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Countdown to National PA Week: Let’s hear from the coaches!
Let’s hear from the coaches!
Glad to have you back, my fellow PA professionals! We’re continuing our countdown to PA Week by meeting three of our Student Success Coaches here at Scott Massey PhD, LLC, Mary Minto, MHS, PA-C, Echo Kopplin, DMSc, PA-C, and Lili Chan, MMS, PA-C.
I’ve long promoted the value of Student Success Coaching programs in PA schools to reduce attrition and increase grade averages. Those are measurable outcomes. However, Student Success has a far more gratifying, if less concrete, impact: the difference it makes in the pride and confidence of a student, when they see a way forward to graduation and beyond. They are well-prepared to face the challenges that come. That’s what a great coach does!
Mary Minto, MHS, PA-C
With a unique blend of clinical expertise and a passion for nurturing the next generation of healthcare providers, Mary has found her calling as a Student Success Coach for physician assistant students.
Mary's path to becoming a pivotal figure in PA education is as diverse as it is impressive. A graduate of the University of Connecticut and Quinnipiac University, she embodies the spirit of lifelong learning that she now instills in her students. Her seven-year tenure in PA education is built upon a solid foundation of clinical experience, spanning neurosurgery, trauma surgery, and urgent care.
"The versatility of the PA profession has been the most surprising and rewarding aspect of my career," Mary reflects. "It's not just about lateral mobility; it's about vertical growth and the opportunity to make a difference in countless ways.
As a Student Success Coach, Mary doesn't just teach—she transforms. Her approach goes beyond the traditional focus on memorization and test-passing. Instead, she empowers students to develop a deep understanding of medical concepts and their practical applications.
"It's not about cramming information," Mary explains. "It's about connecting the dots between basic science and clinical medicine. This approach helps students succeed academically and prepares them to provide exceptional patient care after graduation."
Mary's coaching philosophy is rooted in self-efficacy. She believes in equipping students with the tools to recognize their own potential and adapt to challenges. This mindset has been crucial in her journey and forms the cornerstone of her teaching methodology.
Mary's role as a coach addresses a critical need in PA education. With the intense pace of PA programs, there's often little time for faculty to focus on developing students' study strategies and coping mechanisms. This is where Mary steps in, providing the support educators want to offer, but often can't due to curriculum constraints.
"Working with coaches outside their PA program allows students to feel more confident asking questions and admitting when they don't know how to study," Mary notes. Her approach creates a safe space for learning and growth, essential for the high-achieving students typically drawn to PA programs.
For Mary, the difference between a good PA and a great PA lies in their approach to care and continuous learning.
"A great PA doesn't just strive to check boxes," she asserts. "They aim to give something valuable to each patient, student, or peer—something that can improve their lives moving forward."
This philosophy aligns perfectly with her work alongside Dr. Scott Massey, whose dedication to holistic success resonates deeply with Mary's own values.
Mary's passion for growth and adventure extends beyond her professional life. An avid beach lover and ocean enthusiast, she celebrated her 40th birthday with a thrilling swim alongside bull sharks in the Atlantic—without a cage!
"Life is about embracing challenges and continuous learning, whether in the classroom or in the ocean," Mary says with a smile.
As Mary continues to shape the future of PA education, her impact ripples far beyond individual student success. She's not just preparing students to pass exams; she's molding compassionate, knowledgeable, and adaptable healthcare providers who will shape the future of patient care.
Through her unique blend of clinical experience, educational expertise, and personal passion, Mary Minto is redefining what it means to be a mentor in the medical field. Her journey from practicing PA to educational innovator exemplifies the dynamic and impactful nature of the PA profession.
Echo Kopplin, DMSc, PA-C
Echo Kopplin is a board-certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) and Student Success Coach at Scott Massey PhD, LLC, whose journey in healthcare and education exemplifies dedication, resilience, and a passion for lifelong learning. With a Doctorate in Medical Science and a wealth of clinical experience, Echo provides both support and inspiration for aspiring healthcare professionals.
