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You are here: Home / Pre-Physician Assistant / The Pre-PA Advisor Series: Patient Contact Hours and Healthcare Experience

The Pre-PA Advisor Series: Patient Contact Hours and Healthcare Experience

April 2, 2018 By Stephen Pasquini PA-C 16 Comments

PA SCHOOL ADMISSION ADVICE PATIENT CONTACT HOURS

The Pre-PA Advisor Series

Welcome to the PA Advisors Series - a special series of posts where PA school applicants like yourself ask the tough questions and admissions directors from top-ranking PA schools provide the answers.

The Pre-PA Advisor Series

Posts in the series

  1. Applying to PA School with a Low PA
  2. Prerequisite Requirements for PA School
  3. Patient Contact Hours and Healthcare Experience (you are here)
  4. The GRE and PA School

Today We Will Discuss: Patient Contact Hours and Healthcare Experience Requirements for PA School

Here are some of the questions answered in this post:

  • Does work as a medical scribe count towards healthcare experience hours?
  • How many healthcare experience hours are considered competitive in today's PA school applicant pool?
  • Does taking care of a family member count as healthcare experience? Does working as an interpreter count towards patient care experience?
  • Do patient care experience hours ever expire?
  • Do applicants applying straight out of undergrad have a disadvantage to students who have worked for a few years after graduating?
  • Are healthcare experience hours counted only up to the time of application, or are they projected forward until matriculation?
  • If I have fewer HCE hours than the average accepted applicant, do I still have a shot at acceptance?
  • What are the best forms of HCE for PA programs?
  • Would someone who is an RN be chosen before someone who is a CNA?
  • Do my HCE hours in high school count?
  • Do volunteer hours worked internationally count towards HCE?
  • Could my 7 years of working/volunteering at Planned Parenthood be seen in a negative light?

PRE-PA Q&A

Keywords: You can click on any of the following keywords to be taken directly to that topic. I have highlighted important points and included a summary of key recommendations at the end of this post.

Medical technologist, research experience, taking care of a family member, scribe, behavioral health, paramedics, medical interpreter, physical therapy aid, special needs assistant, expiration date, certified athletic trainer, medical laboratory scientist, shadowing, gap year, shadowing, athletic-training, global health work, pharmacy technician, medical device company, Planned Parenthood.

PRE-PA QUESTION: I have been a medical technologist in a hospital for two years will this count as clinical experience?

Admissions response: If you had hands-on patient contact then yes we consider it as clinical experience. - A.T. Still University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Currently, I have volunteer medical experience as well as research experience. I am curious if one type of healthcare experience outweighs another (For example, MA vs. ED scribe)? Additionally, will I be at a disadvantage if I will be accumulating these hours over the next year as I plan to apply for 2018?

Admissions response: Clinical experiences that involve hands-on patient care can be more beneficial than a hands-off experience. Remember you can only put acquired hours on the application, do not list planned hours. We like to see these experiences spread out - as in not all done in a month or two - so if you spend the next year working on this that is okay. - A.T. Still University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Hi, how many hours of PA work experience is needed before applying to the school and before applying to CASPA? And what specific type of work experience?

Admissions response: We do not require clinical experience, although significant clinical experience is a benefit to the application. We do want to see a minimum of 100 shadowing hours though. You should list all of your work experience, if we don't know about it we can't evaluate it. Even if it is not medically related it can show leadership, maturity, time management, and motivation. - A.T. Still University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Do applicants receive a higher consideration if they have more than the required minimum clinical experience?

Admissions response: Clinical experience (hands-on) is not required. If you have significant hands-on clinical (1000+ hours) that is a benefit. We do want to see at least 100 shadowing hours. - A.T. Still University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Can taking care of a family member who is a stroke victim be considered hands-on experience even if you don't work for a company or receive documented pay, or could it be considered volunteer?

Admissions response: Taking care of a family member is not really clinical experience. You can mention it and talk about the clinical care you provided, but it's not really what we are looking for. (Although you should take care of your family ) - A.T. Still University

PRE-PA QUESTION: I've been offered a variety of patient care positions and was curious if one would look better on my application over the others. The positions include scribe, medical assistant, and specimen collector. I would love the feedback, thanks!

Admissions response: Any time you get more direct patient care that is a benefit. So medical assistant or specimen collector would give you direct patient care, while medical scribe is more observational. - A.T. Still University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Does your program consider a full-time medical scribe position for a senior physician sufficient enough for those requirements?

