MEDEX is happy and proud to announce that, earlier this year, Tayleigh Talmadge (Kona Class 4) was one of the four recipients of the Susan Lindahl Memorial Scholarship, established and managed by Physician Assistants Orthopaedic Surgery, Inc. (PAOS). Recently, Tayleigh kindly took some time to share more with us about her experience.
What inspired you to apply for this scholarship?
I actually hadn’t heard of the Susan Lindahl Memorial Scholarship until my classmate, Aleah, sent me a text with the link saying, “I saw this and thought of you!” knowing I had some experience in the field of orthopedics. I graduated with my Master’s in Athletic Training prior to PA school and worked three years as an AT in the secondary school setting, so I looked into the scholarship requirements further. I felt that I fulfilled the criteria, and having sincere interest in becoming a PA in orthopedics, I applied from there.
Beyond the monetary support, what does receiving the scholarship mean to you?
Receiving the scholarship was extremely validating since I have dedicated the past decade to working in sports medicine. I started out as an AT and then pursued PA, so I am able to utilize my past and present training to promote the professions. I am humbled that the committee recognized my dedication toward the field of orthopedics and sports medicine with my education and work experience. Generously, the Physician Assistants in Orthopaedic Surgery Foundation funded my expenses to attend the annual CME convention, Ortho on the Strip 2025, which provided me an incredible opportunity to expand my knowledge, learn new skills, and network as well. This opportunity meant the world to me.
How did your presentation go, and what was it about?
The presentation went so much better than I expected, and I have my fellow scholarship winners to thank for that. I have a serious fear of public speaking, but after watching how confidently the others presented their topics, I felt so much calmer and capable of making it through without stuttering or choking on my words.
My review article discussed medial knee stabilization, comparing medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFLR) versus medial quadriceps tendon femoral ligament reconstruction (MQTFLR) in the treatment of patellar instability. I got the idea from my orthopedic surgery preceptor since we performed a handful of these procedures on my clinical rotation.
What are you working on/toward now? What are you excited about?
I have been studying for the PANCE and visiting with loved ones. It has been nice to take a break from the hectic reality of PA school and enjoy quality time with friends and family. Mostly, I am excited to see where I end up working once I pass the board exam–God willing, orthopedic surgery.
Anything else you would like to share?
I encourage UW MEDEX PA students to look into this scholarship if they have a passion for orthopedic and sports medicine. You never know what could happen! If you have any interest in hearing more about my topic, I just completed an episode on the [PAOS] orthoPAc podcast 10/16/25, release date TBD.