We’re proud of the ambitions and accomplishments of our students and alumni – learn some of their stories in our monthly feature:
Student Spotlight
Cathryn Grove ‘20
Respiratory Care Program
Cathryn Grove always aspired to a career in health care that was hands-on and interactive with patients. While initially considering nursing, during a visit to a PA College open house she was more intrigued by the many health sciences career options presented. The field of Respiratory Care stood out and as she did more research, Cathryn liked that this role would allow her to work with a wide range of patients from all age groups – from neonates to the elderly – and to work in diverse settings, including intensive care, long term care and home care. “Being there to aid in improving the quality of life for those living with chronic respiratory conditions inspired me,” she notes.
Once enrolled in our Respiratory Care program, Cathryn found PA College to be a welcoming environment, with plenty of comfortable study spaces and the hands-on learning she sought. She shares: “I enjoy being able to learn things and try things in lab before having to do them in real life situations. I believe the hands-on learning and lab time has allowed me to be more prepared and confident in the clinical setting and has positively affected how I operate and interact with others in the health care setting. Not to mention I have been blessed with some of the best Respiratory professors who support me, motivate me, and teach me how to succeed not only in the classroom but also in the health care environment.” After earning her Associate’s degree, Cathryn plans to further her education at the Bachelor’s degree level and beyond, perhaps to become a Physician’s Assistant.
Outside of school, Cathryn enjoys babysitting a few days a week and works as a server on the weekends (when she’s not studying in a local coffee shop). She loves to spend her free time with family and friends and looks forward to finding more time for travel in the future. Cathryn shares: “I love seeing new places, meeting new people, and experiencing other cultures. One of my biggest goals is to travel to every continent. I have already visited four out of the seven. The last trip I took was in 2018, when I spent three months as a nanny in France before starting college.”
Seeking People of PA College
Do you know an exceptional current student or alumnus whose experiences and accomplishments would help tell the PA College story? Or someone who has overcome an obstacle or reached a challenging milestone during their PA College experience? Please email your suggested names (and identify them in one of these categories) to Karen Jenkins. Self-nominations are also welcome!
