Besides obtaining my Bachelors, what other steps can I take now to make myself more attractive to a PA program?

malinda,

i've been a family physician for 20 years.

here's my biased advice for you. it's biased in that i think in terms of a PA working alongside a physician. but keep in mind that this is not always the case these days.

also, i'm not in any way familiar with PA school admissions. so i'm going to change your question to how to make yourself appealing to a future employer.

i strongly recommend that you get training and then work as a Medical Scribe. there's a strong need for college students & pre-meds. it'll help you understand what goes into documentation, what docs need from their staff, and how to use an electronic medical record.

secondly, sharpen your verbal & written communication skills. many docs are nitpickers when it comes to grammar and spelling. also, having a second language would make you a star.

lastly, "specialize" in something. maybe you have a relative with a severe disease. learn all you can about that. some other potential niches: addiction. end-of-life care. prenatal care, depression, obesity medications. etc.

good luck!

I would check entrance requirements because I know years ago they required a certain number of hours experience in the medical field as a part of entrance requirements. Many students did this by working as a CNA, MA or EMT ( certification programs at local JC usually).