Shelby Johnson Physician Assistant Student Presbyterian CollegeShelby Johnson

PA Student
Class of 2022

University of Colorado at Boulder ’18
Major: Integrative Physiology
Minor: Public Health

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

I was an undergraduate TA for biostatistics and a member of the Biostatistics Club. I worked full time as a retail associate and volunteered with the Boulder SafeHouse Progressive Alliance for Non-Violence.

What did you do after you graduated?

After graduation, I worked as an optometric technician while continuing to take prerequisite courses for PA school. I also spent a few months shadowing several PA’s at an Army primary care clinic on Fort Bragg.

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

When I was working as a dental assistant, I volunteered with Colorado Mission of Mercy, which provided free oral healthcare services and dental procedures in rural towns throughout Colorado. After graduation, I continued to volunteer with the  American Red Cross.

What are some of your hobbies or interests?

I enjoy being outdoors exploring new hiking trails and lakes with my husband and two golden retrievers!

Why do you want to be a PA?

I love the lateral mobility the profession offers and the fact that PA’s are increasing access to healthcare. Becoming a PA will allow me the opportunity to pursue my passion for making a difference in people’s lives while continuously advancing my knowledge in science and medicine.

Why did you choose the Presbyterian College PA Program?

I’m excited to spend the next two years at PC because of the tight-knit community and because I feel my goals as a PA align with the vision and mission of the program. I felt right at home from the day I first met the program faculty for my interview!