IPAS HEALTHCARE IN THE HEARTLAND
Student Symposium
IOWA CITY, IOWA
2025 IPAS Healthcare in the Heartland
Student Symposium
Date: Monday, October 20th, 2025
Time: 11:50 A.M. - 5:15 P.M.
Students are able to come & go as needed. Evening Reception will be from 5:15 - 6:30 P.M. at Lucy's - the connected Highlander Hotel bar & restaurant.
Location: The Highlander Hotel - 2525 Highlander Pl, Iowa City, IA 52245
Cost: One Day - $25, Two Day - $50
Students who present a poster earn FREE conference registration.
Why Attend?
Exclusive Learning Sessions
Tailored to your education needs, featuring leading experts in the PA field.
View Session Schedule Below
Research Poster Opportunity
Present your research during the poster symposium to fellow students and PA professionals for the opportunity to win an award!
Challenge Bowl Opportunity
Test your knowledge and compete against other Iowa PA programs for prizes in a fun, interactive format!
Networking Reception
Connect with your peers and professionals during our early evening social event, following the conclusion of the student symposium on Monday night.
Student Symposium Schedule
Monday, October 29th, 2024
List of Services
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11:50 A.M. - 12:55 P.M. | Student Poster SymposiumItem Link
What It Is: A dedicated session where PA students display their research and innovative projects related to healthcare. This is a prime opportunity to present your work to a broad audience, including Iowa PAs and other healthcare professionals.
Interactive Experience: During the Poster Symposium, conference attendees will walk around the display area, viewing the posters and engaging directly with you. This is your chance to discuss your research, answer questions, and receive valuable feedback from experienced professionals.
Networking Opportunity: Not only will you be showcasing your work, but you’ll also be building connections with attendees who share your interests. This interactive environment allows you to highlight your expertise and make meaningful connections that could benefit your future career.
When you register, you can indicate your interest in presenting a poster during the symposium.
- Healthcare-Related Topics Only: All poster submissions must be related to healthcare.
- Repurpose Accepted: Posters can be re-purposed from previous conferences or presentations.
- Size and Format: The poster must be easy to transport and can fit on most easels.
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12:55 - 1:00 P.M. | Transition Time Write a description for this list item and include information that will interest site visitors. For example, you may want to describe a team member's experience, what makes a product special, or a unique service that you offer.
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1:00 - 1:05 P.M. | WelcomeItem Link
Kick off the Fall CME Event with a special Opening Welcome designed exclusively for PA students! This session sets the stage for an exciting day of learning, networking, and professional growth.
- Introduction to the Event: We'll provide an overview of the day’s activities, including the educational sessions, Poster Symposium, Challenge/Quiz Bowl, and networking opportunities.
- Meet the Organizers: Get to know the professionals behind the event and learn how you can make the most out of your experience.
- Setting the Tone: Discover the key themes and objectives of the symposium, and how they align with your journey as a future PA.
- Motivation and Inspiration: Hear from experienced PAs and guest speakers who will share their insights and advice for navigating your education and career path.
Join us as we kick off the day with enthusiasm and purpose, preparing you for a day full of valuable experiences and opportunities!
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1:05 - 2:05 P.M. | Challenge BowlItem Link
Are you ready to test your PA knowledge in a fun and competitive environment? The Challenge/Quiz Bowl is your chance to showcase what you’ve learned, collaborate with your peers, and compete for top honors!
- Team Composition: 3-5 students per team, all from the same PA program.
- Registration: Register online and your PA program will group students into teams.
Why Participate?
- Showcase Your Knowledge: Demonstrate your expertise in a competitive setting.
- Team Collaboration: Work closely with your peers to strategize and succeed.
- Fun and Engaging: Enjoy a lively and interactive competition that challenges your skills.
- Networking: Connect with fellow students, faculty, and professionals who share your passion for healthcare.
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2:05 - 2:10 P.M. | Transition Time Write a description for this list item and include information that will interest site visitors. For example, you may want to describe a team member's experience, what makes a product special, or a unique service that you offer.
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2:10 - 2:50 P.M. | Debt Dilemma: Navigating Loan Forgiveness and Mastering Financial FreedomItem Link
Session Speaker: Greg Reiter
Course Description:
Navigating the financial aspects of your PA career can be just as challenging as mastering clinical skills. This session is designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to effectively manage your student loan debt and make informed decisions about your financial future.
