Meet some of the class of 2026! These students are a diverse, talented, and dedicated group of individuals with a variety of backgrounds, goals, and aspirations. Here are some of their stories and advice for future PA students!
Name: Hulda Anthony
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I earned a Bachelors degree in Neurobiology and Physiology from the University of Maryland, College Park.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as a Pharmacy Technician, and I also volunteered at my local hospital.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I chose CWRU's PA program because of how the faculty goes above and beyond to support their students. Every current student that I spoke with on interview day spoke highly about the faculty and how they really go out of their way to help them and are easily accessible. I also really love the small class size, and how the program is passionate about giving back to the community with various volunteering opportunities for PA students.
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: When looking for schools to apply to, make sure that their goals and mission genuinely resonate with who you are as a person. Be you throughout the entire process/journey! The only way to truly gain and keep the trust of others (and eventually patients) is by being your authentic self!
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I love spending time with my family, going out with friends, cooking, and painting.
Name: Nicolas Antonellis
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I graduated from Bates College in Lewiston with a BA in Neuroscience.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I completed a fellowship in a residential psychiatric program at McLean Hospital and worked as a medical assistant in a primary care office.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: Beyond the reputation of the institution, the faculty and students I met on interview day made me feel that this program really is a collaborative environment.
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Cleveland is very fun and affordable place to live -- keep that in mind when you are looking at programs!
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: Swimming, running, cooking, and facetiming my family are some of my favorite ways to destress.
Name: Jessica Alt
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I attended the University of Richmond and majored in Healthcare.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as an EMT providing non-emergent transportation, volunteered in a non-profit clinic for Latino community members, and worked as a medical assistant in an Urgent Care.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I chose CWRU's PA program because of its emphasis on community service, hands-on learning opportunities, and early clinical exposure.
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: While you're applying, make sure that you're also taking care of yourself! Build a solid foundation of habits so you're ready to balance your academic and personal life once you start school. Also, practice interviewing so that your interview day is exciting and your personality shines through!
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I love to cook, read, and go for walks, and I am currently training for a half marathon!
Name: Daniela Aranda-Nunez
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I went to the University of Detroit Mercy and earned a Bachelors of Science in Biology.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked 3 years inpatient as a nursing assistant on the cardiology unit which allowed me to connect with and care for a diverse population in the Detroit area. I was also a medical scribe at an internal medicine office and I volunteered as a pharmacy tech for a free clinic.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: The interview day was what won me over! The staff and students I met were all so welcoming and happy with the program which was a huge green flag. CRWU PA program also emphasizes community service and outreach which is something I am passionate about. Getting the exposure as a student I know will help me as a PA when I am out in the community.
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Remember to be authentic during the entire application process! Programs want to get to know you as much as you want to get to know the program to make sure it's a good match! Also, don't hesitate to reach out to programs if you have any questions before applying.
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I have two Shin Tzu's so I spend a lot of time with them, I also like to read, and enjoy going out to eat with friends and family!
Name: Cecilia Bulgrin
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I attended the University of Cincinnati and majored in Environmental Studies.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as an EMT-B and as a CNA on a cardiothoracic floor.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I love the community engagement aspect that CWRU provides! Plus, the faculty made me feel super welcomed on the interview day!
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Try new things and really immerse yourself in your clinical hours. Don't be afraid to mess up!
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: Hanging out with my dog, playing basketball, and trying new local restaurants!
Name: Jason Casado
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I attended Northern Arizona University and received a BS Biomedical Science with a Minor in Chemistry.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as a physical therapy technician and a medical assistant.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I could tell that the staff really cared about us as students and individuals because they made me feel very welcomed and supported starting on interview day. The association with Cleveland Clinic also definitely helped make the program more attractive!
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Be yourself and commit to somewhere you can see yourself being happy.
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I love to play tennis and golf when I can. Going to the Guardians games and checking out all the restaurants Cleveland has to offer has been really fun as well. There is definitely no shortage of things to do in the area!
Name: Brittany D'Souza
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I attended the University of Portland and double majored in Biology and Spanish.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as a scribe in a primary care office in a low-income neighborhood of Cleveland.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I fell in love with the program during the interview day! I was blown away by the kindness of the faculty, the SIM center and the access to some of the best hospital systems in the country.
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Be yourself during the interview day! It can be scary and stressful, but let yourself enjoy the process! Lean into it.
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I am a newfound pickleball lover! I try to make some time to play pickleball and I also play in a local rec volleyball league. I enjoy reading and spending time exploring Cleveland's food scene.