Admissions response: Medical Scribe is one of those gray areas in that it provides exposure but is not really hands-on clinical. It's a mixture of shadowing and clinical. So yes list it but do not rely on it alone. Be specific about your job responsibilities and it would also be a good idea to have some additional true shadowing of other practitioners. - A.T. Still University

Admissions response: Scribe does count for us. It does not count for some schools. I would try to get at least some more traditional patient care to round it out. - Duke University

Admissions response: All scribe hours will count for us. But make sure to describe the job responsibilities fully, as the direct patient care will make that position stronger - Duke University

Admissions response: Yes, medical scribe does count towards HCE. - Yale University

Admissions response: Yes scribe hours satisfy our requirement - Penn State University

Admissions response: As a medical scribe, we are looking for direct hands-on patient care experience. Although we do not consider medical scribe generally for HCE. - Case Western Reserve

Admissions response: If you were a scribe with meaningful patient interaction then please describe that on the application in detail for Admissions Committee consideration. - Case Western Reserve

Admissions response: Medical scribe will fulfill our HCE requirement IF, you have direct patient contact. You cannot just be sitting in the room typing for the medical provider. You need to be active in the room with the patient, asking them questions and interacting with the patients. We would not count it as HCE experience if you were just passively sitting in the room charting info obtained by the medical provider.

PRE-PA QUESTION: I have about 3,500 hours as a medical scribe, and a bit less ~ 500 hours as a hospice volunteer- which I understand is sometimes perceived as more "direct" contact. Do the Yale Admissions see the medical scribe HCE as less advantageous in any way, or is it looked at favorably due to involvement in medical decision making, etc.?

Admissions response: The admissions committee takes a holistic approach to reviewing all applications, including patient care hours. I can tell you that volunteer hours are important. 500 hours as a hospice volunteer is terrific! Good for you. - Yale University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Would work in behavioral health count towards patient care hours?

Admissions response: It depends on the situation. List it on the application and be very specific about the job responsibilities. If you administered medications, checked vitals, or things of that nature we would probably consider it clinical. If it was more observational or supportive, we would most likely not consider it clinical. - A.T. Still University

PRE-PA QUESTION: I worked at a sleep-away summer camp with the title being "Health Center Coordinator," and the job consisted of assisting an RN with caring for sick campers at all hours of the day, aiding campers in taking medications, etc.

Admissions response: This would be considered a lower level patient care experience. The admissions committee would rather see a slightly more advanced level of patient care experience. - Yale University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Are Paramedics highly valued in regards to work experience?

Admissions response: Paramedics would be considered good work experience, just like EMT, CNA, Phlebotomist, Med Asst. - A.T. Still University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Do you consider interpreting in the ER as healthcare experience

Admissions response: We do accept interpreter work - Duke University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Because healthcare hours are not required, will a background in healthcare be considered along with my academic transcripts?

Admissions response: It can certainly inform your discernment and help round out your CV and personal statement. But it doesn't give you a "boost" beyond that. - Butler University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Does working as a CNA count as HCE hours?

Admissions response: Working as a CNA is great patient care experience - Duke University

PRE-PA QUESTION: How does working as a physical therapy (PT) aid look on a transcript? And what is the best thing I can do to better my chances of getting into PA school?

Admissions response: PT aide is fine patient care experience. Just make sure you address why you want to be a PA in your essay. - Duke University

PRE-PA QUESTION: I am working as an EEG tech and an EKG tech. I also work at a doctor's office doing EEGs there and VNGs. Would these jobs be considered good clinical experience?

Admissions response: Yes these would be considered good clinical experiences - A.T. Still University

PRE-PA QUESTION: I've worked as a special needs assistant for five years, where I would work directly with children with cerebral palsy, autism, and Down's syndrome and help build communication, cognitive and behavioral skills. Is that considered as HCE?

Admissions response: This is great patient care experience! - Duke University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Is there an expiration date on patient care hours?

Admissions response: We do not have an expiration on patient care. However, having some more recent is good, or else a clear explanation of why you have not been working in patient care. - Duke University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Would work as a certified athletic trainer count as PCE?

Admissions response: An athletic trainer does count - Duke University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Would experience in medical records/health information management count toward the 1000 hour requirement?

Admissions response: Medical records/health information management experience does not count unless you had hands-on patient contact. - Duke University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Would work as a medical laboratory scientist with phlebotomy experience count towards HCE?