Echo's journey into healthcare was influenced by her own experiences with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, Type 1. Having endured over 200 fractures and 16 surgeries, Echo's resilience in the face of adversity has shaped her approach to patient care and student mentorship. She reflects, “I firmly believe that my experiences with OI make me more personable and empathetic to my patients and students regarding overcoming obstacles.”
Growing up in rural Nebraska, in an area with no clinicians, Echo was inspired by PA Dean Benson, who cared for her family through every stage of life. His dedication to learning about her rare condition and his driven approach to medicine significantly influenced Echo's decision to become a PA. Later, she spent many hours shadowing PA Benson, and his athletic training undergrad degree affected her decision to study athletic training as a way to set her PA school application apart. Later, at Echo’s white-coat ceremony, PA Benson made the ten-hour round trip just to be the one to bestow her coat on her.
Echo chose the PA profession for its versatility, allowing her to move laterally into different specialties. While her career has primarily focused on general medicine, she has worked in various capacities, from rural to urban settings, making a lasting impact on patient care.
Echo's commitment to her profession extends beyond clinical practice. She currently serves as the President-Elect of the South Dakota Academy of PAs and as Secretary for the Good Shepherd Clinic, a local free medical and dental clinic. These roles exemplify her dedication to advancing the PA profession and providing healthcare access to underserved communities.
As a Student Success Coach for Scott Massey PhD, LLC, Echo leverages her diverse experiences to guide PA students towards academic and professional success. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, stating, “PA Students often need coaches because what worked in undergrad doesn’t work in graduate PA programs.”
Echo's coaching philosophy is rooted in her belief that sometimes, a student needs someone to believe in their abilities. She recalls working with a student who struggled academically while also juggling multiple personal issues. They faced numerous, serious obstacles. During their coaching sessions, Echo never forgot to remind them that they had already persevered through much, and she was so proud of them. “At the end of their coaching sessions, they said through tears, ‘Thank you for continuing to believe in me.’” This experience reinforces her conviction that belief and support can be powerful motivators for success.
Echo is passionate about educating the public on the crucial role of PAs in healthcare. She emphasizes, “PAs are trained to provide autonomous medical care. They complete more graduate credit hours than nearly any other graduate degree and by accreditation standards should be conferred a doctorate.” As Echo learned herself, a good PA can make a huge positive difference, in a medically underserved area, and to a young girl dealing with a difficult condition.
Working with Scott Massey PhD, LLC aligns perfectly with Echo's mission to ensure equal access to success for all students. “Dr. Massey’s years of experience in teaching and research means he hires the best consultants and coaches, with diverse backgrounds and experiences, to help students and PA programs.” As a first-generation college student herself, Echo understands the challenges many face and is committed to providing the tools and support needed for success.
Echo Kopplin's journey from a determined patient to a compassionate healthcare provider and mentor embodies the spirit of perseverance and lifelong learning. Her unique blend of personal experience, professional expertise, and dedication to education continues to inspire and shape the future of healthcare professionals.
Lili Chan, MMS, PA-C
With a unique blend of clinical acumen and a passion for education, Lili Chan brings a wealth of experience to her role at Scott Massey PhD, LLC. Her journey from marketing professional to Physician Assistant (PA) to academic coach is a testament to her adaptability, determination, and unwavering commitment to personal growth and student success.
Lili's journey to becoming a PA was anything but conventional. After graduating from UC Irvine with a degree in sociology and political science, she spent two years in the marketing field. However, a nagging feeling that something was missing led her to reassess her career choices. It was during this period of self-reflection that a chance conversation with her aunt opened the door to the world of Physician Assistants. After spending some time shadowing a PA, Lili recognized that she had found her path.
Intrigued by the prospect of a career in healthcare, Lili took a leap of faith. She embarked on a challenging journey, tackling science prerequisites and applying to graduate schools. With unwavering support from her family and friends, Lili persevered, eventually earning her degree in PA Studies from Midwestern University.
