Samford University’s Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPA) program prepares students to have a meaningful impact on the lives of their future patients. Through rigorous coursework, hands-on clinical experiences and mentorship from dedicated faculty, students develop the knowledge, clinical skills and confidence needed to thrive in one of healthcare’s fastest-growing professions.
While the curriculum helps distinguish the program, the students who bring passion, purpose and compassion to their work are what truly make it special. Kayln Purnell shares how her experiences in the program are shaping her path toward a career in healthcare.
Why do you want to become a physician assistant (PA)?
I was born in Richton Park, Illinois, spent my adolescent years in Phenix City, Alabama, and later lived in Durham, North Carolina, as a young adult. Growing up in different communities showed me how access to healthcare can vary and inspired me to pursue a career focused on reducing barriers to care. As a PA, I hope to work alongside physicians and other healthcare professionals to provide compassionate care while building meaningful relationships with patients and the communities I serve.
What drew you to Samford?
The integration of faith and healthcare drew me to Samford. I wanted to learn in an environment where I could grow as a future healthcare provider while allowing my faith to guide how I serve others. Samford has shown me that caring for patients is more than treating illness. It's an opportunity to reflect Christ's compassion, love and servant heart through the way we care for others.
What has made your Samford experience unique or meaningful?
Without a doubt, my cohort. We've celebrated victories together, encouraged one another through challenges and grown together throughout this journey. Their support has helped me grow in confidence, and I'm thankful to be surrounded by classmates who genuinely want to see one another succeed.
What do you enjoy most about your field of study?
I love the collaborative nature of being a PA. Physician assistants work alongside doctors, nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, social workers and many other healthcare professionals. Every member of the healthcare team brings a unique perspective, and I enjoy learning from each discipline so I can better advocate for my future patients.
What has been your favorite class or academic experience at Samford?
My favorite academic experience at Samford has been Fundamentals of Clinical Medicine. This course has been one of the most rewarding because it has helped me learn how to recognize, diagnose and treat diseases while building my clinical reasoning skills. I enjoy putting the pieces together by identifying important findings, developing a differential diagnosis and creating a plan of care. Seeing how the information we learn in the classroom connects to caring for future patients has been an exciting part of my journey.
Is there a professor, mentor or staff member who has had a significant impact on your journey?
Heather Hallman, assistant professor in the Department of Physician Assistant Studies, has had a meaningful impact on my experience. She has a special gift for encouraging students and helping them recognize strengths they may not see in themselves. She genuinely makes students feel seen, valued and supported. She has been instrumental in helping me grow both personally and professionally.
What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at Samford?
I'm most proud of how much I've grown clinically. Being able to confidently obtain a patient history, perform a physical exam, develop a differential diagnosis and present an assessment and plan during standardized patient encounters reminds me how much I've learned since beginning the program.
How have your campus and community experiences contributed to your personal or professional growth?
Working in Samford's Office of Accessibility and Accommodations and volunteering with organizations such as M-POWER Ministries, Grace Klein Community, the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Central Alabama and Children's of Alabama has deepened my appreciation for listening to others' stories and supporting people in meaningful ways. I've learned that making a difference often begins with simply showing up and connecting with others. These experiences have helped me grow in humility, empathy and my commitment to caring for others beyond the walls of a clinic.
What are your plans or goals after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to practice primary care as a PA through the National Health Service Corps, serving in a Health Professional Shortage Area.
Describe Samford in one word.
Anchored. Samford is anchored in Christ, and that foundation is evident throughout the classroom, service opportunities and student life. It's encouraging to be part of a community where faith and learning go hand in hand.
What advice would you give to prospective or current Samford students?
My advice to prospective and current Samford students is to embrace the journey and allow yourself room to grow. Physician Assistant school is challenging, and there will be moments when you may not have all the answers. I have learned the importance of being open to feedback, leaning on classmates and professors and trusting God through the process. Give yourself grace, remain willing to learn and trust that God can use each season to grow you into the person He created you to be.
Through her commitment to service, faith and patient-centered care, Purnell is preparing to make a meaningful difference in the communities she hopes to serve. She hopes to continue learning, serving others and remembering that every patient has a story that deserves to be heard.
