Sasha Thompson

Medicine is in Sasha Thompson’s blood. She comes from a long line of medical professionals. While she initially resisted the call to the family profession, it didn’t take long to get hooked.

“I was adamant about not going into medicine,” said Sasha Thompson. “But then I went on a medical mission trip and realized I couldn’t do anything else. There’s a unique place that medicine puts you in and allows you to make a difference in people’s lives.”

The medical mission trips she took with her father, starting when she was 14, became the bedrock of her career. She became fluent in Spanish and served as an interpreter. As she went through school, her skills grew and she embraced nursing.

“From my experience interpreting, I saw how different parts of the healthcare team contribute to the overall outcome. There is a legacy for nurses as they fill the needs of patients.”

Following degrees in Spanish and Global Health from Vanderbilt University, she enrolled in Emory University’s Nell Hodgson School of Nursing for her BSN and MSN. While a student, she worked at MedLink for two rotations and felt called to the work.

“This is the type of care I dreamed of providing. They really care about the patients. It’s a unique opportunity to give back to the community.”

Never one to rest, Sasha wanted to continue growing her career and skillset. Nursing and becoming a Nurse Practitioner allow her to help people, particularly the most vulnerable populations. That’s where the NoGAPP program comes in. It will serve as the springboard for her career and give her the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of patients.

“Joining the program, I knew I needed a strong foundation. Not many other programs offer this experience. This is the type of medicine I hope to make my career in.”