Admissions response: The medical lab scientist might be a stretch in terms of experience, you would need to demonstrate in your description how that position had direct patient contact. - Yale University

PRE-PA QUESTION: I graduated undergrad in 2008. I joined the Army as a Combat Medic. I worked with MDs and PAs at different duty stations providing care for soldiers and their families. Does my experience count as care hours? If it does, how should I document the hours for multiple healthcare providers?

Admissions response: Combat medics were our founding fathers! Excellent work. You are on the honor system for counting hours. we ask you to report beginning and end dates and # hours per week - Duke University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Do the 1,000 hours of patient care experience include shadowing/observation hours?

Admissions response: Shadowing is important but does not count towards the 1000 hours. - Duke University

PRE-PA QUESTION: I worked in a research lab conducting clinical studies. Would the responsibilities be the deciding factor on whether it would be considered PCE or HCE?

Admissions response: Research depends on whether or not you had direct patient care. Taking vitals, getting consents, drawing blood, that sort of thing - Duke University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Will I be at a disadvantage applying as a college senior even if I obtain at least 1000 hours of direct patient contact?

Admissions response: College seniors are mostly at a disadvantage in regards to clinical hours. 1000 is our minimum, and we definitely have people get in with that. But more is better. - Duke University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Do you recommend applicants take a gap year before applying? I have been an EMT for three years now, but am nervous applying with less than 3,000 care hours.

Admissions response: A gap year certainly does not hurt. However, if you meet all the requirements, you can go ahead and apply. We do not frown at reapplicants. - Duke University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Would you say a student straight out of undergrad with only hours accumulated during summer break to meet the requirement of 1,000 PCE have a disadvantage to students who have worked for a few years after graduating?

Admissions response: Frequently yes. Mostly just because they don't have as many patient care experience hours as they would need to truly be competitive. But we definitely accept some straight out of undergrad students each year! - Duke University

PRE-PA QUESTION: My job title would be sitter/observer at the hospital towards psych patients, worked on all floors of the hospital from ED to the psych ward. The title of my job does not do a good job explaining what I truly do; I help nurses with the bedside work, vitals, assist eating, and washroom guidance. So my question here is when you guys see "sitter" only, will there be a spot where I can actually write what I do so it is not mistaken for not real PCE. I hope this is clear.

Admissions response: I think this good experience, and you can definitely reflect on that in your essay. At Butler, we don't require patient care experience...so I wouldn't sweat that too much as far as whether it'll count. Just focus on summarizing this as best you can.

PRE-PA QUESTION: What kind of experiences do you like your applicants to have?

Admissions response: We do not have set expectations for healthcare experience, shadowing, etc. No requirements to that point. - Butler University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Are healthcare experience hours counted only up to the time of application, or are they projected forward until matriculation?

Admissions response: We count healthcare hours only at the time of application, not projected hours. - Yale University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Back in the 80s during my high school summers, I worked as an orthodontic chairside assistant (clipping arch-wires in and out, tying in archwires or "tightening braces," cementing molar bands, taking impressions, preparing teeth for bonding-- that sort of thing). Would this count as "direct patient experience" or "related healthcare experience?"

Admissions response: Yes, this would be patient care experience - Yale University

PRE-PA QUESTION: I have just over 1,000 hours of healthcare experience as a clinician aide in a family practice setting. Seeing that the average accepted student has 2,264 hours, will this make me very uncompetitive?

Admissions response: The Admissions Committee evaluates a candidate's entire application, so even though you have less than our average incoming student hours please don't let that discourage you from applying. - Yale University

PRE-PA QUESTION: I just recently started a medical scribe job full time in April and will be doing so until I would leave for the program if I got in. Do you suggest waiting until I have so many hours to apply initially? Or just apply and update the school monthly with updated hours?

Admissions response: My suggestion is to wait until you are as competitive as you can be to apply while still balancing program deadlines. - Penn State

PRE-PA QUESTION: I was wondering how significant of a factor the healthcare experience plays on an application. I currently have my CNA certification, but I am having a hard time getting a job at a hospital, and due to a clerical error, my license was delayed by 2.5 months. So I sadly have fewer HCE hours than I expected going into the application. Still, I have a high GPA, GRE scores, and wonderful experience in doing research in a neuroscience lab.

Admissions response: Healthcare experience absolutely plays a part in our holistic review, however, you will see from our class profiles online that candidates are admitted having just met the minimum 500 to those who have been in their field for 10-15 years. - Penn State

PRE-PA QUESTION: I have about 250 hours of direct patient contact hours and will be beginning to work as a nursing assistant in May. I will not have all of the required hours completed before submitting my application. Do you make it a priority to look at additions to the application as well as additional information sent directly to the program?