Name: Emma Freeman
Where did you complete your undergraduate education?: I graduated from the Ohio State University.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I was a nursing aid on various cardiac ICUs and a clinical research coordinator.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I’m from the Cleveland area so it’s so nice to stay close to my family and friends! CWRU has such a good reputation and excellent clinical partnerships, so the choice was an easy one to make!
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Make the most of your clinical experience! You learn so much by working in the healthcare system before school, so soak it all in!
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I play and coach volleyball! I also love to craft (crochet, knit, paint, embroidery, sewing). In my free time, I unwind by hanging with my 2 cats and watching reality TV.
Name: Catherine Han
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I attended the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelors in Public Health with a minor in Psychology.
What did you study in your Master's program?: I received a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as a medical assistant in gynecology and podiatry, and as a pharmacy technician.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I chose CWRU PA because of the commitment to community service and how they truly mirror their values in various parts of the program. The staff and faculty here are so welcoming and personable! Also, the clinical affiliations and amazing resources they offer were a bonus!
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Don't just blindly apply to schools; make sure you align with their values and mission! Don't be afraid to reach out to current students to pick their brains about their program! Really take in your interview day! It gave me a good idea of what a program was like in terms of culture, organization, etc.
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I love cooking, baking, going to workout classes, exploring the city, and spending time with my loved ones!
Name: Sofia Ivanoff
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I graduated from George Washington University with a BS in Biology.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I was an EMT and I volunteered for my school's EMS agency. I also worked as an EMT in a telemedicine office.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I chose CWRU PA program because of its emphasis on collaboration and inclusivity. From the start you can see how much the faculty cares and supports you every step of the way. The program is built in a highly organized way that promotes learning not only academically but also from your peers. I am very happy with the program.
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Have fun before school starts. Travel, hang out with friends finds ways to truly relax. Also, everything happens for a reason. Put your best foot forward and what is meant to be, will be. Don't be negative and have confidence in all the hard work you have done so far.
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I have joined a free running club every Tuesday and I attend salsa classes on Thursdays! There are many running/walking trails around the area, my favorite is the trail in Shaker Heights. Enjoy the summer while you can!
Name: Alexandra Jimenez
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I went to Whittier College and received a Bachelor's Degree in Biology
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as a medical scribe, caregiver assistant, and a histotechnologist.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I applied because I was familiar with the CWRU campus from past research program experiences and heard great things about the PA program. Ultimately, I made my choice to be a part of the CWRU PA program when I saw how welcoming and nice the faculty, staff, and students were during my interview and the high quality and extensive resources available to the students.
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Focus on applying to schools that have values that align with your goals!
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I love going to the park with my dogs Bruno and Cody. I also like trying new restaurants, hiking, and going to farmers markets and outdoor events.
Name: Brennan Ketteler
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I went to Western Michigan University and majored in Biomedical Sciences with minors in Chemistry/Holistic Health and Wellness.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I was a Patient Care Assistant on the General/Oncology floor at my hospital.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I chose CWRU because of its amazing resources, affiliates, and staff. The interview day really sealed the deal for me, you can tell how much Case values their PA program and how much they want their PA students to succeed.
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Be yourself! The staff here truly want to get to know you as a person.
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I love to read, bake, and try new restaurants with friends.
Name: Evan Ku
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a degree in Biology.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as a Emergency Department Technician and an EMT-B.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I chose the CWRU PA program because their mission and values aligned closely with those of my own. After learning about all the resources and connections they have to offer, I was confident this program would provide me with the opportunity to push myself and be ready for my future career.
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: Working on cars and going to the gym!
Name: Grace Lee
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I received a B.S. in Physiology and Neuroscience at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD).
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as a Optometric Assistant!
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I chose CWRU because of how well it lined up with my personal goals in terms of the mission statement and values. I always enjoyed serving the community, and the fact that the program implemented community service in the curriculum stood out to me. Also, I liked how welcoming and caring everyone was during interview week! Even though I was super nervous the day of the interview, that quickly went away with each interaction I had!
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I enjoy finding different cafes, including cat cafes, reading, spending time with my family and friends, and watching reality TV shows (literally one of my guilty pleasures)!
