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Himmelfarb Headlines: Student Profile - Meet Sierra Acker, Master of Public Health and Physician Assistant student

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Student Profile - Meet Sierra Acker, Master of Public Health and Physician Assistant student

Student Profile

This feature lets us become better acquainted with the students that use the Himmelfarb Library resources daily. Meet Sierra Acker, an MPH/PA student.

What brought you to GW?
I was drawn to GW for the MPH/PA dual degree program. Public health was one of my first passions, and I felt if I had the opportunity to pursue advanced medicine, I would want public health to be embedded into that process. Having a program that excels at both degrees, opportunities to get involved around D.C, and incredible mentors that embody the practice of sustainable medicine made GW a clear #1 choice. 

Are there any memorable research or special projects you have participated in while at GW?
During my MPH year, I started working with the Community of Hope Family Health and Birth Center here in DC with my colleague Alex Blue, and will be presenting a research project using this organization as a case study at the upcoming AAPA conference. I am interested in exploring how clinical models either contribute to or dismantle barriers to addressing the critical issue of maternal health. It has been impactful to work with and learn from community-based organizations that overcome traditional clinics to challenge our approach to medicine.

What's been the most unexpected, surprising or challenging experience as a GW student?
Balancing the passions! The more I learn about the PA profession and public health, the more I want to do. It’s overwhelming at times to try to take it all in, between classroom work, testing, research, and getting involved. I have been surprised at how many domains my interests have taken me and what opportunities have come from that. Learning about myself through the stress and the determination of being in this program has been a rewarding challenge!

As you reflect on your time at GW, can you share a favorite Himmelfarb memory or an experience you found to be most useful?
I think I spent more time in Himmelfarb than I did at home this year, and one thing that always makes studying for that long feel better is the great company that came with long study sessions. No matter the topic, I was always able to find a few friends in a corner of the library to laugh with, and that just makes everything easier and more enjoyable. Additionally, using the platforms that Himmelfarb offers to find research articles or explain a certain topic has been a lifesaver. Especially having access to ePocrates, which made studying for certain clinical medicine sessions so much more simplified, and with our busy schedules, I take ease where I can. 

When you are not studying, what are your hobbies, interests, or special things you like to do?
Most evenings and weekends (that I am not in Himmelfarb) you can find me rock climbing, riding my bike, or gathering friends at Malcolm X Park! DC has so much to offer in addition to the incredible museums and monuments, and I love finding any opportunity to spend time outside exploring smaller neighborhoods and trails. 

What are your plans after GW?
I am hoping to pursue Women's Health and Family Medicine. I think GW has done a great job preparing its PA students for challenges, and I am looking forward to seeing where that mindset can take me. We start rotations in a few weeks and I’m excited to see what else peaks my interest outside of the classroom.