Trine allowed Elijah Schilthuis to excel

Trine University has given Elijah Schilthuis the opportunity to excel.

Elijah will finish his time at Trine with an MBA in addition to his bachelor’s degree in biology and will go on to attend his top choice for physician assistant school.

He also has been able to win an MIAA conference championship as part of the Thunder tennis team.

PA program and tennis

Elijah was searching for direct entry physician assistant programs in the Midwest when he heard about Trine.

“I saw Trine was located close to my hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and that Trine had a strong tennis program, making me eager to apply,” he said.

In addition to tennis and the opportunity to continue to physician assistant school, Elijah was drawn to Trine by the opportunity to earn his MBA along with his undergraduate degree.

He said Angela Bojrab, Ph.D., professor and director of pre-health professions, provided valuable guidance as he prepared for physician assistant school.

“Dr. Bojrab has been very willing to help me when it comes to apply to physician assistant schools and preparing me to make a competitive application,” he said. “I love that she also adds humor in her classes and likes to joke around, making it fun to talk to her.”

His classes at Trine have allowed him to excel while working as a psychiatric technician at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services in Grand Rapids.

In addition to winning the conference championship, Elijah said his favorite memories at Trine include hanging out with friends and being a part of multiple organizations.

He has gained leadership experience by serving as the senator for the Rinker-Ross School of Health Sciences and on the executive board of Pre-Physician Assistant Club at Trine, Trine Pickleball Club and Entrepreneurs Committee.

“Trine University provided me with the resources to make a strong physician assistant application,” he said. “I will be attending my top choice physician assistant school in the fall when I graduate.”