Meet South University Graduate Nicole Busche Earley
Nicole Busche Earley has been a board-certified physician assistant (PA) for over twenty years, with expertise in dermatology, rheumatology, and gastroenterology. She holds three degrees, including a Bachelor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies earned in 2003 from South University, Savannah.* After two decades in healthcare and a recent change to a new role, Nicole knows that her education laid a strong foundation for her career success.
Becoming a PA: The Journey to South University & Beyond
Before studying to become a PA, Nicole worked in a variety of clinical settings to gain experience with patients. She was a hospital volunteer, then a certified nursing assistant, EKG tech, monitor tech, phlebotomist, dental assistant, and dental radiologist while also studying for her biology undergraduate degree. Ultimately, she chose PA as her career because it would equip her for a wide range of work in the medical field.
“It seemed like a great career for well-rounded individuals, as the PA profession allows you to be certified in general medicine but change specialties if desired. It also offers a nice work-life balance,” she shares.
At South University, Nicole found great value in her applied learning experiences and clinical rotations, which prepared her to enter the profession with real-world skills and exposure to many specialties. “The education, experience, and career guidance I received from South University were top-notch,” she says. “I felt prepared to sit and pass my national boards on the first try and had confidence in my first clinical role.”
Since completing a Physician Assistant degree, Nicole has worked as a PA in numerous organizations. In addition to working with patients, Nicole has served as a medical recruiting director, clinical educator, freelance writer on medical topics, and even a mindfulness and health coach. Over the years, she’s precepted nursing and PA students from multiple schools, including South University. As a volunteer, she has done health screenings with the YMCA and Florida public schools.
Career Moves: A New Way to Apply Her PA Knowledge
After almost 20 years caring for patients, Nicole decided it was time for a change. In 2022, she entered the pharmaceutical industry as a medical science liaison (MSL). MSLs are clinical professionals with advanced degrees and expertise in therapeutic areas. As scientific subject matter experts, they act as a bridge between a pharmaceutical or biotech company and the medical community. Using their medical knowledge, they inform a company’s strategy and medical product development. They then help educate healthcare professionals about how to safely and effectively use those products.
“I am an advocate for the PA profession and feel lucky for how versatile my career has been so far,” says Nicole. “Being a PA has given me the skills, drive, adaptability, and tenacity to think outside the box for my career.”
Since becoming an MSL, Nicole has participated in a national field medical affairs committee and been involved in launching several different drugs. She also joined a leadership development program where she mentored new hires and led presentations internally and at local, state, and national conferences. As she looks to the future, she hopes to continue advancing in this field. “I enjoy medical education, mentoring, and leading teams and hope to take on a director role in the future,” she shares.
Advice for Building Your Career
Beyond the impact of education, several other factors have contributed to Nicole’s career success. For example, she advises students that relationship building, emotional intelligence, and how you treat others can be more important than the technical skills and certifications you hold. Persistence and effort have also been critical.
“Whatever career you want, you are smart enough to do it. You just have to work hard and have a positive mindset to achieve it,” she advises. “Don't take no for an answer. If you fail, learn from it, improve, and try again.”
Elevate your knowledge and potential in the healthcare field with South University. Explore our healthcare programs, or request information today.
Or, if you’re a grad and want to share your experience and accomplishments, log in to the South University Alumni Site and click Share Your Story in the Alumni Success section.
--
*Since 2003, the master’s degree has replaced the bachelor’s degree as the standard education required for PA licensure. As such, South University’s PA program is now a Master of Science in Physician Assistant.
Graduates are required to pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license in order to work in the field. (Exam names vary by program.) Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for additional information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.
Clinical/Medical programs have a required in-person clinical, practicum, or externship requirement. We cannot guarantee flexibility in these components of the program.
Testimonials have been provided by students/alumni in their own words and without coercion. This spotlight is based on information shared in 2025.
