For Nathan Heitzenrader, a recent graduate of the 夜色视频 School of Medicine’s (UNR Med) Physician Assistant Studies program, transitioning from physical therapy to PA Studies was a natural next step.
Growing up in Sparks, Heitzenrader discovered his passion for healthcare while participating in the Sports Medicine Academy at Spanish Springs High School. Through the program, he had the opportunity to shadow at a physical therapy clinic, where he witnessed patients recovering from orthopaedic surgeries and navigating the rehabilitation process.
"I really liked being able to talk with patients and hear their stories," Heitzenrader said. "That's what originally drew me into healthcare."
He carried that interest into the 夜色视频, where he majored in kinesiology with plans to pursue orthopaedic surgery. However, after spending five years working as a PT technician, his career goals changed.
"Seeing how people struggled after surgery made me realize I wanted to focus more on caring for patients throughout their recovery," he said.
During his senior year, a PA he worked with encouraged him to shadow at an orthopaedic urgent care clinic. The experience introduced him to the collaborative role of PAs and the meaningful, face-to-face relationships they build with patients.
"I loved that you still get to practice medicine while spending more face-to-face time with patients," Heitzenrader said. "That patient interaction is what I enjoyed most."
His years working one-on-one with patients as a PT technician became one of his greatest strengths during PA school. Later, two years as a pharmacy technician expanded his understanding of medications and pharmacology, giving him a well-rounded foundation before entering the program.
"Physical therapy taught me how to listen to patients and help them through difficult situations," he said. "Then working in pharmacy gave me a better understanding of medications, which was incredibly helpful during PA school."
Although he had less experience in hospital settings before beginning the program, Heitzenrader credits UNR Med's PA Studies program with helping him build the confidence and clinical knowledge needed to succeed.
As a local Nevadan, attending UNR Med meant staying connected to his community. But it was the program’s academic excellence that ultimately made his decision easy. In 2025, the Physician Assistant Studies program earned a No. 21 ranking among 206 programs nationwide from U.S. News & World Report.
"I had heard so many great things from graduates and current students," he said. "Even though it's a newer program, they're constantly improving and making it better. Everyone I talked to said it prepared them really well for practice."
One experience during his clinical year continues to shape the type of provider he hopes to become.
While rotating through a cardiac intensive care unit, Heitzenrader witnessed a medical emergency unfold around a critically ill patient. As physicians and nurses rushed into the room, he noticed the patient's partner standing alone in the hallway, overwhelmed by what was happening.
Heitzenrader approached them, offering reassurance and explaining what was happening as the medical team worked.
"I didn't know everything that was going on medically," he said. "But I realized I could still help by being there for the patient's family."
That simple conversation evolved into a daily check-in with the patient's partner throughout the hospitalization.
"It reminded me that medicine isn't just about treating diseases," Heitzenrader said. "Sometimes the most meaningful thing you can do is sit with someone, listen and help them through a difficult moment."
The experience reinforced the importance of compassionate, patient-centered care, something he hopes to carry throughout his career.
Now a recent graduate, Heitzenrader hopes to practice in orthopaedics or neurosurgery, fields that align with his background in kinesiology and his passion for restoring mobility and function.
"I think movement is something we take for granted," he said. "Helping people get back to running with their grandkids, playing catch with their kids or simply returning to the activities they love is incredibly rewarding."
Reflecting on his time in PA school, Heitzenrader says adaptability has been one of the most valuable lessons he's learned.
"You're going to be challenged, and things aren't always going to go the way you planned," he said. "You have to be willing to take feedback, learn from mistakes and keep moving forward."
His advice for future PA students is simple: remain flexible.
"Every experience is an opportunity to learn and grow," he said. "If you stay adaptable and keep an open mind, you'll become a better provider because of it."
