Master in Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS)

Meet our Paws Up Students

My name is Miryam Rose Knigge. I was born in Miami, Florida. I graduated from FIU with a bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics. I then completed a dietetic internship at Tulane University. Before starting PA school, I worked as a clinical dietitian in New Orleans, LA.

Why did you choose FIU MPAS?
I watched the program grow throughout the years while completing my undergraduate degree at FIU. Many PA students came and talked to us at the pre-PA club. It always inspired me to see their journey; my dream was to be in their shoes someday!

How would you describe FIU MPAS?
You are surrounded by caring faculty that put their best foot forward for the students. PA school is one of the most challenging academic ventures anyone can undertake. A faculty that supports you will help you complete PA school and thrive in the program!

What is your favorite part of FIU and/or the FIU MPAS program?
My classmates and all of the memories we’ve created together. There are many times when we are under stress and have very little sleep, and only our classmates will understand what we are going through. I’ll cherish these friendships for the rest of my life.

What advice would you give a prospective student?
Always value your self-care! Learn your stress relief techniques BEFORE PA school. Lean on your support system. Nothing will prepare you for PA school, but with the right tools and focus, you’ll get through it as a stronger person and better provider.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
I plan to combine my passion for nutrition and medicine to help my patients in the wellness field. I also plan on exploring precision medicine and genetics.

My name is Rachael Bernardo, and I'm from Oviedo, Florida. I graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2019 with a bachelor's degree in Health Sciences. Before PA school, I gained patient care experience as a scribe in an emergency department and as a medical assistant in a dermatology clinic.

Why did you choose FIU MPAS?
Its unique offerings. The NeighborhoodHELP program and disability workshops demonstrate commitment to inclusivity and community service. Additionally, being in the vibrant city of Miami, I will be exposed to diverse cultures, languages, and a variety of cases during my clinical rotations.

What is your favorite part of FIU and/or the FIU MPAS program?
The support system I've found in my classmates and staff makes it feel like we're all in this together, rooting for each other's success. We make sure to hold each other accountable and celebrate every achievement. The professors have our best interest at heart and have been diligently preparing us for the PANCE and, more importantly, becoming the best PAs we can be.

How would you describe FIU MPAS?
It moves quickly, proving the saying, 'PA school is like drinking from a fire hydrant.' Although challenging, it has been incredibly rewarding as my knowledge expands and concepts begin to click. The program is manageable, especially as time progresses and you discover study methods that work best for you.

What advice would you give to a prospective student?
Don't be too hard on yourself! I initially felt I had waited too long after graduating college to apply to PA school. Still, I have learned that pausing is not losing. If you ever feel stuck, remember that the path to success is paved with hard work, determination, and sacrifice. You mustn't give up. Once you make it here (and I know you will), stay focused, stock up on caffeine, and allocate some time to unwind and relax.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
In a dermatology clinic, but I am keeping an open mind to other opportunities as I enter clinical rotations.