Fedor Barilov

“I chose Carthage because it combined factors that really suited my needs. The campus is lovely, and its location is perfect — just right for everything I need without feeling overwhelmed. Being able to walk everywhere on campus easily adds to the convenience, and the facilities are top-notch, which makes studying and living here a great experience overall. The small class sizes are ideal for developing a personal connection with professors and staying focused. Plus, the allied health science major has a fantastic advising program that supports my academic journey well.”

“My relationship with Professor Laurie Jensen has had a huge impact on my journey to becoming a physician assistant. She is an incredible mentor, always offering valuable guidance and making sure I stay on track with everything I need to do. From course selection to gaining clinical experience, she has given me essential tips that have helped me feel confident in my path. Beyond academics, she also provides support and encouragement, ensuring I take advantage of opportunities that will strengthen my application and future career. Her guidance has not only helped me stay on top of things, but also reassured me that I’m making the right steps toward my goals.”

“My favorite class at Carthage so far has been Introduction to Healthcare Professions. This class and the insightful PED talks from healthcare professionals helped me explore different career paths and solidified my decision to become a physician assistant. Hearing firsthand experiences and advice from professionals in the field gave me a clearer understanding of what to expect and what steps to take moving forward. It was an incredibly valuable experience that provided clarity and motivation for my future career.”

“The toughest classes I’ve taken at Carthage so far have been Molecules, Cells, and Organisms as well as Organisms, Populations, and Systems. Professor Temple Burling is an amazing professor who truly cares about his students’ understanding of the material, but his tests and exams are some of the hardest I’ve ever taken. You really have to develop strong study habits, think critically, and apply what you’ve learned in a way that goes beyond the textbook. While challenging, these courses pushed me to improve my problem-solving skills and reinforced my passion for the allied health sciences field. Looking back, the difficulty of these classes made me a stronger student and better prepared for the rigorous path ahead in my journey to becoming a physician assistant.”

“I’ve been an active member of Pre-Health Club since my freshman year, and being part of this club has connected me with students who share similar goals in the healthcare field. It has also provided opportunities for volunteering, networking, and gaining valuable insight into different healthcare careers. The sense of community and support within this club has been a great motivator as I work toward my goal of becoming a physician assistant.

Fitness has always been a big part of my life, and the Carthage Lifting Club has been an awesome way to meet others who share that same passion. I’ve been able to contribute by helping develop workout plans, arranging meetings, and strengthening the club’s sense of community. It’s been more than just a club for lifting — it’s a space where I’ve built strong friendships and stayed consistent with my fitness journey.

The Pre-PA Club has been the most beneficial since it directly aligns with my career goals. I’ve been an active member since 2024 and have gained tons of valuable tips and advice on the physician assistant career path, from application guidance to shadowing opportunities. The club has given me access to resources and mentorship that have helped me feel more prepared for my future in healthcare.”

“I would definitely say the Campbell Student Union is my favorite spot on campus. With all the food options, it’s a great place to grab a meal, take a break, and recharge. I also love how it’s a social hub — I run into friends and familiar faces every time I’m there, which makes it a great spot to catch up and hang out. Another favorite spot is the gym. Fitness is a big part of my routine, and having a space on campus to work out helps me stay consistent and focused. It’s not just about lifting — it’s also a great place to clear my mind, push myself, and even connect with others who share a similar passion for fitness. Between the Student Union and the gym, these spots make campus feel like home, whether I’m grabbing food, socializing, or getting a workout in.”

“One of the best study tactics I’ve used is active recalling. After reviewing and processing the material, I find a friend who knows nothing about the topic and try to explain it to them. This forces me to break down the concepts and understand the underlying processes in a way that I might not have if I had just reviewed the material on my own. It’s a great way to reinforce your understanding and identify areas that need more attention. Additionally, I recommend breaking study sessions into manageable chunks with breaks in between to avoid burnout. I also find it helpful to mix up subjects so that I’m not focusing on the same thing for too long. I want to incorporate different study methods, like using flashcards or teaching others, which has helped me retain information more effectively.”

“The best way to make friends at Carthage is to put yourself out there. Start by approaching one new person every day and complimenting them on something small, like their outfit, hair, or any other attribute you notice. This helps break the ice and opens the door for conversation. Another great way is to get involved in extracurricular organizations. Whether it’s joining clubs, sports, or study groups, you’ll be surrounded by people who share similar interests and goals, which makes it easier to form connections. These activities create a natural setting for meeting others and forming lasting friendships. Don’t be afraid to take the first step — it often leads to meaningful interactions and new friendships.”

“My advice for students considering the allied health science major is to stay in touch with your advising team and consistently update them on your academic progress. Advisors can guide course selection, career opportunities, and even internships that will help you gain the experience needed to succeed. Building a strong relationship with your advisor can make a huge difference in staying on track and finding the right opportunities for you.”

“Looking back, I think my 8-year-old self would feel a sense of surprise, pride, and respect for the path I’ve taken. Growing up, I was always surrounded by a science-focused environment, especially with my mom’s side of the family consisting of scientists and professors. Science was always a part of the conversation and seemed like a natural career path. However, I never thought of myself as a healthcare specialist until recently. At that age, I probably didn’t fully understand the potential impact of the career path I’m now pursuing, but I think I would have been proud of how far I’ve come in turning those early influences into a real, actionable goal of becoming a physician assistant. It’s crazy to think about how everything I was exposed to growing up has shaped where I am today, even if I didn’t see it coming then.”