CHCS - Perspectives Winter/Spring 2016

66 • NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY The Orlando Physician Assistant Program has much to be proud of regarding the class of 2017, which had 100 percent stu- dent retention from the summer to fall semester. Much of this retention success can be attributed to outstanding students like Rachel Stein and Caroline Northup, who help harbor a community of success in the class. Stein was nominated by overwhelming majority to be October’s Shark of the Month, which is an award created by the Orlando Campus’ Student Government Association (SGA) to recognize outstanding students. The SGA polls a different degree program each month to select a student who embodies exemplary academic, professional, and personal qualities. The selected student is awarded the title Shark of the Month and is recognized campus-wide. Her selfless acts of kindness and giving demeanor are unparalleled and greatly appreciated by her 63 class- mates. Although she does not hold an official student governing position, Stein has taken it upon herself to build camaraderie among her peers. She has organized class outings, potluck meals, and a campus bible study group and even gives cards and gifts to the faculty members. The PA program may be rigorous, but Stein takes each day in stride and constantly looks for new ways to boost class morale. One of her classmates stated, “She makes me want to be a better person and serve others more.” Another outstanding PA student is Northup, the unsung hero in the class. She quietly excels in school and is enthusiastic about class activities, but few people know about her exemplary achievements and commitment to service. For example, she is the first recipient of the Students Recognized for Altruism Physician Assistant ORLANDO Caroline Northup, left, and Rachel Stein were recognized for exemplary achievements. BY MARGARET KLUSMAN, SGA VICE PRESIDENT, CLASS OF 2017