Whether you’re just starting to think about your financial future or looking for ways to manage your existing debt, this session will provide valuable insights and actionable advice to help you succeed.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding Loan Debt: Gain a clear understanding of the types of student loans, interest rates, and repayment options available to you as a PA student.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs: Learn about federal and state loan forgiveness programs specifically for healthcare professionals, including eligibility criteria and application processes.
- Financial Planning: Explore practical strategies for budgeting, saving, and investing as you transition from student life to professional practice.
- Long-Term Financial Management: Discover how to set financial goals, plan for retirement, and build a strong financial foundation for your future.
Who Should Attend: PA students and recent graduates looking to manage their finances effectively and explore loan forgiveness options.
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2:50 - 2:55 P.M. | Transition TimeItem Link
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2:55 - 3:35 P.M. | Beyond the Diploma: Exploring PA Residency, Fellowships, and Doctoral PathsItem Link
Panel Speakers: David Asprey, Jeremy Nelson, Leslie Veit, and Nathaniel Shekem
Course Description
As you approach the end of your PA program, it's time to consider the next steps in your professional journey. This session will explore the various pathways available to PAs after graduation, including residency and fellowship programs, as well as doctoral training options.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding PA Residency and Fellowship Programs: Learn about specialized training opportunities that can enhance your skills and expertise in specific medical fields. We’ll cover the benefits, application processes, and what to expect during these programs.
- Doctoral Training Options: Discover how pursuing a doctoral degree, such as a Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) or Doctor of Health Science (DHSc), can further your career, expand your scope of practice, and open doors to leadership and academic roles.
- Making Informed Decisions: Get guidance on evaluating whether additional training is the right choice for you, based on your career goals, interests, and the demands of the healthcare industry.
- Navigating the Transition: Gain practical advice on how to transition from student to professional, including tips on securing positions, managing workload, and continuing education.
This session is designed to help you make informed decisions about your post-graduation options, ensuring you’re equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to advance your career.
Who Should Attend: PA students nearing graduation and recent graduates considering further specialization or advanced training.
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3:35 - 3:40 P.M. | Transition Time Write a description for this list item and include information that will interest site visitors. For example, you may want to describe a team member's experience, what makes a product special, or a unique service that you offer.
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3:40 - 4:20 P.M. | The PA Playbook: Winning at Licensing, Salary Negotiations, and Contract ManagementItem Link
Session Speaker: Carol Gorney
Course Description
Stepping into your PA career involves more than just clinical skills—it also requires navigating the complex processes of licensing, credentialing, and understanding the ongoing requirements for continuing medical education (CME). This session will provide essential insights into these critical areas, along with guidance on salary negotiations and avoiding common contract missteps.
Key Takeaways:
- Licensing and Credentialing: Understand the step-by-step processes for obtaining your PA license and credentials, including the required documentation, timelines, and state-specific regulations.
- Continuing Medical Education (CME): Learn about the importance of CME, how to fulfill your requirements, and strategies for staying up-to-date with the latest medical knowledge and skills throughout your career.
- Salary Negotiations: Gain practical tips on negotiating your salary and benefits package, including how to research industry standards, present your case confidently, and recognize what factors are negotiable.
- Contract Pitfalls: Identify common pitfalls in employment contracts and learn how to avoid them. We’ll discuss key contract terms to watch out for, such as non-compete clauses, job expectations, and termination policies.
This session is designed to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to handle the administrative and legal aspects of your PA career effectively, ensuring you start off on the right foot.
Who Should Attend: PA students and recent graduates preparing to enter the workforce, as well as early-career PAs looking to refine their understanding of licensing, credentialing, and contract negotiations.
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4:20 - 4:25 P.M. | Transition TimeItem Link
Students rejoin the large group for featured session on PA Profession advocacy.
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4:25 P.M. - 5:10 P.M. | Lessons Learned from International Advocacy for the PA ProfessionItem Link
Speaker: David Kuhn
Course Objectives:
- Review current advocacy efforts in Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, The Netherlands, Australia and New Zealand.
- Highlight current political and professional controversies in those countries
- Identify international employment opportunities
- Describe pitfalls and other considerations of working abroad
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5:10 - 5:15 P.M. | Closing Write a description for this list item and include information that will interest site visitors. For example, you may want to describe a team member's experience, what makes a product special, or a unique service that you offer.
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5:15 - 6:30 P.M. | PA-scription for Fun - After-Hours Reception & AwardsItem Link
Head to Backpocket Brewing (in the Taproom) to network and have a cocktial or mocktail with friends and colleagues.
Come and go as you please!