Name: Jennifer Lee
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I went to the University of Rochester and earned a Bachelor's of science in Brain and Cognitive Sciences.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as a float technician (OMFS, pain treatment, emergency department, pediatrics, and medical specialties), Emergency Department Research Associate, and a CNA-1 in Skilled rehabilitation Center and Dementia unit.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I chose the CWRU PA Program because of how inviting and genuinely invested the faculty were on my interview day. They expressed great interest in my future as a PA and aspirations outside of my career such as community service. Their values and mine aligned almost perfectly. They and current students also emphasized the importance of students' feedback in creating a curriculum that optimizes our experience and learning.
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Trust in the process and have a growth mindset always. I'd also recommend practicing gratitude for the people you meet and opportunities you find along the path of becoming a PA! Many times, I got stuck in my own head and compared myself to others but shifting my perspective kept me motivated and true to myself.
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I love to play tennis, read, bake, find new music, take fitness classes and volunteer in my community with my friends.
Name: Javier Lorenzo
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I attended Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi and majored in Biomedical Science while minoring in Chemistry and Business Administration.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as a pharmacy technician!
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I chose the CWRU PA program because of the phenomenal resources and encouraging faculty!
Name: Krystal Mach
What undergraduate degree did you earn?: I completed a Bachelor's degree in Human Biology!
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as a medical assistant in family medicine and a optometric assistant.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I chose Case Western Reserve University's PA program because I am deeply inspired by its commitment to making a positive impact on the community and supporting underserved populations. This, coupled with abundant opportunities for volunteer and pre-clinical clerkships, solidified my decision to join!
Name: Nishant Menon
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I graduated with a Bachelor of Public Health from Temple University.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: During my undergraduate studies I served as a volunteer EMT with Temple EMS. Following graduation, I worked as an ER technician at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and a trauma technician at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: The CWRU PA program offers a myriad of opportunities which can not be found at other programs. To begin, the faculty made it very clear that our feedback was important to them, and that changes to the curriculum and schedule were being made yearly in response to the feedback given by students. Along with the incredible schooling environment at the Health Education Campus, the program offered preclinical clerkships which exposes the class to various practices of PAs during the didactic portion. CWRU also offered a full cadaveric dissection and HoloLens VR anatomy as part of our learning. The program also offers a wide array of clinical locations such as the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, Metro Health, and the VA. The combination of multiple offerings and open communication by faculty made the decision easy for me!
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Start your application and asking for recommendation letters as early as possible, completing the form in pieces so that you are not overwhelmed by the time CASPA opens! Make sure to complete the CASPA application by the specified dates and try to submit your application as early as possible without compromising the quality of the application. Be sure to actually learn about the program you want to apply to, and make sure that the curriculum, goals of the program, and the offerings that the program has for career development are present.
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: Volleyball, cooking, and hiking are some of my favorite things to do outside of class and clinic!
Name: Kathleen Niedermeier
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I graduated from the University of Michigan with a B.S. Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience; Spanish.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as an aide in assisted living and memory care, a medical assistant in various specialties, and a PCT in a hospital.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I chose this program for so many reasons! The program provides lots of opportunities for student education in medicine and external factors affecting healthcare both in and outside the classroom. I especially appreciate the community involvement through pre-clinical clerkships and volunteering.
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Apply early and be confident in yourself. Take time to reflect on your personal strengths and let them shine!
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I love hiking and camping -- honestly, just being outside in general!
Name: Naza Okafor
Where did you complete your undergraduate education?: I graduated from Northeastern University.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I served as a medical assistant at an Urgent Care & Wellness facility.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: The pre-clinical clerkships offered in the didactic year were one of the biggest reasons that I chose CWRU. This experience is invaluable!
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Don't compare yourself to anyone else. It's hard not to but everyone has their own journey & unique qualities!
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I enjoy baking, reading thriller/mystery books and trying out new restaurants with friends and family!
Name: Priya Patel
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I attended the University of Cincinnati and earned a Bachelors in Health Sciences.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) in the float pool and on a GI floor, Clinical Support Assistant (CSA) in Pediatric Endocrinology, and as a Medical Assistant (MA) in Dermatology
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: The two big reasons I chose CWRU were the abundance of resources and the faculty! They were so welcoming during the interview, and it felt as if they really just wanted to get to know me as an individual, even amongst all the applicants. Also, they really do welcome constructive feedback and implement it to make things even better for the next cohort. Additionally, the resources here are endless, from the simulation center to the whiteboard walls, they really have it all!
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: My biggest piece of advice I can offer is to never compare yourself to others. Everyone is on their journey in life going at their own pace, and it is not a race.
