A Family Legacy: Raquel Sammartano's Journey to Becoming a Physician Assistant

Meet Raquel Sammartano! After receiving her Bachelor of Arts degrees in in Biology, Psychology, and Italian from Binghamton University, Raquel enrolled in the Physician Assistant (PA) Program-Pleasantville. In May she represented the College of Health Professions (CHP) at the national 2025 American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) Conference and Expo in Denver, Colorado. But what made this experience extra special was her father also being in attendance.

Robert Sammartano, PA-C, is currently a faculty member at the University of Mount Saint Vincent PA Program and has been an instrumental part of Raquel’s personal and professional journey – motivating her to follow in his footsteps as a PA.

What inspired you to become a PA?

Growing up, I had the unique opportunity to watch a PA make a real impact every day—my dad, a PA in pediatric surgery. I saw how he balanced medical knowledge with meaningful patient relationships, and how his role allowed him to diagnose, treat, educate, and advocate for his patients when I was on rounds with him. Over time, my own experiences in healthcare settings only solidified what I already knew: becoming a PA was the path that felt right for me.

How has your father (a PA-C) impacted your own journey to become a PA?

My father didn’t just introduce me to the PA profession, he embodies the kind of provider I hope to be. His work ethic and compassion are inspiring, never sugarcoating the challenges, and always speaks about the privilege of helping patients in vulnerable moments. He has encouraged me to find my own path but has also provided mentorship at each stage of the journey, from answering questions about clinical scenarios to helping me reflect on the responsibility that comes with the role.

What insights into the life of a PA did you get growing up?

From a young age, I observed the demands of the role—long hours, complex cases, difficult conversations—but also the rewards: the gratitude of patients, the trust of the care team, and the fulfillment that comes from making a difference. I learned that being a PA isn’t just about medicine, it’s about adaptability, communication, and trust. Those insights helped me approach this path with realistic expectations and respect for the profession.

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What was it like attending the national AAPA conference in a professional capacity alongside your father?

Attending AAPA was truly an amazing experience for me. I was honored to represent Pace as the AAPA Student Academy Representative (SAR), which gave me the opportunity to attend the conference and take part in discussions about the future of our profession. I’m incredibly grateful to my professors and program leadership who supported and encouraged me to pursue this opportunity because they were instrumental in making it happen.

What was it like representing the Physician Assistant Program - -Pleasantville at the conference?

Walking into a space filled with PA leaders, educators, and students from across the country, I felt a strong sense of pride in where I come from and the education I’m receiving.

Being there as a SAR gave me a new perspective on the broader impact we can have outside the classroom and clinic. I had the chance to meet and connect with student representatives from programs across the country, including other SARs who I quickly formed friendships with. We’re already planning to attend next year’s conference together, and those connections have become a meaningful part of my professional and personal network.

Why did you pick Pace (College of Health Professions) to continue your education?

I chose CHP because I was looking for a PA program that combined rigorous academic training with a supportive, close-knit learning environment. I knew I wanted to build strong connections with both my peers and professors while being a part of a community where everyone was truly invested in each other’s success.

What really confirmed my decision though was the interview process. Those can be intimidating by nature, but my experience at Pace was completely different. The faculty created an environment where I didn’t feel pressured or judged—instead, I felt like they genuinely wanted to get to know me beyond what was on my application. I walked away from the interview feeling seen, supported, and excited at the thought of joining a program that values who you are just as much as what you’ve achieved.

How has the Pleasantville PA program supported your professional development?

The program has played a huge role in shaping not just my clinical knowledge, but the kind of provider I will become. The faculty push us to meet a high standard of excellence, but they never let us go it alone. Their support is constant and intentional, always available, encouraging, and truly invested in our growth. From clinical reasoning and technical proficiency to communication and patient-centered care, they ensure we’re equipped to be well-rounded, thoughtful, and highly capable providers.

There’s also a strong emphasis on empathy and professionalism, which reminds us that medicine is about people, not just diagnoses. That balance of high expectations and unwavering support has been incredibly motivating.

If you could give any advice to someone interested in pursuing the PA profession, what would it be?

Stay curious! Never be afraid to ask questions, whether you’re shadowing, in class, or in clinicals. Some of the best learning happens when you lean into what you don’t know and even by making mistakes. This profession is built on lifelong learning, and curiosity is what keeps you growing.

I’d also say: know in your heart why you want to become a PA and hold onto that. This path can be intense and challenging but staying true to your values and knowing your “why” will carry you through.

And finally, what does it feel like to be following in your father's footsteps as a PA?

It’s incredibly meaningful. There’s a sense of pride in knowing I’m carrying forward a legacy of care and service. While our journeys are our own, I often think of how my dad has impacted so many lives, —and that motivates me to work hard, stay grounded, and always remember why I chose this path.

It was especially meaningful to see my father in his role as the surgical representative in the House of Delegates (HOD). Watching him bring his surgical perspective into important policy discussions—raising concerns, offering insight, and contributing to thoughtful debate—was a full-circle moment for me, as I step into my own leadership role while witnessing him continue to lead in his. Sharing that space with him was both humbling and motivating, and it solidified my commitment to being an active voice in the PA community.

Raquel is expected to graduate from Pace University in 2026.