Four first-year Master of Medical Science in Anesthesia Science (Anesthesiologist Assistant) students showcased their skills at the 6th annual Florida Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants (FAAA) conference on February 8th. West Palm Beach students Gabe Heckerman, Abigail Dieter, Chris Vozzella, and Dillon Murchison were nominated by the student body to represent at the conference who then went on to win at the FAAA Student Jeopardy Competition. Professor John Rippy was in charge of leading the team of students to the first-ever victory for South.
The Florida Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants conference is designed for certified anesthesiologist assistants and students to enhance their expertise and improve patient care through various sessions, along with networking and attending workshops. The annual jeopardy competition challenges students on their knowledge of anesthesia, history of the AA profession, physiology, and pharmacology.
The team from South faced some impressive competition from the other teams as they were comprised of students much further along in their education and part of other AA programs in the state while they were a team of first-year students. Nevertheless, South’s team kept calm under pressure and pooled their knowledge of medical and anesthesia related concepts together to secure the win.
“This achievement is a testament to our students’ potential and bright future in anesthesia,” said Program Director, Leon Beaulieu.
With such a showcase of skill, the bar is set for current and future students to collaborate with each other and utilize their knowledge. It also proves that first-year students shouldn’t be underestimated and can be successful in their endeavors.
Graduates are required to pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license in order to work in the field. (Exam names vary by program) Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for additional information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.
Clinical/Practicum/Externship Programs: Clinical/medical programs have a required ground clinical, practicum or externship requirement. We cannot guarantee flexibility in these components of the program.
