Episode 9: Pursuing the Physician Assistant Path with LT Alyse Westbrooks '18

<p>If you’re interested in the Interservice Physician’s Assistant Program, then this episode is for you!</p><p></p><p>1/c Elijah Parent and Tara King Clark welcome LT Alyse Westbrooks '18, whose journey from Coast Guard cutter deck watch officer to physician assistant demonstrates the power of curiosity, initiative, and perseverance. What began as an interest in science evolved into a carefully planned path toward medicine—one she built largely on her own through extra coursework, EMT certification, volunteer experiences, and an unwavering commitment to a goal that wasn't widely known among cadets at the time.</p><p></p><p>Alyse shares how discovering the Coast Guard's Interservice Physician Assistant Program (IPAP) transformed her career aspirations and why transparency with her command, strong mentorship, and relentless preparation made all the difference. She reflects on balancing the demands of Academy life while pursuing additional prerequisites, navigating PA school during the COVID-19 pandemic, and returning to the Academy clinic where she created a women's health program, mentored cadets, and worked to improve medical support for future swabs.</p><p></p><p>Throughout the conversation, Alyse reminds listeners that not every career path is clearly marked from the beginning. By sharing your interests, seeking out mentors, and remaining open to unexpected opportunities, you may discover a future you never knew existed. Her story is a powerful reminder that some of the Coast Guard's most rewarding careers are built through persistence, service, and a willingness to forge your own path.</p><p></p><p><b>Alumni Impact Interlude</b></p><p>This episode's Alumni Impact Interlude celebrates the U.S. Coast Guard Academy Women's Rugby Team, whose historic 2025 season included both the Collegiate Rugby Sevens Division II Championship and the program's first National College Rugby Championship. Captain 1/c Kate Boggs reflects on how rugby became her anchor during Academy life, the culture of resilience and teamwork that fueled two national titles, and how alumni support through the Bears Athletics Fund and Women's Rugby Fund helped make those championship runs possible while strengthening a 25-year legacy of women's rugby at the Academy.</p><p></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.cgaalumni.org/s/1043/images/editor_documents/News/2026/024_bulletin_rubgy_champs_feb_26.pdf%22%3e024_bulletin_rubgy_champs_feb_26.pdf" target="_blank">Read more about the team’s historic season.</a></p><p></p><p>Keywords: Alyse Westbrooks, LT Alyse Westbrooks, Corps Conversations, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, physician assistant, IPAP, Interservice Physician Assistant Program, military medicine, mentorship, leadership, career development, EMT, women's health, Coast Guard medical officer, cutter life, COVID-19, Academy clinic, women's rugby, Kate Boggs, Bears Athletics Fund, Studio 1887, USCGA Alumni Association</p><p></p><p><b>Support this Podcast</b></p><ul><li>Stay connected by becoming a member of the USCGA Alumni Association at <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.cgaalumni.org/1887" target="_blank">www.cgaalumni.org/1887</a></li><li>Make a donation at <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.cgaalumni.org/1887gift" target="_blank">www.cgaalumni.org/1887gift</a></li></ul>