^{An Interview}
I had the pleasure of chatting with Ty, our AAMPR Social Media Director, who’s originally from Las Piedras, Puerto Rico. After spending part of his high school years in Ceiba, Ty moved to Rochester, NY to study biology. It was there that he discovered an entire world of healthcare beyond the traditional MD path — something many of us growing up in Puerto Rico never knew existed.

Through shadowing and exploration, he found the PA profession and never looked back. Today, Ty is a practicing PA in Washington, D.C., soon moving to Atlanta to dive into dermatology. And while his path took him to the mainland, his mission remains rooted in Puerto Rico: to raise awareness and educate others about the PA profession — especially those who, like him, once had no idea it existed.

As he puts it, this is his grain of salt — his way of giving back and helping others imagine more possibilities in medicine. Here's what he shared with us:

1. To start off, can you tell us what specifically inspired you to become a physician associate rather than pursue another path in medicine?
I was drawn to the PA profession because of its flexibility, patient-centered teamwork approach, and ability to work in various specialties without committing to a single field for life that also allowed me to enter clinical practice sooner while still providing high-quality care.

2. You recently started a new job as a PA—what has that transition been like, and what have been the biggest surprises or lessons so far?
It’s been exciting yet challenging. The biggest lesson has been realizing that real-world practice is very different from training; mentorship, adaptability, and continuous learning are key. Understanding healthcare systems and patient advocacy has also been eye-opening.

3. You’ve been leading AAMPR’s social media campaign—how has that experience been, and what impact do you hope to make through that platform?
Managing AAMPR’s social media has been a rewarding way to connect with current and aspiring PAs, educate the public about our role, and advocate for the profession in Puerto Rico. Social media allows us to highlight legislative efforts, professional development opportunities, and community outreach. My goal is to increase awareness of the PA profession on the island, encourage more students to consider this path, and foster a strong sense of community among Puerto Rican PAs.

4. What do you think are the most important topics or issues that Puerto Rican PAs and those supporting the profession on the island should be talking about right now, whether they’re in the U.S. or Puerto Rico?
Expanding PA practice laws, increasing local PA education programs, and addressing healthcare disparities are critical. Greater recognition of PAs in Puerto Rico can help improve access to care.

5. Any advice you’d give to new graduates, Puerto Rican PAs, or supporters of the profession who want to get involved with organizations like AAMPR and/or follow in your footsteps?
Get involved early! Network, seek mentorship, and join advocacy efforts. Use your voice through social media, professional groups, or community outreach to advance the profession.

Take Away:

Ty’s story reflects both the challenges and the potential of the PA profession in Puerto Rico. While barriers remain, AAMPR continues to advocate for the changes needed to help PAs thrive on the island.