The reputation of WSU’s physician associate program brought Autymn Schreiner to Wichita after earning her undergraduate degree in Topeka. Her advice to future Shockers: “Lean into grit and determination throughout your time at WSU.”
Autymn is one of more than 2,400 students eligible for spring 2026 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad.
What degree will you be earning in May?
Master of physician associate
What is your hometown?
Maple Hill, Kansas
What schools did you attend before coming to Wichita State?
- Wabaunsee High School
- Washburn University
What made you choose Wichita State University?
I chose Wichita State University's physician associate program because of its long-standing history of developing highly competent and successful PAs, which gave me confidence in the quality of training I would receive. During my application process, I was especially drawn to the faculty because of their passion for teaching and genuine investment in student success. I knew I would be pushed to grow while being supported throughout a rigorous yet rewarding program. The combination of a strong reputation and a faculty who truly care about their students made Wichita State the clear choice for me.
What applied learning experiences did you participate in during your time here?
During my time at Wichita State, I have been fortunate to participate in a variety of applied learning experiences that have helped to bridge my classroom knowledge with clinical practice. Through Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), I have strengthened my patient communication and clinical reasoning skills in standardized encounters, while procedure labs provided hands-on training in essential technical skills. I also engaged in interprofessional simulations with students from various health programs at Wichita State which have enhanced my ability to collaborate within a healthcare team. Additionally, my clinical rotations across multiple specialties have given me real-world experience in patient evaluation, diagnosis and management.
What advice would you give other Wichita State students?
My advice for other Wichita State students would be to truly lean into grit and determination throughout your time at WSU. There will be moments that feel overwhelming, but growth often comes from pushing through those challenges and staying committed to your goals. Trust the process, remember why you started, and don't forget to have fun!
Fun question: You suddenly find yourself in the middle of a dance battle. What's the first move you're gonna hit 'em with?
About Wichita State University
Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 25,000 students between its main campus and the WSU Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech), including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student-centered and innovation-driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students. The National Science Foundation ranked WSU No. 1 in the nation for aerospace engineering R&D, No. 2 for industry- and defense-funded engineering R&D and No. 9 overall for engineering R&D.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
Follow Wichita State on social media:
