Graduate Spotlight: Professional soccer player scores new goal, earns PA degree
Abigail McQueen |
Kip Colvey, who recently graduated from Lipscomb’s School of Physician Assistant Studies, began his career path as a professional soccer player. However, an opportunity he received through his team inspired Colvey to enter the healthcare field.
In the 2016 Major League Soccer draft, the San Jose Earthquakes drafted Colvey. He played with them for two years before they chose not to renew his contract, leading him to join the Colorado Rapids. In addition, Colvey represented his home country of New Zealand in 15 official games, including the International Friendlies, the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup.
During his time with the Colorado Rapids, Colvey and his teammates visited the St. Jude Hospital in Memphis. The experience deeply impacted Colvey.
“I felt that the impact that the healthcare workers were able to make in people's lives was incredible and something that I wanted to do,” he says. “After some research and shadowing, I chose the PA route and felt like it was the best fit for me.”
Colvey interviewed with a few different physician assistant programs, but he had the best experience with Lipscomb University. He says he was “impressed with the staff and facilities” and felt Lipscomb would be the best place to complete his education.
When reflecting on his time at Lipscomb, Colvey says, “The faculty have been very supportive and I have made some friends for life!” He also says he was impacted by the patients and preceptors he worked with.
In December, Colvey’s hard work paid off when he earned his Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree. On reaching this milestone, he says, “It feels incredible, one of the prouder moments of my life. PA school has been very challenging, but also rewarding.”
Colvey hopes to start his first job as a physician’s assistant this spring. He says he is “so excited” for where his new career takes him.