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Madalynn
Student
Speedway, Indiana
1
Question
Updated
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How do I know which school is right for me?
One of the schools I've been accepted to is direct admit into the PA program, but it's not my number one choice. I'm not sure what to major in at other schools in order to apply for their PA programs.
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2 answers
Kathleen Nieman
Sr. Systems Analyst
7
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Kathleen’s Answer
I'll try to answer your question. Think about why your top school is your first choice and why other schools aren't as appealing. Understanding what makes your favorite school stand out might help you decide. Also, consider how committed you are to becoming a physician assistant. This program focuses on one path, which might limit exploring other fields you could be passionate about. Have you done any volunteer work related to this field? Have you spoken with any PAs about what they enjoy and what challenges they face in their job? You might also ask them about their educational journey to becoming a PA. If you're considering other majors, a PA usually studies science-related subjects like biology or microbiology. Many universities allow prospective students to speak with current students or department heads about their programs.
Michelle M.
Actress
3276
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hi, Madalynn !
Being a Physician Assistant is a very exciting, wonderful career !
First, you do have your Bachelors Degree, right ? Secondly, you didn't mention why the direct admit college is not your first choice. Is it the travel distance ? The campus ? The curriculum ? The reason needs to be important because direct admit is a great benefit. You won't have to wait around to get accepted.
So, the alternative is to apply to your first choice college's Physician Assistant Program and wait to hear if you're accepted.
Getting back to your academic path for this, you first need your Bachelors Degree in a life science, something like Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy, etc. You do not "major" in a Physician Assistant Program, the program is the physician assistant path. I have worked with PA students at Marist University (formerly known as Marist College) and Boston University doing simulation work for them, so I am familiar with the path/academics. I will be honest with you, all of the PA programs are good.
The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant is the governing body responsible for accrediting Physician Assistant programs. The programs are usually very similar across the board because you all have to learn the same things. There are high standards for PA programs and the programs are regularly evaluated for quality and educational standards, So they're all good.
So take a bit of time to weigh out what would be in your best interest. It may be better to start your Physician Assistant program very soon after your Bachelors Degree because the knowledge would be fresh in your mind and the continuum will help give you the right vibe for the transition to learning how to be a PA. It's up to you, however, and no one can make that choice for you.
Remember that you obtain your Bachelors Degree in a life science first, THEN you enroll in a PA Program. You should contact the admissions office to verify this information so that you know the steps towards the academics and the career. If you get the information in person, they can provide the correct guidance according to where you're at in the process.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Being a Physician Assistant is a very exciting, wonderful career !
First, you do have your Bachelors Degree, right ? Secondly, you didn't mention why the direct admit college is not your first choice. Is it the travel distance ? The campus ? The curriculum ? The reason needs to be important because direct admit is a great benefit. You won't have to wait around to get accepted.
So, the alternative is to apply to your first choice college's Physician Assistant Program and wait to hear if you're accepted.
Getting back to your academic path for this, you first need your Bachelors Degree in a life science, something like Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy, etc. You do not "major" in a Physician Assistant Program, the program is the physician assistant path. I have worked with PA students at Marist University (formerly known as Marist College) and Boston University doing simulation work for them, so I am familiar with the path/academics. I will be honest with you, all of the PA programs are good.
The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant is the governing body responsible for accrediting Physician Assistant programs. The programs are usually very similar across the board because you all have to learn the same things. There are high standards for PA programs and the programs are regularly evaluated for quality and educational standards, So they're all good.
So take a bit of time to weigh out what would be in your best interest. It may be better to start your Physician Assistant program very soon after your Bachelors Degree because the knowledge would be fresh in your mind and the continuum will help give you the right vibe for the transition to learning how to be a PA. It's up to you, however, and no one can make that choice for you.
Remember that you obtain your Bachelors Degree in a life science first, THEN you enroll in a PA Program. You should contact the admissions office to verify this information so that you know the steps towards the academics and the career. If you get the information in person, they can provide the correct guidance according to where you're at in the process.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !