Brook Bolton

Master of Applied Gerontology

Program Entry Date: September 2022

I have completed my undergraduate degree in Medical Sciences and Master of Applied Gerontology (MAG) at Brock University. Before applying to the MAG program, I knew I wanted to pursue a career with older adults as a Physician Assistant (PA), but I felt I lacked hands-on experience. The MAG program seemed like a perfect fit, as the offered practicum experience could allow me to interact with patients while advocating for the health and well-being of older adults.

I was fortunate to have completed my practicum with the Niagara North Family Health Team (NN FHT), where I promoted a social prescribing program to various healthcare professionals and took part in analyzing primary care patient health equity surveys. This opportunity was invaluable, as I learned how to improve patient care for older adults while developing communication and collaboration skills that I could leverage in my PA interviews. After completing the MAG program, it was also incredibly rewarding as I was offered a Medical Assistant position with the NN FHT. This role exposed me to the fundamentals of family medicine and how PAs are integrated into primary care practice.

I am happy to share that I will be attending the Physician Assistant Education Program at McMaster, which is a dream made possible through the experiences gained in the MAG program. I am extremely grateful for this program, as it has been a crucial step towards achieving my goals.

I highly recommend the MAG program to anyone interested in the health and well-being of older adults, as the program allows you to tailor your courses and practicum to align with your unique goals and aspirations.