Jennifer Windstein: Shaping the Future of Physician Assistants Through Education and Inspiration

Jennifer Windstein, PA-C, Director of Clinical Education and Associate Professor at the Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine Physician Assistant faculty, has always had a passion for teaching. With a bachelor's degree in Physician Assistant (PA) education and a master's degree in Physician Assistant education, she has dedicated her career to shaping the next generation of PAs. 

"I have always enjoyed teaching, and I recognized that early on in my career," says Windstein. "After graduating from PA school with my bachelor's degree in 2005, I knew that obtaining my master's would ultimately allow me to teach." Said Windstein.

Bringing real-life examples of patient care into her lectures is one of the ways Windstein makes the information more relatable and engaging for her students. "It's fun, too!" she adds. 

One of the things that brings her the most joy is seeing her students graduate and embark on successful careers in healthcare. "The thing I enjoy most about teaching aspiring PAs is seeing them graduate and go on to do amazing things in their careers," she says. 

PA programs are known for their rigorous training, often described as "drinking from a fire hose" due to the vast amount of medical information students must learn quickly. Despite the challenges, Windstein believes that the quality of education and training prepares students to excel in their future roles. 

At Temple University, PA students have the unique opportunity to choose elective rotations during their clinical year. These rotations allow students to explore various specialties and gain valuable hands-on experience. "We have so many options for them! Abdominal organ transplant, dermatology, gender-affirming care, Respiratory ICU, endocrinology, orthopedics… and the list goes on!" says Windstein. 

The success of the program is evident in the achievements of its graduates. From the last graduating class, four students accepted positions at a local community health clinic in Primary Care. Windstein believes this not only reflects the quality of the clinical sites where students rotate but also showcases the caliber of PAs produced by the program. 

Windstein's dedication to teaching and her commitment to the education of future PAs is evident in her approach to bringing real-life examples into the classroom and her joy in witnessing her students succeed. Through rigorous training and unique opportunities, Temple University’s Lewis Katz School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program prepares students to make a significant impact in healthcare. 

Windstein states, "I think this speaks volumes to the clinical sites that students are rotating at but also shows the quality of PAs that the program here is producing!"