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Becoming a PA

We've put together a general list of what it takes to become a Physician Assistant!

Of course this list is not exhaustive and is always changing as the profession changes. Hopefully, it can help if you are feeling a little lost or are new to the pre-PA track. For specifics, go to the websites of the PA schools you wish to one day attend!

Prerequisite Courses

While you can major in anything as an undergraduate, you will still need to complete several required prerequisites!

  • Chemistry 1 and 2 with Labs

  • Foundations of Biology 1 and 2 with Labs

  • Anatomy and Physiology 1 and 2 with Labs

  • Organic Chemistry 1 with Lab

  • Microbiology with Lab

  • Psychology 

  • English Composition

  • Medical Terminology

Other Common Prerequisite Courses

Every PA school is different and has slightly different required pre-reqs.

  • Upper Level Psychology

  • Organic Chemistry 2 with Lab

  • Biochemistry

  • Genetics

  • Nutrition

Care Hours, Volunteering & Shadowing

Similarly to the pre-reqs, Patient Care hours, Health Care hours and Volunteering hours vary program to program (200-1000 hours).

  • Health Care Experience (HCE)

    • Both paid and unpaid work in a health or health-related field where you are not directly responsible for a patient's care, but may still have patient interaction.

    • Ex: pharmacy technician, patient transporter, clerical work, hospital volunteering, delivering patient meals

  • Direct Patient Care Experience (PCE)

    • Experiences in which you are directly responsible for a patient's care. For example, prescribing medication, performing procedures, directing a course of treatment, designing a treatment regimen, or actively working on patients.

    • Ex: nurse, paramedic, EMT, CNA, MA, phlebotomist, physical therapist, dental hygienist, etc.

  • Volunteering

    • Not mandatory for most PA schools but looks very good

    • Hospital applications online you can fill out before the start of each semester

    • Take advantage of volunteer opportunities with clubs

  • Shadowing

    • Can apply to shadow at UPMC

      • $50 (up to 3 times)

      • Must schedules at least 6 weeks in advance

    • Can apply to shadow at AHN

      • Free (as often as you want)

      • Must contact PA by contacting the office and speaking to manager

      • Fill out shadowing form for AHN to confirm

    • Many programs are now accepting virtual shadowing too! Resources:

      • Instagram: prehealthshadowing​

      • Instagram: virtualshadowing

      • Instagram: officialclubmed

      • Instagram: thensbpa

    • It is very beneficial to make connections with PAs that you work with or already know!

Application Process

Do research on different programs and set your goals!

  • Figure out when you will finish your required coursework and patient care hours

    • It's okay to take a year to finish patient care hours if necessary!​

  • Study for the GRE/PA-CAT

    • The Graduate Record Examinations is a standardized test that tests verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking and analytical writing skills. While some PA schools require their applicants to take it, the exam is slowly being phased out.

    • The Physician Assistant College Admission Test (PA-CAT) is a specialized test that is designed to measure knowledge and application in key prerequisite science subjects typically required for PA school. 

  • Receive letters of recommendation

    • You will need letters of recommendation and references before you apply to PA school​

    • Ask past/current employers, professors, advisors, mentors, etc.

    • It's best to ask someone who knows you well enough to speak to your character (but not a family member!)

  • Personal Statement

    • Can include:​

      • A captivating introduction, such as a personal story/experience​

      • Why you want to be a PA (try not to be cliche)

      • Description of a shadowing/volunteering experience

      • Why you would be a good candidate for a specific program

      • An explanation of low grades if you have any (turn a negative into a positive with this one. If you are going to include this talk about your growth/ability to overcome difficulties)

      • What you can add to the profession

    • Shouldn't include:

      • Negative comments about other professions​

      • Excuses for bad grades

CASPA

After you narrow down on the different programs, it is time to apply.

  • Before applying

    • Look around and get familiar with the website â€‹

  • Ready to begin applying

    • CASPA recommends starting your applications â€‹three months in advance or sooner (CASPA opens late April)

    • Order transcripts to be sent to each program 4-6 weeks before their deadline

    • Remind those writing your recommendations the deadlines you must meet 

    • Make sure all components are filled out (HCE, shadowing, GRE/PA-CAT, personal statements, essays, supplements, etc.)

  • After applying​​

    • Congratulate yourself and get ready for interviews!​

  • Resource from former PPAA President, Lillie Cutugno regarding the CASPA

Interview

Once you apply, schools will reach out for an interview!

  • Be passionate and enthusiastic! This is your chance to provide details you weren't able to fit in your personal statement.

  • Learn everything you can about the program and be able to talk about why you applied specifically to that program.

    • Make sure you know what that specific PA school's mission statement is!​

  • Practice, practice practice! There are tons of practice interview questions available on the internet.

  • If you get caught off guard just take a minute to compose yourself before rambling to fill the silence.

  • Dress for the part - business professional

  • Don't be late!

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