Undergraduate education: Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences
Overall GPA: 3.8
Science GPA: 3.6
GRE: 301
Total PCE hours: 7,380
Total HCE hours: 284
Shadowing hours: 40
Other Volunteer hours: 45
LORs: Four: one from my EMT partner, a PA, a Physical Therapist, and my Physiology professor
How many times did you apply?: Twice
Age: 25
Gender: Female
Why PA? Being a PA will allow me to give back to others in a way that fulfills me most. It's a role that's challenging yet rewarding, team-centered but also autonomous. I can utilize my clinical and interpersonal skills while thinking critically. I also have an interest in healthcare lobbying and feel the future of the profession could benefit from my activism.
How many programs did you apply to? 14
How many programs did you interview with and what were the outcomes? I received 6 interview offers and accepted 5. I ultimately received 1 waitlist and 2 acceptances
Where will you be attending? Western University of Health Sciences
Anything you found surprising about interviews? Each interview was so different. Programs used MMI, essays, math tests, one-on-ones, group interviews, etc. It was so important to be ready for anything! Regardless, each program made me feel as relaxed and comfortable as they could, which was helpful.
Were there any helpful resources (books, websites, apps) you used to get through prerequisite courses, the application or interview process? The Physician Assistant School Interview Guide and The Ultimate Guide to Getting into PA School are my most recommended books. Having mock-interviews with my cousin (a psychologist) helped me be more personable and genuine during my interview. A mock interview with a PA from the PA Platform was also beneficial.
Any other advice for other pre-PA students? Don't give up! You fail at 100% of the things you don't follow-through on. Keep going, stay committed, and remember your purpose. Take your downfalls as a stepping stone for success.
