Gerianee Ward

Gerianee Ward

PA Student
Class of 2025

Edward Waters University, ’22, Magna Cum Laude
Major: Biology

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

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Biology Club, Marching Band, Student Government Association

What did you do after you graduated?

Following my graduation, I worked as a Community Health Worker at UF Health in Jacksonville, Florida. Additionally, I also held a position as a pharmacy technician for a few months.

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

Ramona Elementary School- 3rd Grade Critical Reading Tutor, University of Florida Cancer Research Education & Engagement Health Equity Center – Student Researcher/Ambassador

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

Due to the pandemic, many elementary students’ reading skills fell behind due to the transition to online learning. As a 3rd grade critical reading tutor at Ramona Elementary School, I worked with young students to improve their reading skills.

What are some of your hobbies or interests?

I enjoy crafting and taking up various DIY projects.

Please include any family information if you’d like.

I was raised in Charleston, SC by my parents Felicia and Gerald, and have two older sisters, India and
Alexis. My entire family has been my unwavering pillar of support. They are constantly cheering me on and inspiring me to accomplish my goals.

Why do you want to be a PA?

When I became exposed to the career field of being a PA during my undergraduate career, it instantly sparked my interest. I deeply admire the profession’s characteristics, particularly the capability to make informed decisions and rely on relationships to guide my choices. My experiences working in various healthcare settings, as a CHW, pharmacy tech, and in family medicine, further motivated me to pursue a career as a physician assistant. I desire to be able to view individuals holistically, not only to diagnose and treat diseases but also to promote health through education and collaborative efforts within underserved communities.

Why did you choose Presbyterian College PA Program?

My experience during the interview at PC was very positive. The staff was incredibly welcoming, and it was evident that they were committed to the success of their students. The staff took the time to genuinely get to know me as an individual. To make my decision, I also reached out to former Physician Assistant students at PC, and their feedback was very helpful. In addition, as someone who came from an undergraduate program with smaller class sizes, I found it important to have that same sense of
community in a graduate program. I was also contemplating whether to continue living away from my support system or stay closer to home and attend PC. Choosing PC was the best decision I could have made for myself.