Complete Story
04/02/2025
Member Feature: Getting to Know Briana Neumann, PA-S
OAPA celebrates its members from across the state and in all areas of practice and career stages.
This month we are featuring Briana Neumann, PA-S, a student in the Cedarville University PA Program. We'll hear about her desire to impact the healthcare community, and her perfect chocolate chip cookie recipe!
Why did you choose to pursue a career as a PA?
I chose to pursue a career as a PA to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare system. While working as a Medical Assistant in an endocrinology clinic, I encountered numerous patients who were not only struggling to manage their chronic illnesses but were also battling obesity and depression. This experience highlighted the significant challenges patients face in achieving overall well-being. During my time at the clinic, I had the opportunity to develop a weight management program that emphasized comprehensive wellness techniques in collaboration with patients' physicians. By combining positive mindset strategies, alternative medicine approaches, and coordinated care, we witnessed remarkable improvements in patients' health. I realized that by becoming a PA, I could take on a more active role in developing personalized treatment plans, collaborating with other healthcare providers, and empowering patients to improve their overall well-being. This realization solidified my decision to advance my education and pursue a career as a PA, where I can make a lasting impact on my patients' lives.
What do you wish you had known about PA school before you started?
I wish I had known how important it is to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Moving to a new state, meeting 27 new people in my cohort, and experiencing so many new things has been a big adjustment. While it hasn’t always been easy, putting myself out there and staying open to new opportunities has made this journey more rewarding than I ever imagined.
Why are you an OAPA member?
During my undergraduate studies, I was a member of Michigan’s PA association, and the events I attended were incredibly valuable as an aspiring PA. The PAs involved in MAPA were not only kind but also eager to share insightful advice while I navigated the PA school application process. When I moved to Ohio to begin my program, I knew I had to get involved with Ohio’s PA association. The support and learning opportunities that OAPA provides are invaluable to students like me. Attending events and networking with local OAPA members made my transition to Ohio and PA school much smoother. The work OAPA is doing to advance and support our profession is truly inspiring, and being part of that process empowers future PAs like myself.
How do you like to spend your time when you aren't studying or working?
When I am not studying or in class I love to go camping in the summer. My favorite camping trip recently was in Northern Michigan. We visited the painted rocks and stayed at a very peaceful rustic campsite. I also enjoy baking! I like to think I have perfected my chocolate chip cookie recipe. I always thought I might open a bakery one day if I hadn't fallen in love with medicine.