As a practicing PA, Lili quickly distinguished herself through her thoroughness and empathy. Her experience in gastroenterology and emergency medicine honed her clinical skills and deepened her understanding of patient care. One of her most profound moments came when her meticulous approach led to the early detection of an elusive stomach cancer in a young patient, allowing for quick intervention and potentially saving his life. When she later received a thank-you card and flowers from the grateful patient, Lili fully understood the significance of going that extra mile.
This experience reinforced Lili's belief that the difference between a good PA and a great one lies in the ability to connect with patients on a human level. It's this same philosophy that she brings to her role as a Student Success Coach.
Lili's transition to coaching was inspired by Scott Massey's own journey and his commitment to helping students overcome obstacles. She saw an opportunity to be an agent of change, supporting students who might lack the resources or guidance to excel.
Her coaching philosophy is rooted in empathy and patience. Lili believes that PA students need coaches because the path ahead can often seem daunting and unclear. She strives to:
Prepare students for the challenges of both academia and their future careers
Teach resilience and adaptability
Help students discover their optimal learning strategies
Foster a supportive environment where students feel comfortable discussing their concerns
One of Lili's greatest joys as a coach is witnessing the "Aha!" moment when a student realizes their own potential. These moments of breakthrough not only validate her approach but also fuel her passion for coaching.
Lili draws inspiration from individuals who have overcome significant obstacles, and use those experiences to help others. She values the wisdom gained through adversity and seeks to learn from those who have walked difficult paths. Additionally, her children inspire her to approach problems with fresh perspectives, reminding her of the power of simplicity.
As Lili Chan continues to make her mark in the world of Student Success Coaching, she remains committed to bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application. Her unique background as a PA, combined with her passion for education, positions her as a valuable asset in shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Next time…
We’re thrilled to keep up the introductions, allowing you to meet more of our remarkable staff. Next week, we’ll talk about where you can find us at this year’s PAEA Conference, which will be held in Washington DC from October 10-15.
Then, I’ll introduce you to two more of our terrific consultants, Deb Munsell, DHSc, PA-C and our first full-time consultant, Medea Valdez, DHEd, MPAS, PA-C. Please join me then!
Countdown to National PA Week: Let’s hear from the coaches!
Let’s hear from the coaches!
Glad to have you back, my fellow PA professionals! We’re continuing our countdown to PA Week by meeting three of our Student Success Coaches here at Scott Massey PhD, LLC, Mary Minto, MHS, PA-C, Echo Kopplin, DMSc, PA-C, and Lili Chan, MMS, PA-C.
I’ve long promoted the value of Student Success Coaching programs in PA schools to reduce attrition and increase grade averages. Those are measurable outcomes. However, Student Success has a far more gratifying, if less concrete, impact: the difference it makes in the pride and confidence of a student, when they see a way forward to graduation and beyond. They are well-prepared to face the challenges that come. That’s what a great coach does!
Mary Minto, MHS, PA-C
With a unique blend of clinical expertise and a passion for nurturing the next generation of healthcare providers, Mary has found her calling as a Student Success Coach for physician assistant students.
Mary's path to becoming a pivotal figure in PA education is as diverse as it is impressive. A graduate of the University of Connecticut and Quinnipiac University, she embodies the spirit of lifelong learning that she now instills in her students. Her seven-year tenure in PA education is built upon a solid foundation of clinical experience, spanning neurosurgery, trauma surgery, and urgent care.
"The versatility of the PA profession has been the most surprising and rewarding aspect of my career," Mary reflects. "It's not just about lateral mobility; it's about vertical growth and the opportunity to make a difference in countless ways.
As a Student Success Coach, Mary doesn't just teach—she transforms. Her approach goes beyond the traditional focus on memorization and test-passing. Instead, she empowers students to develop a deep understanding of medical concepts and their practical applications.
"It's not about cramming information," Mary explains. "It's about connecting the dots between basic science and clinical medicine. This approach helps students succeed academically and prepares them to provide exceptional patient care after graduation."
Mary's coaching philosophy is rooted in self-efficacy. She believes in equipping students with the tools to recognize their own potential and adapt to challenges. This mindset has been crucial in her journey and forms the cornerstone of her teaching methodology.
