Mission of service to underserved drew student to ATSU-ASHS Physician Assistant program
Posted: March 13, 2026
Introducing Casey Leigh Como, PA, ’27, a member of the A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies class of 2027. Originally from Prescott, Arizona, Como brings a unique perspective to her studies, having earned her bachelor of science in public health and emergency health services from George Washington University in 2022.
As the first in her family to enter the healthcare field, Como is passionate about demystifying the path for others. This drive led her to become a student ambassador, where she provides the same judgment-free guidance that helped her feel at home during her own interview process. Whether she is advocating for rural healthcare access, enjoying a post-exam party with her ATSU family, or recharging in the great outdoors with her guitar, Como embodies the program’s mission of service and community.
Why did you choose the PA program at ATSU-ASHS?
“I chose ATSU-ASHS because of its mission. I’m from a rural community myself, so the program’s emphasis on providing care to the underserved really spoke to my heart. From the first moment I stepped on campus, everyone seemed like one big family and treated me with such kindness, and it just felt like home.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“I really enjoy the sense of community at ATSU! The faculty is so unbelievably amazing and they truly care about each and every one of us, and make the time to form personal relationships with the students. I have never once felt alone or unsupported. The faculty really goes out of their way to make sure that we not only do well in school, but we do well in life. From goody baskets to trick-or-treating to post-exam parties, the faculty makes the PA school experience feel like a supportive community and I love being a part of it!”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASHS helping prepare you for your career?
“In the future, I’d really like to give back to rural communities like the one I came from. I am very passionate about everyone having access to good medical care and ATSU-ASHS believes in that same philosophy. They have already given us so much information and opportunities to address gaps in the healthcare system and it’s something I will carry with me into my future career.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I’m the first person in my family to go into healthcare. It can be really confusing and overwhelming to navigate that system alone, and I definitely felt really lost and a bit silly at times for not knowing the things other people seemed to. When I was touring, the ambassadors were people I could ask those questions to without fear or judgement, and it meant a lot to me. I wanted to make sure I could be that person for someone else! I really enjoy being able to answer people’s questions and ease the worry surrounding PA school. It’s a great feeling to be able to empower others to have confidence going into their interviews and begin their program!”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“In my free time, I really enjoy things like drawing, reading, playing my guitar, and spending time with my friends and family! I’m also pretty outdoorsy and love things like camping and hiking.”
