When Brienna Chamberlain decided to pursue a career in medicine, her choice was shaped by deeply personal experiences.
“When I thought about the type of medical work I wanted to pursue, I reflected on the times when I had been a patient and who was there for me during some of the hardest times in my life,” Chamberlain shares. It was physician assistants (PAs) who stood by her side, providing exceptional care and unwavering encouragement. These experiences inspired Chamberlain to emulate those providers and support patients facing significant hardships.
In her search for a PA program, Chamberlain found her mission aligned perfectly with that of Lincoln Memorial University (LMU). “LMU emphasizes primary care for the medically underserved and was ranked number two nationwide for rural healthcare job placement,” she explains. “I knew I would not only receive strong clinical training but also develop cultural awareness and become the most equitable medical provider possible.”
Building a Community in PA School
Reflecting on her time at LMU’s School of Medical Sciences, Chamberlain’s favorite memories revolve around the bonds she formed with her classmates. “My fondest memories are centered around the community we built as a class and the support we showed each other through one of the most mentally rigorous experiences of our lives,” she recalls.
LMU’s rural setting and dedicated faculty contributed to this unique sense of camaraderie. “Many of our professors had lived most of their lives in the local community and had known each other for years,” Chamberlain notes. “This made each day feel like we were part of a little family.” The relationships she built during her time at LMU have endured, with her classmates remaining a source of advice, support, and celebration.
Pursuing Excellence Through Residency
After completing PA school, Chamberlain took the next step in her medical career by joining Duke University’s PA surgical residency program. For her, the decision to pursue residency stemmed from a commitment to constant growth. “I firmly believe everyone should consistently present the best versions of themselves to their profession, relationships, and communities. This requires the mindset to constantly put in the extra work,” she says.
At Duke, Chamberlain has immersed herself in a rigorous program known for its cutting-edge technology and renowned faculty. “Duke’s history of societal impact, innovation, and medical excellence fosters an intellectual community working towards a new world of medicine,” she says. The opportunity to refine her surgical techniques and contribute to medical advancements has been both humbling and rewarding.
Looking Ahead
As Chamberlain reflects on her journey, she expresses gratitude for her time at LMU and Duke University. “I have been taught by incredible minds at these programs and look forward to implementing what I learned into the next part of my journey and my patients’ lives,” she says.
Now, as a PA-C and a surgical resident at Duke University Medical Center, Chamberlain exemplifies the dedication, compassion, and excellence that Lincoln Memorial University strives to instill in its students. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the impact of caring providers on their communities.
Established in 2019, the School of Medical Sciences (LMU-SMS) is home to LMU’s PA program with a primary care focus at the main campus in Harrogate, Tennessee, a PA program with a surgical focus at LMU-Knoxville, the online Doctor of Medical Science (DMS) program, and the Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) program. The school supports the University’s mission of service to Appalachia and other underserved areas by maintaining high quality medical education and supporting student success.
