November 16, 2020
Allison Luntz, a graduate student in the Physician Assistant (PA) graduate program in the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, was recently awarded the Society for Physician Assistants in Pediatrics (SPAP) Student Scholarship.
“Allison is an asset to the St. John’s University PA program, and it is truly a pleasure working with her,” said Corinne I. Alois, PA-C, Assistant Professor/Industry Professional, who nominated the second-year student for the scholarship.
“She has the inner workings to be an incredible PA. Her patients will be so lucky.”
SPAP consists of PAs, PA residents, and students, as well as affiliate and associate individuals who share a common interest in the art of pediatric medicine. SPAP supports members in promoting high standards in the delivery of pediatric health care and provides the opportunity to network with other PAs and individuals interested in the well-being of children.
Allison graduated from the University of Florida in May of 2019 and in September of that year began the PA program at St. John’s University. As treasurer of her class’s executive board, she has worked to increase unity among the participants in her program by spearheading initiatives such as starting a mentorship program.
“The program matches different students in the PA-1 and PA-2 cohorts based on social and academic factors,” she explained. “It brings cohorts together and helps everyone feel supported and valued as members of the program.”
Another project Allison is passionate about involves organizing a comprehensive student guide for current and future students of the program. The guide provides detailed information about navigating the program, as well as information about serving the community.
“My aspiration in creating this guide was to minimize the gaps in knowledge about the program among entering students, while giving matriculating students the resources needed to make a smooth transition into PA school,” she said. “I am hopeful that this information serves to comfort new students and to motivate them to be productive and to get involved.”
A native of Melville, NY, Allison plans to attend a pediatric PA fellowship program. “My long-term goal is to work at a children’s hospital and to spend my life helping children,” she said.
“Allison is one of the hardest working and most caring students I have taught in my 21 years as an educator,” said Louise Lee, Ed.D., MHA, PA-C, Associate Professor/Industry Professional, and Director of the Physician Assistant program in the Department of Clinical Health Professions. “I know she will be an outstanding asset to her future patients and the practice of medicine.”