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: Cooking, baking, reading, traveling, working out, exploring new restaurants and coffee shops, and spending time with friends and family.
Name: Clara Riggio
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in Exercise Science.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as a medical assistant for a dermatology practice.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I chose the CWRU PA program because everyone I met was so supportive and welcoming at my interview, and I could tell right away how much the faculty really wanted us all to succeed. The amazing hospital affiliations and the campus facilities were also a big factor for me!
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Just be yourself and be open to change. PA school is very challenging and fast paced, and it's a huge lifestyle adjustment. I think that you will learn what study methods work best for you as you progress through the program, but don't be afraid to reach out and ask for help from classmates or professors. You aren't always going to get everything right, and that's ok because that is how we learn and grow as humans and future PAs. Also, become friends with your classmates because they will be the people you spend the most time with the next couple of years and they will become one of your best support systems!
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I love to run and do any type of athletic activity! I also really enjoy playing sand volleyball, film photography, and going to concerts with friends.
Name: Revi Semanjaku
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I went to the Loyola University Chicago and had a Biology Major and a Spanish Minor.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as a Clinical Research Professional for about 8 years.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: The CWRU faculty, students, and staff made me very comfortable during my interview. They are all very relatable and down to earth people, and easy to talk to. I particularly liked the emphasis they put on students' wellbeing, both emotionally and mentally. As I current student, I feel seen and heard. It is always very reassuring to hear professors remind us that we are human first and should not forget our essence. PA school is just as hard, if not harder, than it had been described to me prior to embarking on this journey, but everyone at CWRU has made my journey so far much more pleasant and peaceful. I am excited for the next remaining 25 months as a student at CWRU!
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Come to CWRU! If you are someone that appreciates a well-rounded, collaborative, non-competitive and encouraging cohort/environment, this is the place for you. At CWRU you will be reminded and reassured that you are meant to be here and be a PA. The faculty and staff are very supportive!
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I really enjoy the sea/ocean - it's my happy place. I grew up spending summer months by the sea, so every time I get the chance to travel (which I also love), I escape to my happy place. Additionally, family and friends are my biggest support system, so I try to spend as much time with them as possible and do different activities. I also play recreational volleyball; have not been in the game for a bit, but looking forward to resuming, as my PA school schedule permits. I also enjoy watching mystery and thriller movies on a lazy or rainy day.
Name: Vivian Szymanski
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I graduated from CWRU with a bachelors in Biology and minors in Chemistry and Cognitive Science.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked in a nursing home and at University Hospital’s MICU as a nursing aide.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I chose CWRU because they have a ton of amazing academic and clinical resources and I had a lot of good conversations with the faculty during my interview.
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Be yourself and try to relax!
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: Outside of PA school, I enjoy reading and going on hikes with my husband.
Name: Mía Vargo
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I earned my BA in Cognitive Science from Case Western Reserve University.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I worked as an STNA at an assisted living facility and PCNA in the float pool at a children's hospital.
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: The faculty and staff were very kind and down to earth, and the commitment to serving the community was something that aligned with my personal values. The resources at CWRU and the Cleveland area was also something that set CWRU apart.
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: Make time for your hobbies and seek out experiences that interest you! Gaining PCE is important, but engaging in activities or extracurriculars that excite you will not only make your experience more enjoyable but also showcase your personality in your application.
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I love to travel, hike, watch movies, and listen to music!
Name: Alexandria (Ally) Villeneuve
Where did you complete your undergraduate education and what degree did you earn?: I graduated with a Bachelors of Science from Kent State University.
What did you do for direct patient care experience prior to applying to PA school?: I was a medical scribe in a emergency room at a level 1 trauma center (MetroHealth) as well as a patient care nursing assistant (PCNA) for a medsurg floor (Cleveland Clinic).
What made you choose the CWRU PA program?: I felt as home the second I arrived for my interview. The faculty and students made me feel like I belonged from the very beginning. I also enjoyed the class size as well as how important it is to foster a collaborative environment. The community outreach aspect really hit it home for me as I am from Cleveland, so being able to give back to the people around me and it be built into our program was such a cool aspect that I didn’t find in other programs.
What advice do you have for prospective applicants?: To be yourself during your interview! They already know you’re smart enough to be at their program so let your personality shine through!
What are some of your hobbies, interests, or activities outside of PA school?: I enjoy hiking with my boyfriend and our 2 dogs! Spending time with my family and friends is super important and I love to read! I am looking forward to continue traveling the world once I’m done with school.