PA studies graduate receives scholarship to work in underserved area

Riverside, Calif. (Aug. 27, 2024) – Tivi Mauro earned her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from California Baptist University last week.

While she doesn’t know where she will be working yet, she knows she will work for one year in an underserved area. Earlier this summer, Mauro received $25,000 from the Advanced Practice Healthcare Scholarship Program. The program works to increase and diversify California’s healthcare workforce by providing scholarships and loan repayments to health professional students and graduates who provide patient care in underserved communities, according to the website. The recipients commit to work a year in an underserved area or qualifying facility. Mauro wants to work in family, emergency or internal medicine.

Back in the mid-2010s, she applied for medical school but then landed with the NHL and the National Lacrosse League as a strength and conditioning coach. When the pandemic hit, she decided to apply to PA school.

“I feel like I can now help more patients to lead healthier lives,” Mauro said.

Her five-year plan includes traveling care and working in orthopedics. Mauro’s father served in the Navy for almost 40 years. With a parent in the military and relatives in Europe, she has traveled to more than 25 countries. Meanwhile, she also did a clinical rotation in Big Bear. She likes rural medicine because the need is greater, and it is often close to some “epic terrain.” She enjoys skiing and snowboarding.

“I previously worked in HR at a travel nurse company and the flexibility is something everyone should try at least once,” Mauro said. “Rural medicine is a passion of mine, and learning from other travelers will sharpen my skills.”

Dr. Heather Ontiveros, chair of the Department of Physician Assistant Studies, said Mauro is a positive and enthusiastic student.

“She is persistent in her goal of growing into a great clinician,” Ontiveros said. “Our clinical team has been very impressed with Tivi’s focus and determination this past year.”

Mauro imagines she will have imposter syndrome for a while but feels confident in her skills and capability thanks to CBU and the professors.

“CBU has humbled me. However, I feel the most prepared because of the rigor,” Mauro said. “This PA program was just the foundation, and there's so much more to learn, but the staff was always delightful and went the extra mile for us. I'm grateful for the positivity of the CBU team and feel especially blessed to have been voted ‘most likely to make their patients laugh.’”