA.

"I hope to become a physician assistant who advocates for not only the profession, but my community where access to healthcare is currently minimal," she said. "I hope to be a part of an organization that provides care to underserved communities and improves the social determinants my community faces. ATSU has helped me prepare for my career tremendously by catering my learning and foundation to the underserved community, from how as a PA I can address the determinants during visits, and understanding how to provide optimal care to these populations."