Admissions response: With thousands of applicants, I recommend limiting updates. While we will add updates to an applicant's file my advice is to submit your CASPA application when you feel you are as competitive as you can be while still minding program deadlines. - Penn Sate

PRE-PA QUESTION: I am a volunteer EMT who works directly with patients and I am working as a nurse's aide. Can both hours be considered PCE or would the volunteer EMT hours be considered as volunteer hours?

Admissions response: Yes, both hours should be listed as patient care. I simply would advise to not duplicate hours in multiple sections such as volunteer EMT

PRE-PA QUESTION: In terms of health care experience before applying, is it better to have volunteer hours or work hours?

Admissions response: With regard to hours, direct patient experience is most preferred but volunteer hours also have value as well. - Penn State

PRE-PA QUESTION: How heavily do you take into account healthcare experience? I have obtained over 4,000 hours of HCE and hope it will pay off in the end!

Admissions response: We definitely look at experience, however, if academics are not strong, it doesn't reflect highly on the applicant. Faculty are more interested in direct patient care experience, as compared to general healthcare experience. - Toro University

PRE-PA QUESTION: Prior to graduating college, I worked at a cardiology office 3 days a week for over 2 years

Admissions response: Cardiology most likely will not count toward direct patient care. Shadowing, unfortunately, does not count either. Some of the clinical experience required can be gained from professions such as EMT, Paramedic, Nurse, CNA, ER Tech, and Physical Therapy Aid. - Marist College

PRE-PA QUESTION: I have 500 hours done because I am also an EMT, but does it look better to apply with more hours?

Admissions response: Yes, it will. Although 500 is the minimum, we usually get applicants with closer to 1,000. The program is very competitive so If you have the opportunity to acquire more hours then I would say do that prior to submitting - Marist College

PRE-PA QUESTION: I am a medical scribe for 4 different doctors at a children's hospital. Would my hours there count towards direct patient care? I interview the patient for symptoms etc. and am present with the doctors for all exams?

Admissions response: As a scribe, these hours will not count toward direct patient care. - Marist College

PRE-PA QUESTION: I have shadowed an ED doctor and gynecology for over 600 hours will that count toward DPC

Admissions response: Sorry but shadowing does not count toward the direct patient hands-on care for the PA program. - Marist College

PRE-PA QUESTION: I have 2,500 hours as a PT aide from 2008-2010 and 200 recent hours in the last year. Will the older hours count?

Admissions response: Yes, all of your hours worked as a physical therapy aid will count towards patient care experience. - Marist College

PRE-PA QUESTION: Does one on one health counseling as a health coach count as HCE?

Admissions response: We classify direct patient care hours as: Functioning within a health care team, at the level to which you have been trained. This includes direct one-on-one care of patients and development of skills that include communication, trust building, and being comfortable working within a patient's personal space. We accept a wide range of direct patient care experience: radiology technician, respiratory therapist, cardiovascular therapist, paramedic, EMT, CNA, patient care technician/assistant, medical assistant, PT aide, phlebotomist to name a few. Shadowing and Internships as part of school-based training does not qualify as direct care experience. - Marist College

PRE-PA QUESTION: I am at an undergrad college now for my athletic training degree and I have completed about 1,000 direct patient care hours for the AT program where I worked in the athletic training clinic would all of this count?  I have been seeing that some colleges prefer paid hours is that the case with this program?

Admissions response: Your athletic training experience does count but not the hours spent as a student in training. Paid hours vs non-paid is not the determination. Rather its the level of responsibility you are allowed as a  volunteer. Some free clinics etc will allow volunteers to be quite involved whereas large hospitals may not. - Carroll University

PRE-PA QUESTION: I worked with patients with a wide range of mental and physical disabilities, kids, and adults. My responsibilities included passing medications, cooking meals/feeding, toileting, assisting with ADL's, transportation, documenting changes in care with other staff, and in some cases assisted with speech or occupational therapy.

