Duke Physician Assistant Program Admissions Blog
Over the past several months, we have discussed how you can plan a path to PA school that works for you. Once you have decided whether or not to take a gap year, and plotted out the course work needed at various schools, you should be cognizant of the fact that ultimately, admissions committees want to learn who you are. Most applicants meet or exceed the prerequisite requirements, but what makes interviewers want to meet YOU?
We queried some of our seasoned committee members and asked them the ultimate question, “what makes an applicant stand out to you?”
Patient Care Experience
While most schools have some sort of hours requirement, ultimately, what they are all trying to learn is if you are ready and comfortable interacting with a patient population. How you talk about your patients is very important. Acknowledging social determinates as key factors in caring for patients shows you are ready to step into any clinical environment and do well. Conveying kindness and empathy is also very important. Are you giving patient care because you truly want to help others, or are you doing it to check off a box on a PA application? Being patient-centered is key.
Knowledge about the PA Profession
Shadow PAs if possible; but if not, make sure you research what a PA does on a daily basis. Admissions representatives want to know that you are aware of what lies ahead; and more so, that you embrace it.
Goal Oriented
Showing that you have considered what happens after PA school is also very helpful. Admissions representatives want to know that you have a well thought out plan. You will be asked this question a thousand times, “Why PA?” Form your answer now. It may change and grow, but having an answer will keep you on the path to success. One admissions representative put it this way,
“Applicants who are able to clearly communicate that they are self-aware, goal-oriented, and have enough knowledge of the PA profession to know what kind of avenues this education opens for them… applicants that tell me what they are going to do not what they have done get me excited. “
Life Experience
Many supplemental applications ask you to discuss a life experience that shaped you. This question is your chance to let the admissions committee really know you. Seeing how you approach this question helps us learn who you are. What do you value? What makes you, You? Write this narrative and then ask yourself, “would I want to meet me after reading that?” If so, you are on the right track.
Flexibility
PA school is difficult. Programs want to know that you will be able to adapt to an ever changing environment. They also want to see that you won’t angst over one test grade or one assignment. Talking about how you have been able to remain flexible in your work or studies can help reviewers see that you will be able to navigate the ups and downs of PA school.
Mission Alignment
Visit PA websites and get to know the different programs. Pay close attention to the school’s mission statement. The core values of the program should fit with your career goals. Admissions committee members are on the lookout for this.
We hope that you keep these tips in mind as you prepare to apply to PA school. Good luck!
The Duke Physician Assistant Program Admissions Blog presents information based on the experiences of Duke PA Program staff and faculty. While the information provided is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication, requirements can change. Please visit the Duke PA Program website for the most up-to-date information.