March 19, 2025

Established in 1967, there are currently more than 178,700 physician assistant (PA) practitioners in the United States. Sophomore health sciences major Anuj Patel ’28 aims to become a licensed PA upon his graduation.

Physician assistants (PAs) are clinical professionals eligible to practice medicine under the legal supervision of a physician upon graduation from an accredited program with a nationally certified state license. PAs perform many duties including, but not limited to physical examinations, diagnosis and treatment of illness, assisting in surgery, prescribing medicines and providing patient education.

Patel is currently a student in the Pre-PA bridge program—which is an accelerated program that enables students to complete their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in health sciences and sit for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) in 5.25 years.

Although the road to becoming a physician assistant is demanding, the Connecticut native remains optimistic. He notes that the supportive environment helps to keep him motivated.

“The staff and students are amazing. The faculty has done an amazing job preparing me for the real world through labs and lectures. I’ve gained insights and experiences that many students at other universities don’t get until much later in their collegiate careers,” he says.

Patel always knew that he wanted to work in the health care field, and he noted that the health sciences program affords him the flexibility he desires.

“I went to college knowing I wanted to be in the health care field, but I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do specifically. The [health sciences] program allows me to explore career choices within health care administration, physical therapy and even the opportunity to become a physician assistant,” he said.

Patel also mentioned that the push to become a PA stemmed from a familial recommendation.

“My uncle, a pharmacist, actually introduced me to the PA profession. When he told me about it, I knew instantly this was what I wanted to do with my life. As a physician assistant, you have the perfect blend of patient care, flexibility and work-life balance,” Patel said.

Completing his Master of Health Science (MHS) as a physician assistant will contribute to his ambition of opening a private practice. Inspired by his uncle, Patel explained that he hopes to create a practice where patients feel comfortable and supported.

“My career goal is to open my own private practice. My uncle, who opened his pharmacy, showed me firsthand how personalized care can positively impact a person’s life. The trust and bond between his patients and him are something I strive to have in my career,” he said.

In addition to his academic studies, Patel is a member of the Pre-PA club, Drexel MedFit and Drexel University’s Student Nurses Association (DUSNA).

By Myleah Herbert; Marketing '25