Admissions response: Those hours would be considered a more low-quality type. We count direct patient care hours as functioning within a health care team, at the level to which you have been trained. This includes direct one-on-one care of patients and development of skills that include communication, trust building, and being comfortable working within a patient's personal space. We accept a wide range of direct patient care experience: radiology technician, respiratory therapist, cardiovascular therapist, paramedic, EMT, CNA, patient care technician/assistant, medical assistant, PT aide, phlebotomist to name a few. Shadowing and Internships as part of school-based training does not qualify as direct care experience - Marist College

PRE-PA QUESTION: I am currently about to take a course for Clinical Medical Assistant. I worry that it's not as "hands-on" as say an EMT or CNA/RN, but my options are very limited here. Furthermore, I'd likely end up having to do it as a volunteer on base, instead of a paid capacity. Any thoughts on whether this will suffice?

Admissions response: The direct care experience can be gained through volunteerism. The issue can be with how involved in care you are allowed to be as a volunteer. That varies quite a bit. The more involved, the better, right! - Carroll University

Admissions response: One area of competition is direct care. So many candidates have a variety of direct care experiences which offers more information about working within a treatment team and possibly with a variety of patients. - Carroll University

PRE-PA QUESTION: I am currently completing an internship in Germany as a nursing intern. I take vitals, assist in examinations under supervision, help distribute medications, and also help with documentation. Would this fall under the category of patient care experience on the application or would this be classified under healthcare experience?

Admissions response: Since you are an intern, we would consider it health-related experience. - Carroll University

PRE-PA QUESTION: What kind of experience do you look for in applicants?

Admissions response: We definitely look at your patient care experience- that is a requirement- and what you have been doing such as was it as a CRNA or a volunteer? What kind of work did you do? We also look at your work in community service - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: Since graduating in 2014, I've been working at hospitals as well as a private practice as an assistant/researcher. I've also been volunteering at various hospitals.

Admissions response: That sounds like great experience - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: Does being a student EMT hours count or only certified EMT hours count?

Admissions response: Only certified EMT hours count toward our HCE hours. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: What are the best forms of HCE for the PA program?

Admissions response: We like to see CRNA, MA, mental health counselor, social worker, rad tech, anyone with direct hands-on patient care experience. Please see our website for a longer list. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: Can you tell us what HCE is used for as an indicator of success and why CWRU sees it as an important application requirement?

Admissions response: We strongly believe that HCE is a predictor of success because it readies the student for the clinical environment, introduces them to pathophysiology, and prepares them for the rigor of our program and the demands and high standard of our didactic and clinical years. We have our students seeing patients early in our program, and working out in the community with patients right up front so it is important that our students have grounding in the healthcare field before they come. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: I wanted to know if the 1,000 patient care hours have to be completed at the time I submit my application?

Admissions response: Yes, the 1000 hours need to be completed at the time of submission. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: Hi, is there an expiration on HCE? I have 2,500 hours from 2008-2010

Admissions response: We have a ten year limit on HCE prerequisites so those should be ok. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: Do you prefer medical experience working at a primary care facility over a specialty clinic?

Admissions response: While we strongly value primary care experiences and in general, we look at the quality of the experience itself regardless of the setting.  - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: I currently work as a registered behavior therapist running applied behavior analysis programs for autistic kids. While this doesn't fall under the traditional definition of clinical care, would this still be considered medical experience by your program?

Admissions response: Absolutely! You are working with autistic children in a therapeutic context, absolutely wonderful. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: As for HCE, do you weigh the different healthcare positions greater than others? I.e., Would someone who is an RN be chosen before someone who is a CNA?

Admissions response: They are scored differently but not THAT differently as to greatly enhance or deter your chances of being considered for an interview. It's merely added to a composite score which has many component parts. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: Do you consider military experience? I am a medic with the US Army Reserves and have been so since 2013. I also have EMT-Basic licensure.

Admissions response: Medic in the military?!!! That's fantastic and absolutely counts 100%. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: I have had a little bit of experience volunteering at a hospital while I was in high school, does this count as well?

Admissions response: High school shadowing and HCE experiences are generally not considered. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: I went to Honduras this past December for a medical brigade and will be going to Ghana this December as well. I was wondering if this International experience can be recorded as patient care experience.

Admissions response: If you were working as a medical tech, nurses aide, etc while you were in Honduras then yes, if it was volunteer work, then it would count as volunteer work. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: I was wondering how many HCE hours the average accepted applicant to the program has? I have a pretty solid GPA, and I meet the minimum HCE requirements, but I will have around 1500 when I apply so not too much past the requirement. I am wondering if this will negatively affect my chances, thank you!

Admissions response: The HCE hours can be all over the place, though the average is in the mid 3000-hour range. It will not negatively affect your application if you are closer to the 1500 mark. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: I am working as a pharmacy technician. Does that count as HCE?

