Stephen Vale, 27, recently received his master of physician assistant studies during Florida Gulf Coast University’s (FGCU) fall commencement. As he prepares for a career as an emergency medicine physician assistant, Vale reflected on the influences that shaped his academic and professional path.
Vale’s interest in psychology began early in life, influenced by being one of nine siblings and his experiences with bullying. His undergraduate civic engagement project at Special Equestrians, a therapeutic riding center offering equine-assisted activities and therapies, played a significant role in directing him toward medicine.
“While working with individuals who faced significant barriers to care, I saw firsthand how uneven access to healthcare can be,” said Vale. “That experience shifted my focus from wanting to help people primarily on a psychological level to wanting to make a broader impact by addressing the healthcare gap in a more direct, clinical way.”
Vale was introduced to FGCU while completing dual-enrollment studies at Florida SouthWestern State College. An academic advisor recommended FGCU as an option for continuing his education. The university has a “2+2 agreement” with FSW and other partner schools that allows associate’s degree recipients to transfer seamlessly into bachelor’s programs.
At FGCU, Vale earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a concentration in neuroscience and cognition and minored in biology. Through shadowing healthcare professionals, he learned about the physician assistant role and its origins as a means to improve healthcare access for underserved populations.
“Throughout my PA training and clinical rotations, I developed a strong passion for both primary care and emergency medicine,” said Vale. “I hope to build a career that allows me to integrate both fields. In addition to clinical practice, I plan to continue my research efforts to contribute to evidence-based medicine and support ongoing improvements in patient care.”
Vale’s academic journey was further shaped by mentorship from Todd McElroy, associate professor of psychology at FGCU. After assisting McElroy with data work on a research project, Vale co-authored a poster presentation for the Southeastern Psychological Association Conference (SEPA). McElroy later invited him to publish the project as an author rather than just as a student researcher.
“That moment changed everything for me,” said Vale. “Our relationship grew into one built on collaboration, trust and mutual respect. His mentorship transformed my academic experience. Instead of feeling like I was simply a student moving through courses, he helped me feel like a true collaborator within the broader academic community. Working with him strengthened my confidence, shaped my critical-thinking abilities, and refined the way I approach evidence-based practice.”
Vale also mentored junior researchers after becoming student research director in McElroy’s lab. He guided new students through research processes by creating training modules and instructional videos.
“Mentoring taught me a great deal about leadership, patience and the importance of clear communication,” said Vale. “It taught me how rewarding it is to support others as they grow academically and professionally. Watching students present their posters at SEPA and knowing I had played a part in their development was incredibly meaningful. It reminded me of where I started and allowed me to see the process come full circle.”
McElroy praised Vale’s qualities: “In my 20 years of mentoring students, I can state without reservation that Stephen is among the finest students I have ever had the privilege to work with,” said McElroy. “His intellectual curiosity, uncompromising integrity and genuine compassion for others create a rare combination that will undoubtedly lead to a distinguished career in healthcare.”
Vale has co-authored two manuscripts with McElroy so far; additional projects are underway. He is preparing his first single-authored manuscript based on his capstone project about vaccination and HIV. He has also completed peer review work for an academic journal and presented research ten times at SEPA conferences as well as internationally.
“I would like to add how deeply meaningful my relationship with Dr. McElroy has been,” said Vale. “Over the years, he has become far more than a mentor. He has become a lifelong friend and someone whose guidance has shaped both my academic journey and my personal development. His belief in me, from the very beginning, helped me recognize my own potential, and the impact he has had on my life is something I will always value.
“The support I received throughout my undergraduate and graduate studies helped shape me into the person and future clinician I am today.”
