SLU PA Student Wins National Scholarship
Saint Louis University (SLU) Physician Assistant Education student Megan Favia, MS, RD, PA-S, was recently awarded the Society for Physician Assistants in Pediatrics (SPAP) 2018 Student Scholarship. To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants had to be student members of the SPAP and enrolled in an Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) program.
Favia was very thankful to SLU Physician Assistant Education professors Genevieve DelRosario, MHS, PA-C, and Christine Werner, PhD, PA-C, RD, for encouraging her to get involved with SPAP and went on to say how fortunate she felt to be chosen for the scholarship.
“To have been chosen amongst many outstanding candidates for the 2018 SPAP Student Scholarship is a blessing,” Favia said. “I am incredibly grateful to be recognized by an organization that supports students’ interests in pediatrics and provides a platform for students to connect with exceptional practitioners dedicated to improving healthcare for children.”
Favia did not always know her professional journey would lead her to a career in pediatric health care, but rather it was fate that stepped in one day and changed the course of her path.
“I like to think that pediatrics chose me. I had been working as an adult clinical dietitian when I was asked to cover the neonatal intensive care unit for a maternity leave,” Favia said. “Working with patients during the most resilient stages of life, I felt empowered knowing I could influence their growth and development. I gradually transitioned into a pediatric role, wanting to learn everything possible to assist the most optimal outcomes for these little patients. It motivated me to return to PA school to expand my knowledge further.”
After completing the Physician Assistant program at SLU, Favia hopes to find a career in pediatrics where she can also use her background in nutrition.
The Society for Physician Assistants in Pediatrics (SPAP) is a non-profit specialty organization of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA). The Society consists of PAs, PA residents and students, as well as affiliate and associate individuals who share a common interest in the art of pediatric medicine. SPAP supports members in promoting high standards in the delivery of pediatric health care and provides the opportunity to network with other PAs and individuals interested in the well-being of children.
Saint Louis University is a Catholic, Jesuit institution that values academic excellence, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service. Founded in 1818, the University fosters the intellectual and character development of nearly 13,000 students on two campuses in St. Louis and Madrid, Spain. Building on a legacy of 200 years, Saint Louis University continues to move forward with an unwavering commitment to a higher purpose, a greater good.