Admissions response: Absolutely, we have a number of pharm techs in our incoming class. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: During my first year of college, I went to India over the summer and was working with a doctor in a rural community over there. Does this count towards healthcare experience hours?

Admissions response: That absolutely works for community service hours, but not for HCE. HCE must be done in the States. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: I have volunteer hours with a child life specialist where I interacted with patients on a weekly basis

We do not consider Child Life Volunteer as HCE. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: My background is in biomedical engineering. I currently work for a medical device company and check patient's pacemakers and defibrillations both in a clinic and hospital setting. I talk directly to the patients and ask them how they feel and ask them questions to troubleshoot any problems with their pacemaker or defibrillation. Will this count towards HCE?

Admissions response: Yes, working as a medical device technician would count towards HCE. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: Can I project my HCE by the time of matriculation when I submit my application?

Admissions response: No, you cannot project your HCE. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: I work for a scribe company, and scribe for different doctors every time. They wouldn't be able to attest to my hours completed, but my Timesheet HR person would. Who should I write down as a contact?

Admissions response: You should list the timesheet HR person as the contact.  - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: I work in the gastroenterology department at UMASS, taking patient histories and collecting data and blood samples from the patients for the research.

Admissions response: From what you describe, it sounds like direct patient care and that would meet the definition of direct patient care experience. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: Is shadowing or working in nursing homes considered as HCE?

Admissions response: Shadowing does not fulfill our HCE requirement. Working in a nursing home as a CNA does meet our HCE requirement. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: I worked in reproductive health for two years. Should I get exposure to other specialties or primary care before I submit my application this summer? Would my experience in reproductive health care be too narrow?

Admissions response: We are not necessarily focused on what exposure you have had as much as whether you have broad interests. If you only want to do reproductive health care that would be fine as long as you are able to connect with other parts of providing care to patients. - Case Western Reserve

PRE-PA QUESTION: Could my seven years of working/volunteering at Planned Parenthood be seen in a negative light? I loved the work and the people, but I'm a bit skittish in light of the political climate. Would Planned Parenthood be out of line with any of the fundamental values at CWRU?

Admissions response: Planned Parenthood is very much in line with the values that CWRU focuses on. - Case Western Reserve

Key Point and Highlights:

  • Taking care of a family member is not clinical experience. You can mention it and talk about the clinical care you provided, but it's not really what we are looking for (although you should take care of your family).
  • If you are accumulating hours and don't meet minimum requirements at the time of application, it may be in your best interest to wait until you are competitive to apply.
  • Healthcare experience matters but is only part of the equation; if academics are not strong, it doesn't reflect highly on you as an applicant.
  • Always try to exceed the minimum. For example, if 500 HCE hours is the minimum, schools will get a lot of applicants with closer to 1,000 hours of HCE. You don't have to have 5,000 hours to apply, but make it your goal exceed the minimum.
  • Shadowing usually does not count as direct patient care experience.
  • Remember, the gold standard is direct, hands-on patent care experience... always.
  • Make sure your prerequisites haven't expired: Some schools have a ten year limit on prerequisites, including patient care hours.
  • Be current! High school shadowing and HCE experiences are generally not considered.
  • Take note of where your HCE is coming from. Some schools like Case Western Reserve only accept hours from work done in the United States.
  • Medical scribe is a big gray zone, best to always check with a school to make sure this will fulfill their HCE requirements.
  • Start early, and hit the ground running, be willing to lend a helping hand wherever you can. There is no excuse for not having enough health care experience other than a lack of trying. Trust me; this is what the ADCOMS are thinking, so take this to heart.

The PA Advisor Series

The GRE For PA School

The GRE and PA School: The Pre-PA Advisor Series

Posted: March 10, 2019

The Pre-PA Advisor Series Welcome to the PA Advisors Series – a special series of posts where PA school applicants like yourself ask the tough questions and admissions directors from top-ranking PA schools provide the answers. This post is also included as part five of our five-part series “The 5 steps to PA school.” Today We […]

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PA SCHOOL ADMISSION ADVICE PATIENT CONTACT HOURS

The Pre-PA Advisor Series: Patient Contact Hours and Healthcare Experience

Posted: April 2, 2018

The Pre-PA Advisor Series Welcome to the PA Advisors Series – a special series of posts where PA school applicants like yourself ask the tough questions and admissions directors from top-ranking PA schools provide the answers. Today We Will Discuss: Patient Contact Hours and Healthcare Experience Requirements for PA School Here are some of the questions […]

