Undergraduate education: Old Dominion University
Overall GPA: 4.0
Science GPA: 4.0
GRE: 108
Total PCE hours: 33 (had just started as an MA when I sent my application!)
Total HCE hours: 612 (ER scribe)
Shadowing hours: 4 (only one opportunity)
Other Volunteer hours: 469 + a lot of involvement in the Filipino organization at my school! :)
LORs: 3 (1 PA, 1 Professor, 1 Mentor)
How many times did you apply?: 1
Age: 21
Gender: Female
Why PA? After seeing PAs work (ER & gastroenterology), I really loved that they were able to bridge a gap in healthcare, helping more patients be seen while still providing high-quality care to all. Not to mention, they can spend more time with the patient, which can really help a visit feel more personable. I also love the lateral mobility aspect of the profession; I'm not exactly sure what speciality I want to go into yet, but I know that I will be able to find one that I really enjoy.
How many programs did you apply to? 4
How many programs did you interview with and what were the outcomes? 2 interviews, 2 acceptances
Where will you be attending? Arcadia University
Anything you found surprising about interviews? Both programs I interviewed at (Pace & Arcadia), had such wonderful environments. Although the candidates were technically "competing" for spots, everyone was so kind and supportive of each other. The interviews were more relaxed than I anticipated, which really helped ease my nerves and allowed my true personality shine through.
Were there any helpful resources (books, websites, apps) you used to get through prerequisite courses, the application or interview process? Savanna Perry's PA interview book taught me all the strategies I needed for the interviews. I also reached out to my school's Biology advising department to do 2 mock interviews, a 1-on-1 and a group interview, which really helped me work on articulating answers.
Any other advice for other pre-PA students? If you're a younger applicant still finishing up your undergrad but want to keep the ball rolling, don't hesitate to apply! Especially if you've been working towards your goal while in school! I didn't think I had enough or *good* enough healthcare hours, but most of the alumni that I talked to encouraged me to apply anyways. Definitely glad to have listened to them!
Also, don't just apply to random programs. Really look to see what makes each program unique. I'm so thankful my friend told me about Arcadia; they are highly involved in their community and have amazing international opportunities which have me extremely excited to attend! So, definitely find a program that fits you. :)
Where can we find you? instagram - @lyssachi
