Ashley Shafran

Quinnipiac University Physician Assistant Program

I was born and raised in Southington, CT. I was a part of Quinnipiac University’s Entry-Level Master’s Physician Assistant program, in which I received a bachelor’s degree in health science studies and am currently working towards my master’s degree in physician assistant studies.

In high school and college, I volunteered with patients at Hospital for Special Care and Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. At Quinnipiac University, I volunteered as the Ronald McDonald House chair in my sorority, where I helped coordinate and prepare meals for the families staying at the house whose children were long-term patients of Yale New Haven Hospital. I also volunteered as an EMT at a local firehouse. I continue to volunteer at Connecticut Food share, a food distribution program that helps those in need. My work experience includes being a patient care technician (PCT) at Gaylord Specialty Healthcare and a personal care aide (PCA) for a patient with a neurodegenerative disorder.

I sought involvement in UST/AS as I am confident that I will be a better physician assistant because of it. Many obstacles or barriers can affect a patient’s health, but healthcare professionals have the ability to help their patients overcome those challenges. I strive to be a provider who uses my platform as a PA to be the voice for my patients, and being a part of UST/AS would provide me a means to practice just this.