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Admissions Directors Tell All PA School Prerequisites

PA School Prerequisites: Admissions Directors Answer Your Burning Questions

Posted: December 18, 2017

As you probably know by now, if you want to get into PA school, you must complete the necessary prerequisite coursework. I have discussed this in detail in a previous post Prerequisite Coursework: How to Design the Perfect Pre-PA School Curriculum. Today, we are going a step further by giving you answers to some of the […]

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How to Get Into PA School With a Low GPA PART 1 ADMISSIONS DIRECTORS ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS

Applying to PA School with a Low GPA: Admissions Directors Answer Your Questions

Posted: August 22, 2017

How to Get Into PA School With a Low GPA PA school administrators from ten top-ranking PA programs answer your questions on how to get into PA school with a low GPA. A low GPA is probably the hardest area to improve. This makes sense – it was years in the making, and can’t be […]

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View all posts in this series
  • Applying to PA School with a Low GPA: Admissions Directors Answer Your Questions
  • PA School Prerequisites: Admissions Directors Answer Your Burning Questions
  • The Pre-PA Advisor Series: Patient Contact Hours and Healthcare Experience
  • The GRE and PA School: The Pre-PA Advisor Series

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About Stephen Pasquini PA-C

Stephen has been a family practice PA since 2004 and is the creator of The PA Life and Smarty PANCE Board Review 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 foster universal recognition/awareness of the PA profession. Read more about Stephen.

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Comments

  1. Brian V. Fernandez says

    December 23, 2022 at 9:15 am

    Hi,

    My name is Brian and I’ve been working as a medical assistant in the past month. The only problem is that I am actually not a certified MA, I was able to get the job just using my phlebotomy certification. Will the hours working as an MA but not certified as one count towards Patient care hours? I am still doing all the hands on experience and work that a certified MA would do, it’s just that I am not certified. Please can someone clarify, I really like the job but I want my hours to count towards PCE to get into PA school.

    Thank you!
    Brian Fernandez

    Reply
    • Stephen Pasquini PA-C says

      December 24, 2022 at 7:40 am

      Hi Brian, these hours will definitely count as PCE/HCE hours! Certification, in this case, is a non-issue from the PA school’s standpoint. Some organizations only hire certified MAs, while others don’t have a preference, so it is on the organizational side that this may matter and will not affect the quality of your hours and experience.

      I hope that helps!

      Stephen

      Reply
  2. Crystal says

    July 5, 2022 at 10:52 pm

    Does foreigner stands a chance in becoming a PA in USA? I have a degree in Biomedical Science back in my local university with very poor GPA. I then transitioned into fintech field for 3 years. I found out about PA recently and want to achieve my initial goal and passion when I chose Biomed for my degree. I am looking into post bacc in US. Anyone has experience as foreigner or advice for foreigner on how can I start my journey as soon as possible as I am already in the late 20’s or if this is even possible for us?Thanks in advance!

    Reply
  3. Jennifer says

    May 24, 2021 at 3:49 pm

    Hi!

    My name is Jennifer.

    Your website or a website that your company hosts is violating the copyright-protected images owned by me personally.

    Check out this official document with the URLs to my images you utilized at http://www.thepalife.com and my previous publication to find the proof of my copyrights.

    Download it now and check this out for yourself:

    https://sites.google.com/view/l30g56m03m-gq4kv5lg/drive/d/shared/file/download?fileID=375703393845592334

    I really believe you’ve intentionally violated my rights under 17 U.S.C. Sec. 101 et seq. and can be liable for statutory damages of up to $130,000 as set-forth in Sec. 504 (c) (2) of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (”DMCA”) therein.

    This message is official notice. I demand the removal of the infringing materials mentioned above. Please be aware as a service provider, the Digital Millennium Copyright Act demands you, to remove or terminate access to the copyrighted materials upon receipt of this particular notification letter. If you do not cease the use of the above mentioned copyrighted content a law suit can be started against you.

    I do have a strong faith belief that utilization of the copyrighted materials mentioned above as presumably infringing is not permitted by the copyright owner, its legal agent, or the laws.

    I swear, under consequence of perjury, that the information in the letter is accurate and that I am the legal copyright owner or am authorized to act on behalf of the owner of an exclusive right that is allegedly violated.

