Jenna Gobel

Quinnipiac University Physician Assistant Program

I grew up in Wilbraham, Massachusetts. I received my undergraduate degree in biology from The Catholic University of America.

During college, I volunteered at a local afterschool program in Northeast Washington D.C, where I taught elementary and middle school-aged girls the importance of healthy eating habits and exercise. Additionally, I volunteered at a Men’s Rehabilitation Shelter in Northwest Washington D.C. There, I helped with grounds maintenance and spent quality time with the residents. In February of 2020, I volunteered with Habitat for Humanity in Veles, Macedonia, helping to build apartment buildings for the local community. Hearing about the community’s lack of access to healthcare and their insufficient income opportunities made me even more attentive to the importance of universal access to healthcare.

I sought involvement in the Urban Service Track/AHEC Scholars (UST/AS) Program because the program offers participants the opportunity to begin the humble and selfless care of others very early in their medical careers. Alongside this opportunity for care, the UST/AS Program also allows its scholars to work with medical professionals-in-training from other fields. One of the best, most unique aspects of the UST/AS Program are these interdisciplinary connections I will make with medical professionals sharing my goals and values. Understanding the importance of the entire healthcare team and the various roles involved in each position is imperative to a positive work environment and complete, patient-centered treatment.