Serving with Purpose: My Journey as a PA through the National Health Service Corps Scholarship

Written by Shane Grayson Founder of Cardiac Coffee Co.

As a certified physician assistant (PA) and proud native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, I’ve always believed in two things: the importance of service and the power of coffee to fuel it. At Cardiac Coffee Co., our mission is to give back to healthcare professionals and organizations that uplift communities—because I know firsthand how challenging and rewarding that work can be.

One of the most transformative experiences of my career has been participating in the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Scholarship Program, which helps pay for PA school in exchange for a commitment to serve in an underserved community at a federally qualified health center (FQHC).

Let’s dive into what the program offers, my real experience, and whether I would recommend it for other future PAs.

What Is the NHSC Scholarship?

The NHSC Scholarship Program helps students in healthcare professions—like physician assistants—cover the cost of education in return for a commitment to provide primary care services in underserved communities.

Options for Award:

  • Pay for didactic and clinical years if you apply before starting PA school.

  • Cover just the clinical year if you apply while already in PA school.

  • Offer a $75,000 lump sum if you apply after you're already working at an FQHC.

My NHSC Journey: From Pittsburgh to Buffalo

After completing my PA education at Mercyhurst University in Erie, I moved to Buffalo, New York, to fulfill my service at a community health center. It wasn’t just a career step—it was a crash course in resilience, responsibility, and deep cultural understanding.

Clinical Exposure

I inherited a panel of patients who had not received regular care for over six months. Many had:

  • Uncontrolled diabetes (A1Cs regularly over 14%)

  • Hypertension

  • Coronary artery disease

  • Hyperlipidemia

  • Complex insulin regimens

  • Cultural or language barriers requiring translation services

And I wasn't just treating the "usual" chronic conditions. I saw:

  • Malaria

  • Tuberculosis

  • Beta thalassemia blast crises

  • Multiple myeloma

These aren’t things most providers see in a typical suburban clinic. This job made me a better clinician, hands down.

Tips for Applying to the NHSC Scholarship

  1. Apply before PA school – This gives you the most financial benefit (covering all school years).

  2. If applying while working at an FQHC, wait until you’re fully employed—you’ll likely get more money.

  3. Prepare to relocate – You may have to move to underserved areas where you're needed most.

  4. Write a compelling mission-driven essay – Highlight a real desire to serve underserved populations.

  5. Be strategic about timing – Don’t wait too long into your career; apply when you’re flexible.

 Pros of the NHSC Scholarship

  • Reduced educational debt: Helps alleviate the burden of student loans.

  • Guaranteed job placement: You're matched with FQHCs that need you.

  • Immense clinical exposure: You’ll see a broad spectrum of disease.

  • Cultural competency: You’ll grow rapidly in communication and empathy.

  • Deep impact: You’re helping those who need it most.

 Cons of the NHSC Scholarship

  • Lower pay compared to specialties outside of primary care.

  • Outdated equipment and EMRs in some FQHCs.

  • Heavy paperwork load—you’re often the sole provider managing social, physical, and emotional care.

  • Challenging patient population with low health literacy and transportation issues.

  • Mentorship varies – Some clinics may leave you to "figure it out," which is daunting for a new grad.

 Would I Do It Again?

Honestly? No. While I value everything I’ve learned and the patients I’ve served, I would personally recommend an alternate route:

Work a year in a high-paying specialty, live frugally, and aggressively pay off your loans. Then, if you’re passionate about underserved medicine, return to an FQHC on your own terms—or pursue loan repayment through other programs like NHSC Loan Repayment.

However, if your heart is 100% in it for the mission, then the NHSC Scholarship can be a powerful start to a meaningful career.

 Final Thoughts

At Cardiac Coffee Co., we believe in fueling healthcare heroes—especially those who, like me, have served in challenging environments to bring care to the people who need it most. If you’re a PA student considering the NHSC Scholarship, weigh your options carefully, and know that while it’s not for everyone, it can be one of the most rewarding decisions you ever make.

Need some caffeine to get through your shift or your application? We’ve got you covered—one cup at a time for a cause that matters.

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