Faith Dagogo Hart

I am a physician associate (PA) currently working in general practice (GP).

Upon graduation from RCSI, I landed a job in Orthopaedics in Cappagh Hospital Dublin, which I worked for a while and moved to the countryside switched to GP.

I choose to study the MSc in Physician Associate Studies at RCSI as it was the only college offering the course in Ireland and, it was my alma matter. What I enjoyed the most was the time I spent with my study colleagues, as we all had different backgrounds, both careers and nationalities. I was a Physiotherapy graduate, one of my colleagues was a nurse and the other two had degrees in science – the sense of community was awesome and we worked together to achieve our common goal.

Access to the library and being able to book any of the available study rooms were some of the best elements of studying with RCSI. Also, the willingness of the medical professors taking time out to lecture was something that really helped me to not feel lost. The staff on clinical rotations were also so pleasant.

One of the plus sides of the MSc in Physician Associate Studies programme at RCSI is flexibility, both in the role and though skill transfer.

To prospective students, I would advice ensuring you have researched the role. Speak with a qualified PA and, if possible, get a mentor. And, after all your research, be 101% sure you want to walk this path because, just like other roles, it has its ups and downs. But once you are sure of that this is your chosen path, then the world will be your oyster.

Finally, study, study, study. Offer your skills where opportunity presents, learn and also try to reward yourself along the way. It will be worth it in the end.

There are fun times too, so don’t panic.

Faith Dagogo Hart, Physician Associate Studies, Class of 2023