Mary's role as a coach addresses a critical need in PA education. With the intense pace of PA programs, there's often little time for faculty to focus on developing students' study strategies and coping mechanisms. This is where Mary steps in, providing the support educators want to offer, but often can't due to curriculum constraints.
"Working with coaches outside their PA program allows students to feel more confident asking questions and admitting when they don't know how to study," Mary notes. Her approach creates a safe space for learning and growth, essential for the high-achieving students typically drawn to PA programs.
For Mary, the difference between a good PA and a great PA lies in their approach to care and continuous learning.
"A great PA doesn't just strive to check boxes," she asserts. "They aim to give something valuable to each patient, student, or peer—something that can improve their lives moving forward."
This philosophy aligns perfectly with her work alongside Dr. Scott Massey, whose dedication to holistic success resonates deeply with Mary's own values.
Mary's passion for growth and adventure extends beyond her professional life. An avid beach lover and ocean enthusiast, she celebrated her 40th birthday with a thrilling swim alongside bull sharks in the Atlantic—without a cage!
"Life is about embracing challenges and continuous learning, whether in the classroom or in the ocean," Mary says with a smile.
As Mary continues to shape the future of PA education, her impact ripples far beyond individual student success. She's not just preparing students to pass exams; she's molding compassionate, knowledgeable, and adaptable healthcare providers who will shape the future of patient care.
Through her unique blend of clinical experience, educational expertise, and personal passion, Mary Minto is redefining what it means to be a mentor in the medical field. Her journey from practicing PA to educational innovator exemplifies the dynamic and impactful nature of the PA profession.
Echo Kopplin, DMSc, PA-C
Echo Kopplin is a board-certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) and Student Success Coach at Scott Massey PhD, LLC, whose journey in healthcare and education exemplifies dedication, resilience, and a passion for lifelong learning. With a Doctorate in Medical Science and a wealth of clinical experience, Echo provides both support and inspiration for aspiring healthcare professionals.
Echo's journey into healthcare was influenced by her own experiences with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, Type 1. Having endured over 200 fractures and 16 surgeries, Echo's resilience in the face of adversity has shaped her approach to patient care and student mentorship. She reflects, “I firmly believe that my experiences with OI make me more personable and empathetic to my patients and students regarding overcoming obstacles.”
Growing up in rural Nebraska, in an area with no clinicians, Echo was inspired by PA Dean Benson, who cared for her family through every stage of life. His dedication to learning about her rare condition and his driven approach to medicine significantly influenced Echo's decision to become a PA. Later, she spent many hours shadowing PA Benson, and his athletic training undergrad degree affected her decision to study athletic training as a way to set her PA school application apart. Later, at Echo’s white-coat ceremony, PA Benson made the ten-hour round trip just to be the one to bestow her coat on her.
Echo chose the PA profession for its versatility, allowing her to move laterally into different specialties. While her career has primarily focused on general medicine, she has worked in various capacities, from rural to urban settings, making a lasting impact on patient care.
Echo's commitment to her profession extends beyond clinical practice. She currently serves as the President-Elect of the South Dakota Academy of PAs and as Secretary for the Good Shepherd Clinic, a local free medical and dental clinic. These roles exemplify her dedication to advancing the PA profession and providing healthcare access to underserved communities.
As a Student Success Coach for Scott Massey PhD, LLC, Echo leverages her diverse experiences to guide PA students towards academic and professional success. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, stating, “PA Students often need coaches because what worked in undergrad doesn’t work in graduate PA programs.”
Echo's coaching philosophy is rooted in her belief that sometimes, a student needs someone to believe in their abilities. She recalls working with a student who struggled academically while also juggling multiple personal issues. They faced numerous, serious obstacles. During their coaching sessions, Echo never forgot to remind them that they had already persevered through much, and she was so proud of them. “At the end of their coaching sessions, they said through tears, ‘Thank you for continuing to believe in me.’” This experience reinforces her conviction that belief and support can be powerful motivators for success.
