From Cal Poly to A.T. Still University: Gwendolyn Miller’s path to becoming a Central Coast physician assistant
Posted: August 20, 2026
Gwendolyn Miller is a student in A.T. Still University’s College for Healthy Communities’ Central Coast Physician Assistant program, set to graduate in 2027. A Pleasant Hill, California native, she earned her bachelor of science in nutrition science from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 2025. Before beginning the program, Miller worked in healthcare on the Central Coast, and she now serves as a student ambassador, building connections with prospective students throughout the region, including at her alma mater, Cal Poly.
Why did you choose ATSU-CHC’s Central Coast Physician Assistant program (CCPA)?
“I chose ATSU because it felt like the perfect fit for both my personal values and professional goals. After working in healthcare on the Central Coast, I knew I wanted to stay in the region and eventually serve the community as a primary care PA. As a nutrition science major, I also appreciated the program’s osteopathic philosophy and emphasis on treating the whole person. I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to work alongside several ATSU-CHC CCPA graduates, and current students gave me an authentic perspective on the program. Their mentorship solidified my decision to become part of the ATSU family.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“One of my favorite things about being an ATSU student is the incredible sense of community. PA school is challenging, but having such a supportive group of classmates has made the experience so much fun. My best friends, Gianna Novelli, Claire Dicke, and Kayla Montoya. Gianna, Claire, and I all attended Cal Poly and worked together at a family medicine clinic in San Luis Obispo, so we were beyond excited to continue our journey together at ATSU. Kayla joined us from out of state, and we loved welcoming her to the Central Coast and making her feel at home. Some of my favorite memories have been studying together at the beach, taking weekend trips to Big Sur, paddle boarding in Morro Bay, hiking the trails in Pismo Beach, and celebrating each other’s successes every step of the way. The friendships I’ve made at ATSU are something I’ll cherish long after graduation, and they’ve shown me that while PA school is rigorous, it can also be full of adventure, laughter, lifelong friendships and future bridesmaids.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU helping prepare you for your career?
“My dream is to become a primary care PA on the Central Coast and give back to the community that has shaped me both personally and professionally. Through my experiences working in local clinics, I’ve seen how meaningful it is to build lasting relationships with patients and be someone they can trust throughout every stage of life. I hope to provide compassionate, whole person healthcare while helping improve access to primary care in our region. ATSU has reinforced that passion through its mission-driven curriculum, incredible faculty, and strong connections within the Central Coast healthcare community. Every day, I feel like I’m becoming the kind of provider I always hoped to be.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I became a student ambassador to build stronger connections with my classmates, support and encourage pre-PA students throughout the application process, and help prospective students see that PA school is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. I wanted to continue building relationships with undergraduate students across the Central Coast and hope to inspire more future healthcare providers to stay and serve our local communities, ultimately helping improve access to care in the region.
“One of my favorite parts of being a student ambassador has been connecting with prospective students. I’ve had the opportunity to represent ATSU at the Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Graduate School Fair and speak with members of the Cal Poly Pre-PA Club (my alma mater), as well as welcome the Cal Poly Pre-PA Club during their visit to our campus.
“As a pre-PA student, I remember how overwhelming the application process and choosing a program felt. Because of that, I enjoy having honest conversations with prospective students, sharing my own experiences, and reassuring them. I love giving them an authentic look at life at ATSU and as a PA student, answering their questions, and hopefully making the journey feel a little less intimidating. One thing I especially want future students to know is that PA school can be incredibly fun. Although it is academically challenging, I’ve been able to continue surfing, hiking, traveling, spending time with friends and family, and doing the things I love outside of school. Finding that balance has made my experience even more rewarding, and I hope it reassures prospective students that it’s possible to work hard while still enjoying life. It’s incredibly rewarding to help future students feel excited and confident about pursuing their dream of becoming a PA.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of ATSU, I love spending time outdoors and staying active. I enjoy surfing for fun and competitively and also love diving, hiking, camping, and exploring California’s beautiful coastline. Traveling is another passion of mine. I’ve had the opportunity to visit 17 countries (and counting!), and I love experiencing different cultures, foods, and perspectives. I also enjoy being involved in my community as an active member of the Central Coast NP/PA Club, where I have the opportunity to connect with healthcare professionals and continue learning outside the classroom.”
