Student Spotlight: Julia Ciura, Physician Assistant Student

Meet Julia Ciura, Physician Assistant Student

Inspired by her family's experiences navigating the healthcare system, Julia is pursuing a career focused on patient advocacy and accessible healthcare. A student in Midwestern University's Physician Assistant Program on the Downers Grove Campus, Julia hopes to work in family medicine or women's health, helping patients receive the care and support they need.

 Quick Facts about Julia

What inspired Julia to pursue a career as a physician assistant (PA)?

My immigrant parents’ experiences navigating the healthcare system without insurance first inspired me to pursue a career in healthcare. Growing up, I saw firsthand how financial barriers, linguistic gaps, and limited access to care can prevent people from receiving the care they need, and it motivated me to become a provider who helps make healthcare more accessible and understandable. 

My experience working as a patient care technician further strengthened that passion and showed me how meaningful it is to advocate for patients, especially those who may not always have the resources or ability to advocate for themselves. I chose the PA profession because it emphasizes patient-centered, collaborative care and offers the opportunity to serve in medically underserved communities while maintaining the flexibility to explore different areas of medicine throughout my career. I love that becoming a PA allows me to continue learning, grow across specialties, and, ultimately, meet patients wherever they are in their healthcare journey.

Why did Julia choose Midwestern University's PA Program?

I chose Midwestern University because of its reputation for holding students to a high standard and preparing them to become competent, confident healthcare providers. I wanted a program that would challenge me academically while also emphasizing clinical reasoning, hands-on skills, professionalism, and compassionate patient care. 

I knew that Midwestern’s rigorous curriculum and expectations would push me outside of my comfort zone and prepare me for the realities of practicing medicine. Most importantly, I wanted to graduate knowing that I had been thoroughly prepared to enter the workforce and provide safe, high-quality care to my patients.

How has faculty mentorship influenced Julia's experience as a PA student?

My advisor, Erica Menocci, M.M.S., PA-C, Assistant Professor, has made a tremendous impact on me. In my first quarter, I truly struggled with imposter syndrome and adjusting to the fast pace of the curriculum, and she was someone I could turn to for both guidance and reassurance. She reminded me that struggling does not mean I do not belong and encouraged me to trust myself and recognize how much I was capable of. 

Her support helped me gain confidence in myself and my abilities as a PA student. I am incredibly grateful to have an advisor who has supported me not only academically, but also personally throughout this transition and throughout my education.

What advice does Julia have for prospective PA students considering Midwestern University?

I would tell anyone considering the PA profession or Midwestern University to be prepared to challenge themselves and embrace being uncomfortable. PA school is demanding, and there will be moments when you question yourself, but I have learned that those moments are often where the most growth happens.

Midwestern truly immerses you in your education and pushes you to develop not only the knowledge and clinical skills needed to become a PA, but also the confidence and professionalism needed to care for patients. If you are willing to work hard, stay open to feedback, and embrace the challenges along the way, you will come out of the program stronger and better prepared to enter the profession.