Daina Chase Physician Assistant Student Presbyterian CollegeDaina Chase

PA Student
Class of 2022

Clemson University ’20
Major: Biological Sciences
Minor: Psychology

What activities and organizations were you involved in as an undergraduate? 

CNA at Clemson Downs, American Medical Student Association, PAWs for PA, Clemson International Service Learning, Pre Health Ambassador, Delta Delta Delta Chapter

What did you do after you graduated? 

After graduating, I stayed in Clemson working as a CNA at Clemson Downs. I also spent time with all of my friends before having to head our separate ways. I then spent the rest of the time at home during quarantine with family, relaxing, crossing books off my reading list and laying out at the pool.

If you’ve done any volunteer work, please list what you’ve done and where.

During my time at Clemson, I volunteered at the Clemson Free Clinic which strives  to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality health care. I also attended a medical mission trip to Costa Rica for two weeks the summer after my sophomore year. Also every year I volunteered for Night to Shine, which is an unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs ages 14 and older.

How or why did you become involved in this volunteer work?

I have always been eager to be involved in volunteer work whether that is donating blood or actively packing meals for Meals on Wheels. Through medical-related organizations such as American Medical Student Association, Clemson International Service Learning, Paws for PA etc, I was easily guided to these volunteer opportunities. After learning about the Clemson Free Clinic, I was eager to volunteer to gain medical experience and serve the community.

What are some of your hobbies or interests?

Group fitness classes, hiking with my mom, watching Harry Potter on repeat, any and all rom coms.

Please let us know about anything weird, quirky, or unusual that you’d like to share. 

I love sushi, Clemson football, and my dogs Tucker and Cooper.

Why do you want to be a PA? 

I first was interested in the healthcare field after volunteering at Camp LUCK, a camp for children with congenital heart defects. The cardiologist there allowed me to shadow him at his work and introduced me to the PA profession. After getting connected with and shadowing the PA’s there, I saw first-hand the team-based care and the PA’s vital importance within it to give the patient the best care. The PA taught me the kind of provider I want to be. I am excited to collaborate with other healthcare providers and constantly learn from and with them to provide the best care for each patient. Also the flexibility and work-life balance that the PA profession offers aligns with what I envision in my life.

Why did you choose the Presbyterian College PA Program? 

I love how the program emphasizes serving the community and positioning Clinton as “the center of the universe.” The way each student spoke about their individual experience and the level of rigor and involvement truly spoke measures. I am excited for the opportunity to continue training to become a passionate, committed PA who is ready to serve the community and advance the profession.