By: Yared Cano-Sanchez
Adam Serfoss grew up in rural Nevada, where he witnessed firsthand the disparities in health care — a reality that sparked his desire to give back to his community. It was only after a decade of working in an ambulance with the Regional Emergency Medical Services Authority (REMSA), in the emergency department at both Renown and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and serving in the Marine Corps that he realized he wanted to take on a greater role in diagnosing, managing and providing for patients.
The physician assistant (PA) profession offered the perfect blend of clinical autonomy, teamwork and service. Now an upcoming graduate for the ҹɫÊÓƵ School of Medicine (UNR Med) Physician Assistant Studies program and president of the Class of 2025, Serfoss has made a lasting impact as both a student and advocate for improving health care practices.
As part of their training in the UNR Med PA program, Adam Serfoss and his classmates practice clinical skills.Beyond his academic and leadership achievements, Serfoss is also a husband and father of two - with his youngest being born in his second year of PA school, which added a new layer of challenge to an already demanding journey.
“PA school demands a huge time commitment, and life doesn’t stop for your studies,” Serfoss said. “I juggled newborn nights, family obligations, car troubles and bereavements, alongside multiple weekly exams, assignments and community work.”
Despite the immense pressure, he persevered thanks to a combination of determination, resilience and the unwavering support around him.
“I found balance by adhering to a strict weekly schedule that carved out protected family time and personal downtime,” he said. Serfoss leaned heavily on his support system which included his spouse, classmates and UNR Med faculty, calling them a lifeline throughout his journey.
One of Serfoss’ most memorable experiences wasn't in a hospital or classroom, but rather his time at the Nevada State Capitol. “We met with lawmakers, presented data, and I was given the opportunity to speak in front of the state senate in support of a bill to expand PA practice authority,” he recalled. “That day, I experienced the power of advocacy firsthand and how our collective voices can shape policy.”
In March, UNR Med PA students engaged with lawmakers at the 2025 Nevada State Legislature.Looking ahead, Serfoss plans to stay in Nevada, providing health care in both urban and rural areas, with a focus on internal and family medicine. “Immediately after graduation, I’ll begin my Doctor of Medical Science at Butler University,” he said. “Ultimately, I aim to blend patient care with education, continuing to train future PAs to meet Nevada’s evolving health care needs long after I stop practicing.”
At the heart of it all, Serfoss remains committed to giving back.
“I plan to join the workforce in Nevada as a dedicated clinician who helps alleviate barriers to care, especially in our underserved rural communities,” he said. “Beyond clinical practice, I will continue volunteering and I’m committed to mentoring the next generation of PAs by offering shadowing opportunities, guest lecturing and sharing insights on applying to school.”
For aspiring PA’s, Serfoss offers sincere advice: “Embrace every step of this journey, both the triumphs and the trials,” he says, encouraging students to stay present through both challenges and successes. His message is clear: growth doesn’t just happen in the highlights — it’s forged in the hard moments too."
From rural Nevada beginnings to a future built on service, leadership and empathy, Serfoss exemplifies what it means to be a PA - and the impact one person can make in Nevada's health care landscape.
