BUIES CREEK – Campbell University physician assistant student Jessica Robbins was awarded a competitive Air Force scholarship and commissioned as a first lieutenant this week.
Her father, Lt. Col. John Robbins, retired Army personnel, administered the Oath of Office on campus with Jessica’s mother and 30 of her classmates in attendance on Friday, Sept. 23. Jessica received one of 20 scholarships in the nation offered by the Air Force. The scholarship will cover her expenses for tuition and books and provide a monthly stipend while she is in school.
“I am smiling today,” said John Robbins. “This is totally unexpected. We’re really proud of Jessica for taking this initiative, and we will be even prouder when she gets commissioned on active duty.”
Jessica will serve on active duty for three years in the Air Force once she graduates in December 2013 with her master of physician assistant practice degree.
“I’ve experienced a lot of firsts this year, including watching our first physician assistant student get commissioned into an armed force,” said Campbell University President Jerry Wallace. “Jessica will be our first physician assistant graduate to serve in the military, and we are proud of her.”
STORY: Courtesy of Andrea Pratt
PHOTO: Air Force Sgt. Dewey Purdue, Jessica Robbins, first-year Campbell physician assistant student and retired Army Lt. Col. John Robbins