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If I do not have a great history in mathematics is a physician's assistant a viable option for me?
I have not historically been interested or successful in the field of mathematics, but a career in dermatology interests me. I do not want to invest to be a dermatologist but to assist.
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Vanesa’s Answer
Hi Charlotte!
I would say you still have great potential to be a physician's assistant even though you don't have a great history with math.
First, there's always a way. I know that you've heard that before, but it's really true. Develop and/or strengthen a growth mindset. Focus on what you're already doing. For example, you are determined and curious enough to write to forum such as this. That takes effort and courage! And effort is what is needed to strengthen your mathematic skills.
My bachelor's degree is in public health. Some of my classmates were using that degree to go on to pursue a master's to become physician's assistants.
I was never great at math. I took algebra I twice in high school and had to get tutors for math during my bachelor's. I am now a licensed mental health provider and getting my doctorate degree.
Just take one step at a time and you'll be amazed at where you get!
I would say you still have great potential to be a physician's assistant even though you don't have a great history with math.
First, there's always a way. I know that you've heard that before, but it's really true. Develop and/or strengthen a growth mindset. Focus on what you're already doing. For example, you are determined and curious enough to write to forum such as this. That takes effort and courage! And effort is what is needed to strengthen your mathematic skills.
My bachelor's degree is in public health. Some of my classmates were using that degree to go on to pursue a master's to become physician's assistants.
I was never great at math. I took algebra I twice in high school and had to get tutors for math during my bachelor's. I am now a licensed mental health provider and getting my doctorate degree.
Just take one step at a time and you'll be amazed at where you get!
Thank you so much for the advice.
Charlotte
Updated
Kess’s Answer
Hi, Charlotte!
Great question. A lot of people struggle in mathematics. I know that I did! Double-check what the PA schools require. Some may not require too high of maths. And there are some work-arounds. For example, my school required me to take a college-level statistics class. My local community college had a class called Medical Statistics. It was a bit easier and used more realistic examples.
Great question. A lot of people struggle in mathematics. I know that I did! Double-check what the PA schools require. Some may not require too high of maths. And there are some work-arounds. For example, my school required me to take a college-level statistics class. My local community college had a class called Medical Statistics. It was a bit easier and used more realistic examples.
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
Hi Charlotte,
Yes, math is important to be a physician assistant or to learn any of the sciences, but you will have so many tools to help you. As a physician assistant (PA), I have access to so many medical calculators online, including ones that help me with accurate medication dosing, understanding lab values and tracking someone's health conditions over long periods of time.
If you have the desire, I have no doubt you can make a career as a PA. Your ability to learn and understand math may be different from others, and it may take a little more work on your part, but there are great tutors and other support groups available to help you along the way. And, I'm sure, you have other great strengths that will help you become an excellent PA.
I wish you great success in whatever you pursue!
Yes, math is important to be a physician assistant or to learn any of the sciences, but you will have so many tools to help you. As a physician assistant (PA), I have access to so many medical calculators online, including ones that help me with accurate medication dosing, understanding lab values and tracking someone's health conditions over long periods of time.
If you have the desire, I have no doubt you can make a career as a PA. Your ability to learn and understand math may be different from others, and it may take a little more work on your part, but there are great tutors and other support groups available to help you along the way. And, I'm sure, you have other great strengths that will help you become an excellent PA.
I wish you great success in whatever you pursue!
Updated
Chelita’s Answer
Yes but make sure you have a medical background as well.