Colton Peltz, a clinical year student in the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies, serves as the President for the Physician Assistant Class of 2021. With previous leadership experience as the President of the Missouri State University Pre-PA Society, Colton shares his experiences, advice and career goals.

Hometown

Republic, Missouri

Colleges attended and degrees earned (major/minor)

Missouri State University B.S. Exercise and Movement Science Minor: Biomedical Science

Previous health care experience

Emergency Department Medical Scribe at Cox South

Interesting fact about yourself

I’m an avid scuba diver. I have used some of my breaks from school to go diving and spear fishing.

Why did you decide to become a PA?

My decision to become a PA stemmed from an encounter I had with one while I was a patient. I was a firsthand witness of the integral role that PAs play in the comprehensive care of their patients. After shadowing multiple PAs in the emergency department who all spoke highly of the profession, I made my decision.

Describe your experience so far in the program including your current rotation.

So far, I have completed clinical rotations in family medicine and cardiothoracic surgery. I have been impressed and inspired by the level of knowledge these PAs demonstrate within such an acute and challenging environment.

Why did you decide to run for Class President?

I spent two years as president of the Pre-PA society at MSU. I hoped that my experience would help with coordinating all of the volunteer events that our cohort would lead in our community. I am thankful to have had the opportunity to act as a voice for my program and the Physician Assistant Class of 2021.

What do you like best about Missouri State’s PA program?

I really appreciate our program faculty. Their hard work allowed us to continue our education despite all of the obstacles created by Covid-19. I enjoyed listening to lectures from a variety of physician assistants and physicians that work in the Springfield Community.

Did you do anything that helped you prepare for PA School?

I joined the Pre-Physician Assistant Society at Missouri State University. The society helped me build valuable connections with multiple PAs across a variety of different medical specialties. It offered unique volunteer opportunities and ultimately helped me get my job in the emergency department.

Do you have any advice for prospective PA students?

It can be easy to fall behind in the fast-paced environment of PA school. I’ve found success by studying consistently with a few of my classmates. We work together to talk through and understand complex course material. I have utilized priority lists a lot during PA school. Whenever I start to feel overwhelmed, I’ve felt that it helps to refer back to my list and take it one task at a time. Set goals daily, believe in them, and drive forward.

What specialty or career goals do you want to pursue?

I am keeping an open mind during my clinical rotations. I really enjoyed my time working in the Emergency Department as a scribe. I would be happy to continue my career as a PA in an emergency department. I also really enjoyed my cardiothoracic surgery rotation and would be interested in a career as a surgical PA.