Confusione’ s published research stands out among graduating PA classmates
By Bob Thomas FSU College of Medicine
Saejin Confusione stands out among her College of Medicine School of Physician Assistant classmates on multiple fronts. The only classically trained violinist in the PA Class of 2025, having taken up the instrument as a 5-year-old, she is also the only one who was born in China.
What also sets apart the Jacksonville-raised Confusione— she was adopted at 13 months old— is her name alongside College of Medicine clerkship faculty member Tristan Hasbargen, MMS, PA-C, in a research article published in the February / March 2025 issue of Journal of Dermatology for NPs & PAs.
Confusione co-authored the cover article,“ Overview of Atopic Dermatitis in East Asian Cultures.”
Their work explores the high incidence of atopic dermatitis among East Asian cultures, despite the lack of case studies and meta-analyses. The collaborative research examines the statistical correlation of increased risk among that population and aims to raise awareness regarding treatment and management of the disease holistically.
Perhaps most remarkably, Confusione completed her research work in the spring of 2023 during a gap year, as part of the DRAPS( Dermatology Research & Practice Scholars) Program at Dermatology Associates of Tallahassee. That program was designed to provide clinical and research experiences that would increase the likelihood of gaining admission to medical or PA school.
She started FSU’ s PA program in August 2023 and will graduate Dec. 13.
“ It is unique that Saejin would participate in an article like this,” said Ben Smith, DMSc, PA-C, director of the PA program.“ We have had fewer than five students who have done so before beginning the program, which is similar to other PA programs.”
It was Hasbargen who approached Confusione.
“ She picked up learning on the job very quickly and was interested in other ways that she could help,” Hasbargen said.“ I had just started working on an article and asked that she help research and write this article. I also thought that this would be a great thing to add to her CV.”
12 FSUMED | MED. FSU. EDU