My name is Charmeen Wilkes and I am a practicing PA in Emergency and Urgent Care medicine. I am born and raised in Charlotte, NC and I currently reside in Charlotte with my amazing husband, Brian, and beautiful 15 month old son, Carter. I went to Appalachian State for undergrad and majored in Athletic Training. After graduating, I took a Graduate Assistant job at Campbell University in their Athletic Training Department. While working as a Certified Athletic Trainer for 3 years, I received my Masters in Exercise Science. I worked with different sports teams and Division 1 athletes and supported not only their physical health but emotional health as well. Shortly after graduating with my Masters, Campbell University established their PA Program. I was eager to expand my reach in helping others. I wanted to serve a more diverse population outside of just athletes. I was accepted into the Inaugural PA class at Campbell University where I completed my Masters in Physician Assistant Practice.

I initially became interested in the PA profession my Junior year in college when I was able to shadow a Family Medicine PA. The PA I shadowed was amazing and connected with her patients well, so she could provide the best optimal care which I admired.

I knew after shadowing her, the PA profession was indeed my passion and I wanted to be part of this amazing profession.

I didn’t have a lot of patient experience. I knew I would have to become a Certified Athletic Trainer in order to gain patient experience hours, so I took my Athletic Training boards and passed. I practiced for three years and gained over 5,000 hours in patient experience. I initially applied to eight PA programs. I received interviews to three PA programs, and I was accepted to two. I decide Campbell University was the best fit for me. Being part of the Campbell PA program was an amazing experience. I know I wouldn’t be the PA I am today without the knowledge and experience I was able to gain from attending their PA program.

I have a huge passion for PA advocacy and outreach. I truly believe we have to have a seat at the table for our profession to continue to grow and evolve. In order to do that, we have to look at how we are shaping the profession and that starts with Pre-PA students and PA Programs. Being a mentor for Pre-PA/PA students is key, as you are the future of our profession. I currently serve as the Vice-President for the Metrolina Association of Physician Associates which allows me to have a platform for advocating as well as the opportunity to mentor current PA students through the PA programs we sponsor. I’m so excited to join The Posh PA team and can’t wait to work with you, guide and mentor you along your PA journey. This is just the beginning-- the best is yet to come!

In my free time when I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I love to exercise, travel, go to concerts, binge watch Netflix shows, and listen to medical podcast.

 Charmeen
charmeen@micheleneskey.com

Follow Me on Instagram @babygrlmack