Echo is passionate about educating the public on the crucial role of PAs in healthcare. She emphasizes, “PAs are trained to provide autonomous medical care. They complete more graduate credit hours than nearly any other graduate degree and by accreditation standards should be conferred a doctorate.” As Echo learned herself, a good PA can make a huge positive difference, in a medically underserved area, and to a young girl dealing with a difficult condition.
Working with Scott Massey PhD, LLC aligns perfectly with Echo's mission to ensure equal access to success for all students. “Dr. Massey’s years of experience in teaching and research means he hires the best consultants and coaches, with diverse backgrounds and experiences, to help students and PA programs.” As a first-generation college student herself, Echo understands the challenges many face and is committed to providing the tools and support needed for success.
Echo Kopplin's journey from a determined patient to a compassionate healthcare provider and mentor embodies the spirit of perseverance and lifelong learning. Her unique blend of personal experience, professional expertise, and dedication to education continues to inspire and shape the future of healthcare professionals.
Lili Chan, MMS, PA-C
With a unique blend of clinical acumen and a passion for education, Lili Chan brings a wealth of experience to her role at Scott Massey PhD, LLC. Her journey from marketing professional to Physician Assistant (PA) to academic coach is a testament to her adaptability, determination, and unwavering commitment to personal growth and student success.
Lili's journey to becoming a PA was anything but conventional. After graduating from UC Irvine with a degree in sociology and political science, she spent two years in the marketing field. However, a nagging feeling that something was missing led her to reassess her career choices. It was during this period of self-reflection that a chance conversation with her aunt opened the door to the world of Physician Assistants. After spending some time shadowing a PA, Lili recognized that she had found her path.
Intrigued by the prospect of a career in healthcare, Lili took a leap of faith. She embarked on a challenging journey, tackling science prerequisites and applying to graduate schools. With unwavering support from her family and friends, Lili persevered, eventually earning her degree in PA Studies from Midwestern University.
As a practicing PA, Lili quickly distinguished herself through her thoroughness and empathy. Her experience in gastroenterology and emergency medicine honed her clinical skills and deepened her understanding of patient care. One of her most profound moments came when her meticulous approach led to the early detection of an elusive stomach cancer in a young patient, allowing for quick intervention and potentially saving his life. When she later received a thank-you card and flowers from the grateful patient, Lili fully understood the significance of going that extra mile.
This experience reinforced Lili's belief that the difference between a good PA and a great one lies in the ability to connect with patients on a human level. It's this same philosophy that she brings to her role as a Student Success Coach.
Lili's transition to coaching was inspired by Scott Massey's own journey and his commitment to helping students overcome obstacles. She saw an opportunity to be an agent of change, supporting students who might lack the resources or guidance to excel.
Her coaching philosophy is rooted in empathy and patience. Lili believes that PA students need coaches because the path ahead can often seem daunting and unclear. She strives to:
Prepare students for the challenges of both academia and their future careers
Teach resilience and adaptability
Help students discover their optimal learning strategies
Foster a supportive environment where students feel comfortable discussing their concerns
One of Lili's greatest joys as a coach is witnessing the "Aha!" moment when a student realizes their own potential. These moments of breakthrough not only validate her approach but also fuel her passion for coaching.
Lili draws inspiration from individuals who have overcome significant obstacles, and use those experiences to help others. She values the wisdom gained through adversity and seeks to learn from those who have walked difficult paths. Additionally, her children inspire her to approach problems with fresh perspectives, reminding her of the power of simplicity.
As Lili Chan continues to make her mark in the world of Student Success Coaching, she remains committed to bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application. Her unique background as a PA, combined with her passion for education, positions her as a valuable asset in shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Next time…
We’re thrilled to keep up the introductions, allowing you to meet more of our remarkable staff. Next week, we’ll talk about where you can find us at this year’s PAEA Conference, which will be held in Washington DC from October 10-15.
Then, I’ll introduce you to two more of our terrific consultants, Deb Munsell, DHSc, PA-C and our first full-time consultant, Medea Valdez, DHEd, MPAS, PA-C. Please join me then!
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