Have You Heard Your Going To PA School – Congratulations!
Going To PA School - Get Ready
"The Best Thing About PA School Getting In and Getting Out!"
– Mrs. Gemina Gates, PA
Hey there, future Physician Associates! Mrs. Gemina Gates, a proud PA, once said, “The Best Thing About PA School: Getting In and Getting Out!” I couldn’t agree more.
Now, let’s dive into the unfiltered truth about the PA school experience, the journey to that desired WHITE COAT, and what it really takes to succeed.
FIRST…PA School was HELL! And let’s not sugarcoat it – you’ll know exhaustion like never before.
Picture this: studying around the clock, surviving on minimal sleep, and still having to handle basic human necessities like eating, showering, and maintaining a semblance of home life. You will have class from 8am-5pm or 9am-9pm, and taking multiple exams in one day or within the week.
Traveling far for clinical rotations, working overnight shifts in GYN or ER, 5am shifts in Surgery, studying End of Rotation exams, and working your thesis for research paper and the dreaded Epidemiology (sorry, those who love it, but I couldn’t stand that class).
It's a challenge, but it's also a badge of honor.
Let’s get real about the daily grind. Emotions will be all over the place. There will be days when you’re on cloud nine, acing exams, and feeling invincible.
But, oh boy, there will also be those days when exhaustion, stress, and doubt tag team you. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions – happy, sad, broke, angry, and doubtful, all at the same DAMN TIME!
Would I do it again? HELL NO!
Any PA would say the same.
Ya couldn’t pay me enough (unless all bills and tuition were covered AND I had someone to cook food for me daily).
BUT am I happy I did it and happy with my life…ABSOLUTELY!!
Explaining the experience of PA school can be difficult because you may only really understand it once you start the process. But I am here to give you the information from an honest place that is vital for you to know.
Age Ain't Nothin But A Number
First things first, PA school isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey. Whether you’re a fresh-faced 22-year-old or a seasoned 60-year-old, the age range in your class will blow your mind.
And guess what? That’s the beauty of it. You’ll find yourself surrounded by individuals with diverse life and work experiences, which will vary wildly.
From the carefree 20-somethings to the seasoned professionals in their 40s and 50s, everyone brings something unique to the table. Are you single with no kids, a single parent, happily married, or juggling a family? Whatever your story, PA school will be a chapter like no other.
My PA class consisted of all ages and races, which was great because everyone had something to bring to the table, such as study habits and memorizing information or using outside resources to study.
My best friends in PA school were single mothers, married with children, living far away from family, or in long-term relationships. They all made it through PA school and are all successful.
Non-traditional PA Students
Now, for the non-traditional students out there, fret not. The worry about making the right decisions, especially with or without medical experience or at an older age, is real.
But let me tell you, every path is valid. Your journey may differ, but the goal remains the same – that desired WHITE COAT.
I was a non-traditional PA student. I did not pursue becoming a Physician Associate after completing my undergraduate degree. To get the full story, click here.
The journey is intense, but it’s finite. Your WHITE COAT is waiting at the end of the tunnel. It’s a symbol of your hard work, resilience, and commitment.
So, future PAs, buckle up for the ride of a lifetime. Embrace the chaos, learn from the lows, and celebrate the highs. Because when you finally put on that WHITE COAT, you’ll know it was all worth it.
This is your journey, your story, and your time to shine in the world of Physician Associates.
Best of luck, and enjoy the ride!👏🏾
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