Emma Blair
“WVU is full of opportunities that allow students to go above and beyond, and the School of Medicine is no exception. I am confident that my undergraduate exercise physiology degree will prepare me for just about anything I may encounter in the medical world.”
Hometown? High school?
Wheeling Park High School in Wheeling, West Virginia.
Undergraduate degree in what subject? From where? Other degrees?
Exercise Physiology from WVU.
Why did you choose your career path? Is there an experience you’ve had that made you realize why you chose this profession?
I want to become a P.A. because I had a concerning medical issue in which the doctor was very standoffish and rude during my entire experience. He never showed any empathy or shared knowledge with my scared family, and that made me even more terrified of the situation. I knew from that moment on that I wanted to become the health professional that takes the time to explain everything with patients and treat them with respect and compassion. Doctors shouldn’t be robots not knowing how to interact with their patients. I’m striving to be the personable health professional that every patient deserves.
Why did you choose WVU?
WVU has a sense of pride like no other institution. Not only am I receiving a challenging and amazing education, but the friendly, welcoming atmosphere on campus simply can’t be beat.
What would you tell prospective students about your experience at WVU and the School of Medicine?
WVU is full of opportunities that allow students to go above and beyond, and the School of Medicine is no exception. With countless classes like Physiology, Anatomy, Kinesiology, etc. and future opportunities like the human anatomy cadaver lab and clinical internships, I am confident that my undergraduate exercise physiology degree will prepare me for just about anything I may encounter in the medical world.
Have you had any particular professors or faculty members who have had a positive effect on you while at WVU? If so, how?
Dr. Bryner, my academic advisor, has been a tremendous help with all of my academic and personal inquiries. He takes the time to have meaningful and supportive conversations, and he always makes me feel as though my matters are important to him, as well. Whether it’s questions about what classes to take or a perspective career change, I know that Dr. Bryner will always have my back and support me through my academic career here at WVU.
What are you hoping to do in your career? What other goals do you have? Are you hoping to practice in WV? If so, tell me about what you want to do.
Although I am still just an undergraduate, I hope to becoming a Pediatric Physician’s Assistant. I’m not sure yet where the wind will take me, but I know I want to put my time and efforts into helping a child in need.
Have you participated in any clubs, student organizations or other groups in the School of Medicine? If so, do you have any special experiences to share?
One of my favorite activities that I take part in is the School of Medicine Student Ambassadors Program. I get to talk with prospective students and their families about my experiences here at WVU and share the reasons on why exercise physiology is a great undergraduate major full of opportunity. I am also involved with the Pre-Medical Club here at WVU.
Tell me something unique or interesting about you that others may not know?
I’m really into the vintage styles of music and movies, and I have a collection of over 100 vinyl records! Most of my records come from thrift stores, with my best find being an original Louis Armstrong record.
