Rachel Lenz '21Physician Assistant

Name: Rachel Lenz

Graduation Year: 2021

Major: Biology

My Story: I graduated from Gustavus in 2021 and started working as a
medical assistant at a dermatology clinic following graduation. I learned so
much gaining hands-on experience interacting with patients that has helped
me immensely in PA school. I applied to PA school this past cycle and was
accepted to St. Bonaventure University in New York. I started school January
2023 and have had such a great experience so far.

Top Five Activities/Experiences: (in no particular order)
1. Watching all Gustavus sports
2. Leading Tri-Beta as the president
3. Playing for the women’s hockey team
4. Taking golf class
5. Gustavus Women in Leadership conferences

Advice:

1. Take a few weeks off of work or school before starting grad school to spend time
with family and travel. You get very busy fast, and the memories you make before
you start school are nice to look back on.

2. It feels like there is a self-driven pressure to apply for grad school right after
graduating college. Don’t be afraid to take some time in getting your application
together, not everyone’s timeline is the same, and it feels better submitting a more
complete application.

3. Any clinical experience you can get before starting grad school will help your
learning once you’re in.

Future Plans:
Attending St.Bonaventure University, starting January 2023.