Emily Zaghi is a 25-year-old Persian-Jewish student born and raised in Los Angeles, currently pursuing her Master of Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Southern California. She discovered her passion for medicine in her early teens after meeting a compassionate physician assistant who cared for a close family member. Witnessing the profound impact of patient-centered, as well as team-based care she was inspired to pursue the PA profession.
Emily is deeply committed to both academic excellence and community building. While at USC, she co-founded the first and only Jewish PA club at USC, the Jewish Physician Assistant Association (JPAA), and currently serves as its president. Through this role, she has worked to create a supportive space for Jewish students while fostering cultural awareness and meaningful connection within her broader cohort.
Clinically, Emily is especially passionate about working with children, orthopedic surgery, and women’s health. She is drawn to the PA profession in part because of its lateral mobility and flexibility, which allow her to explore multiple areas of medicine while continuing to grow throughout her career.
Outside of clinic, Emily values maintaining a balanced lifestyle. She enjoys staying active through fitness and hot yoga, going on long walks, exploring new coffee shops, and traveling. She looks forward to continuing to build a career rooted in compassion, curiosity, and lifelong learning.