From Mock Interviews to PA Practice: Tolu Fannon Shares Her Journey

In this virtual shadowing Q&A, Deanna Matson from The PA Life sits down with Tolu Fannin, a practicing physician assistant/associate who has gone from being a pre-PA student utilizing mock interviews to prepare for PA school, to now serving as a mock interviewer herself to help the next generation of aspiring PAs.

Tolu openly shares her experiences and advice gained throughout her journey.

Key takeaways from the interview include:

The importance of gaining quality patient care experience before applying to PA school. Tolu worked as a paramedic and ER tech to gain hands-on clinical experience.
Tips for selecting a PA program that aligns with your goals, such as going to school where you ultimately want to practice and considering factors like cost and program resources.
Study strategies for the didactic year include explaining concepts to classmates, finding a good note-taking system, and dedicating time to studying like a full-time job.
The benefits and challenges of clinical rotations, from great preceptors that lead to job offers, to learning to adapt to different practice styles and personalities.
Tolu's experience working in primary care out of school and her recent transition to urology, a specialty she loves for the mix of clinic and procedures.
Financing PA school through loans, and options like loan repayment programs for those who go into public service.
Advice for pre-PAs on finding shadowing opportunities, gaining volunteer hours, and spacing out challenging science prerequisites.

Throughout the conversation, Tolu emphasizes the importance of remembering your "why" for becoming a PA, having grace with yourself through the ups and downs of the journey, and recognizing that while the path isn't always smooth, it is incredibly worthwhile. Her words will resonate with and inspire pre-PAs and practicing PAs alike.

Check out the video above to see the full interview. If you're preparing to apply to PA school, you can even book a mock interview or consulting session with Tolu herself! No matter where you are in your journey, Tolu's story illustrates the exciting opportunities ahead.

Book Consultation with Tolu Fannon:

Pre-PA Consulting and Advising

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Stephen Pasquini PA-C Physician Assistant

Stephen has been a family practice PA since 2004 and is the creator of The PA Life, Smarty PANCE Board Review, and PASchoolfinder websites. A National Health Service Corps Scholar and a graduate of The University of Medicine and Dentistry of NJ (Rutgers) PA Program and the University of Washington in Seattle, WA. Stephen's goal is to provide one-of-a-kind online resources for those interested in or practicing in the PA profession, to promote better access to healthcare for all, and to foster universal recognition/awareness of the PA profession. Read more about Stephen.

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Physician Assistant Physician Associate CASPA Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) Physician Assistant National Recertifying Examination (PANRE) PA School Interviews PA School Admissions PA School Personal Statements

Webinar: Crafting Your Best PA School Personal Statement

Hosted by Stephen Pasquini PA-C, Deanna Matzen

About this webinar Are you applying to PA school but worried about writing a compelling personal statement that will grab the admissions committee’s attention? Do you want to learn the secrets of crafting a PA school essay that stands out from the crowd and showcases your personality, motivation, and fit for PA school? If so, then you don’t want to miss our webinar on Crafting Your Best PA School Personal Statement. In this webinar, you will learn the following: What a personal statement is and how schools use them. You will understand the purpose and expectations of writing a personal statement and how schools use this information during the admission process. What to do before you start writing. You will learn how to prepare and organize your thoughts, research, and brainstorm your strengths and achievements. A successful structure for your personal statement. You will learn how to craft a clear, coherent, and compelling narrative that showcases your personality, motivation, and fit for their program. Common mistakes to avoid. You will learn how to polish your personal statement and avoid errors that could undermine your credibility or impact. By joining this webinar, you will gain valuable insights and tips on how to write a personal statement that increases your chances of admission to your desired PA school. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and get feedback from our experienced PA school coaches. Don’t miss this chance to learn how to write your best PA school personal statement. Register now and secure your spot for this webinar. You won’t regret it!