Deborah Mobombo
"I met the most amazing friends and mentors at SHPEP who supported me through my journey to PA school. SHPEP also gave me the reassurance I needed that PA was the right profession for me."
Ms. Mobombo attended SHPEP at UAB in 2018. She graduated in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in Biology and minor in Human Development and Family Studies. Ms. Mobombo became EMT certified and worked as a medical assistant in urgent care, then in urology. She is entering a PA program this fall (2022) and is expected to finish December 2024.
Deborah Mobombo
What path did you take when you first started college?
Biology, pre-PA track
What led to your interest in a health profession?
My love for human biology, solving problems, and helping others.
What makes your story unique?
I had the privilege of having hands-on patient care experience in the rural areas of Cape Town, South Africa. It broadened my knowledge in global health, and I was able to witness how healthcare is provided in South Africa by encountering their common illnesses and conditions. I also got to participate in women’s rights activism during my time there which peaked my interest in women’s health.
How did SHPEP influence you?
I met the most amazing friends and mentors at SHPEP who supported me through my journey to PA school. SHPEP also gave me the reassurance I needed that PA was the right profession for me.
What has been your favorite part of the process? The most difficult?
My favorite part was sharing the news that I got accepted to my first PA program. The most difficult part was writing my personal statement; mainly keeping it under the character limit.
Did you have experiences or mentors that prepared you for a career as health professional?
PA student mentor from SHPEP!! PAs I’ve shadowed and worked with. Working as an MA in fast paced environments.
What is the best career advice you have received?
Take some time off to relax and travel if you can before heading off to professional school.
What advice do you have for students pursuing a health professional career.
Network network network!! Build a support system of people in your field. You never know who might help you along your career path.