Missouri State University Physician Assistant Studies is happy to spotlight clinical student Courtney Estes, who serves as the treasurer for the Class of 2021. Nearing the end of her PA school education and inspired by her father, Courtney is ready to begin her new career providing exceptional care to her own patients. Read more on Courtney’s journey to PA below.

Hometown:  Springfield, Missouri

Colleges attended and degrees earned (major/minor):  Missouri State University with a Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology and a Minor in General Chemistry

Previous health care experience: 

I have worked as a pharmacy technician and certified medical assistant in Medical Oncology and Gynecologic Oncology at Cox Health prior to PA school.

Interesting fact about me: 

I have an identical twin sister who is currently in dental school in Kansas City, Missouri. We were both offered jobs and signed contracts to work for the same company after graduation.

Why did you decide to become a PA?

I decided I wanted to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant shortly after my father got diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Watching his health deteriorate is heartbreaking, but his resiliency throughout everything is inspiring. I want to provide my future patients with the same excellent care that is given to my father and support to them in their own health journey.

Describe your experience so far in the program.

Undergoing most of our PA education amid a worldwide pandemic has not been ideal. However, our class continues to excel time and time again. With graduation less than a month away, I reflect on the last 24 months and I am blown away by the amount of knowledge and experience I have gained while in PA school at Missouri State. I feel blessed to have been taught from the best faculty, staff, and clinical preceptors. Applying to and attending PA school has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding decisions of my life. I will never forget my time here at Missouri State.

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

What I like best about Missouri State’s PA program is the relationships I have gained along the way. We have some of the most kind and caring professors who check in to make sure we are doing okay. They truly do want us all to succeed. Our cohort has gotten very close over the last 2 years as well; I know they all will make great Physician Assistants. I will miss seeing everybody, but I am excited to see where we all end up as providers!

Do you have any advice for prospective PA students? 

PA school can be grueling at times. You may even question yourself along the way. But always remember why you chose this path because in the end it will all be worth it. Learn as much as you can, take time for yourself each week, make close friendships, and have fun during the process.

Current Rotation

I am currently in my last elective rotation in Gynecologic Oncology. Here, I have been able to participate in hospital rounds, first-assist in surgery, as well as medically manage patients undergoing chemotherapy.

What specialty or career goals do you want to pursue? Why?

Before I began PA school, I was passionate about serving the underserved community around Springfield. During my clinical education, I developed an interest in Pediatrics and Women’s Health. To my excitement, I have been offered a position in Family Medicine with Jordan Valley where I can help provide care to the underserved community including Women’s Health and Pediatric patients. I cannot wait to start!