The second cohort in the history of the Yale School of Medicine Physician Assistant (PA) Online Program received their diplomas in June 2021.
The 58 members of the Class of 2021, who come from 25 states, began their program in January 2019. They started their clinical rotations one year later, just months before the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically altered the world, including the practice of medicine.
PA Online Program Director James Van Rhee, MS, PA-C, points to the fact that the Class of 2021 completed a majority of the program during a pandemic, adding “I am very proud of them, overcoming adversity related to the pandemic and completing the program.”
While the students have not had a graduation ceremony, they display their excitement, with family and friends, in this video.
The PA Online Class of 2020 similarly celebrated their own graduation in a video, which showcases their families who supported them throughout the program.