It's that time of year again! When we get to celebrate our loved ones by getting them heartfelt gifts. We've compiled a list of our favorite choices for the pre-PA students, current PA students, and practicing physician assistants. It's been such a strange year with the pandemic and everything shutdown, so even if you can't see your loved ones in person, you can show them love this season through your "presents." (Feel free to forward this list to friends and family to give them some ideas. That is what I will be doing also.) This post does include some affiliate links, which doesn't increase the price for you, but gives us a small percentage of some purchases. Follow us on social media @thepaplatform on Instagram to be on the lookout for deals and sales.
Pre-PA Gift Ideas
For school: To make the pre-PA journey a little easier, here are some gifts to consider gifting to take some of the stress away.
Interview Package - Interview Guide and Course - When it's time to apply for PA school, the interview is one of the most important parts and it's never too soon to start preparing.
PA School Interview Course (p.s use code FUTUREPA for a discount!)
Med Couture Scrubs - Getting patient care hours is required for almost every program, and many positions have a dress code of scrubs. These ones on the right are some of my favorite affordable one
Picmonic - With a specific pre-health option, Picmonic offers a visual study aid that any pre-PA student will find helpful. - Click here for 20% off
For self care: When focused on becoming a PA, it can be easy to forget about taking care of yourself. Help your pre-PA student focus on themselves during the process.
Big water bottle - One change I've made this year is increasing my water intake, and it's made me feel so much better. Highly recommend this half gallon water bottle.
Workout clothes - Getting active and moving your body is a great energy booster. Here are some of my favorite Amazon Lululemon dupes.
Sound machine and gentle alarm clock - Sleep is essential! This sound machine and gentle light/alarm clock duo is perfect for the anxious student.
PA Student Gift Ideas
For school:
To study - The study 24/7 lifestyle is just a part of PA school, but here are some things that can make it just a little bit easier.
Smarty Pance - Studying for the PANCE starts on day 1 of PA school. Smarty Pance is a great option to study throughout school. - thepaplatform 10% off
PANCE prep pearls - AKA the PA school Bible. I'm honored to call the author Dwayne a friend, and he is also a practicing PA, so he knows exactly what's needed to get through PA school.
PANCE review book - For a quick review, this was my go-to during PA school, and a book that every student needs.
Tech - Since the majority of PA school consists of hours of lectures, pen and paper may not cut it anymore.
iPad - In the Pre-PA Club group on Facebook, it's overwhelmingly recommended to have an iPad for taking notes during PA school.
Apple pen. If your student already has the iPad covered, the apple pen is a great companion and you're saving trees!
iPad case with keyboard - Personally speaking, it's the worst when an accidental drop wipes out a device. This case provides protection and a keyboard.
For rotations: Clinical rotations can be stressful with long hours, so being ready to take them on is essential.
Medelita scrub jacket - My absolute favorite thing to wear at work 24/7.
Crocs for work - Crocs have become my go-to work shoe. They're light, supportive, and comfortable. Don't knock them 'til you try them!
Apple Watch - I got an apple watch last year from a family member, and I never thought I would love it as much as I do. Super convenient.
Having an extra band is always helpful, and I love this one. It's affordable and easy to clean.
For survival: Help your PA students in your life focus on some things outside of school and get through the tough weeks with some of these gifts.
Keurig mini - Coffee. Because PA school.
Kindle - My personal lifesaver. My kindle goes everywhere with me and is a great distraction. See below for favorite books.
Cashflow Cornerstones online course - One thing we didn't really learn about in PA school is finances. This course created by a PA is a lifesaver for getting the basics down.
Physician Assistant Gift Ideas
For work: While the PA in your life may not specifically request something for work, here are some things they may not have invested in themselves yet.
White coat - When it comes to white coats, Medelita has set the standard. The Rebecca is my absolute favorite and I recommend Sprite for thread color!
New Balance Nergize - Good-looking comfy shoes are a must for working in medicine. These are some of my favorites. I might have 4 colors.
Blue light glasses - Thanks to EMRs, we stare at computers and screens all day long and could use some eye relief.
Scrubs - If you have any guy PAs in your life, my husband's favorite scrubs are Figs. Use this link for $20 off your first purchase.
For life: To separate from work life, here are some fun things that I've loved this year and think any PA (or person) would be happy to get.
Skin category: Being a dermatology PA, I have to give some skin recommendations of course.
Babe Lash - Using a lash serum and not having to use mascara everyday has been a game changer. Use code SAVANNA for 20% off.
Revision block - For an updated, but basic skincare routine, Revision skincare is my favorite cosmeceutical line. With these 3 products, you'll be set.
Brightening Wash - This vitamin C and glycolic acid based wash is a great first step.
Vitamin C - Dull skin? No problem! This topical vitamin C will brighten skin and lighten dark spots.
Retinol Complete - Retinols are the best for slowing down fine lines and wrinkles. This one is very tolerable.
Dyson Airwrap - Ok. The price tag is high, but the time saving is so worth it. Wet to styled hair in 10 minutes.
To read: Book club is the highlight of my month, and here are some of the favorites from the past year.
The Silent Patient - The biggest thriller and twist we read all year.
One True Loves - Taylor Jenkins Reid is my new favorite author of 2020, and this is a nice, lighter romantic read.
The Nightingale - A historical fiction set in WWII and one of our most favorites of all time.
Fun Category: Here are some fun stocking stuffers (kind of) that anyone should be thrilled to receive.
Starbucks gift card - No one will ever turn down coffee! And those chocolate croissants aren't too bad either.
Corksicle - Best cup ever. I got one of these for my birthday this year and now I"m obsessed.
Loungewear - A fun robe has been my quarantine dress code this year.
Peloton - Ok, I know. We hear about them all the time and there's a big price tag, but with the financing options, it's so worth it. Total fitness game changer. Use code UFSYCC for a free accessory package! If you get this for a significant other, brownie points forever.
For even more gift ideas (or to just see what I am eyeing and buying) check out our Amazon Storefront!