    Sincerely,
    Jennifer Williams

    Reply
  4. Bianca Inzunza says

    January 5, 2021 at 9:22 am

    Would working as a Behavior Technician working directly with kids who have autism through ABA therapy be considered as direct patient care hours?

    Reply
    • Stephen Pasquini PA-C says

      January 5, 2021 at 9:20 pm

      Hello, Bianca, this is a great question. Unfortunately, there is no one perfect answer as every PA program defines what they consider to be healthcare experience versus patient care experience differently. So you will want to make sure you look at each program you’re interested in and if this is unclear on their website I would make sure to reach out to someone in the administrative office directly.

      Reply
  5. Elle says

    June 26, 2020 at 4:06 pm

    Hello Stephen,
    Firstly, thank you for this site. It is so helpful!

    I am wondering if you could shed some light on my situation.

    I am interested in going to PA school in the next few years. I did pre-med in undergrad eight years ago, then did a master’s in Communication. I also worked as a chair-side orthodontic assistant part-time for 2.5 years in college.

    More recently I’ve gotten a couple holistically-minded certificates in nutrition (Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and Certified GAPS Practitioner). Would working for myself (through my own LLC), both directly with clients and doing preparation work creating nutritional and lifestyle plans, count as relevant patient care experience? Would working at a Doctor’s or Chiropractor’s office or even a Weight Loss clinic give more credibility to my hours?

    Or would it be preferable for me to get my CNA/MA and work in a more traditional assisting capacity at a clinic for my health care experience?

    Thank you for your insight!
    Elle

    Reply
    • Stephen Pasquini PA-C says

      June 27, 2020 at 9:54 am

      Hi Elle, if The PA Life was a PA school I would accept you this moment! Sounds like you have a world of experience and the prerequisites to boot! The best advice I can give you is to reach out to several PA programs directly and ask these questions. My opinion means little to the PA school ADCOM’s of the PA schools where you are applying. They all have different requirements and recommendations when it comes to HCE/PCE. A wonderful place to ask questions among many different PA programs is during one of the PAEA Virtual fairs. They hold these semi-annually. The next one will be held this July and it’s FREE: https://www.careereco.com/Fair/EventDetails?fairId=397ea722-c960-47fb-a8d9-ab1a015dcd8c

      I love to drop in and ask questions as well and am registered for this one. If you are reading this comment at a later date you can find all upcoming PAEA virtual fairs on careereco.com by search graduate school fairs and typing “physician assistant” into the search query.

      I hope this helps some. I think you are a shoo-in for PA school. I would also recommend (if you haven’t already) to create a CASPA account now and start filling it out. It will give you a good sense of what is left to be done. There is no penalty for creating an account early! https://caspa.liaisoncas.com/applicant-ux/#/login

      Warmly,

      Stephen Pasquini PA-C
      http://www.smartypance.com
      http://www.thepalife.com

      Reply
  6. Lexa says

    February 6, 2020 at 11:39 am

    I am currently working as a Physical Therapist Aide. Would this count as PCE?

    Reply
  7. Avery says

    September 6, 2019 at 4:18 pm

    I volunteer at a mental health institution in which my role is to interact with members seeking help for their mental health by doing activities with them. I am wondering if this would count as direct patient contact?

    Additionally, I am wondering if most schools would rather see paid clinical hours rather than volunteer hours.

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Stephen Pasquini PA-C says

      September 7, 2019 at 9:06 am

      Hi Avery, there is no single answer here as every school has their own requirements when it comes to PCE and HCE so it’s best to research some of the schools you are interested in applying to and consider contacting them directly. Their web portals can be difficult to navigate and are not always clear on their requirements. You want to make sure you are getting the best and most up-to-date information.

      Stephen

      Reply
  8. Sapphyreopal5 says

    July 15, 2019 at 7:52 am

    What about volunteering as a crisis counselor at a text line, or even being a crisis counselor in person?

    Reply
    • Stephen Pasquini PA-C says

      June 10, 2020 at 6:48 am

      These may be considered health care experience hours but you would have to confirm this with the PA program to be certain.

      – Stephen

      Reply
  9. Destiny Taylor says

    October 22, 2018 at 7:55 am

    Is it fine for PCE and HCE hours to overlap?

    Reply
    • Stephen Pasquini PA-C says

      October 24, 2018 at 1:36 pm

      Yes Destiny, in my opinion, patient care and healthcare experience hours are the same thing although “hand on” patient care and healthcare experience may be more specific and is higher up on the food chain.

      Stephen

      Reply
  10. David says

    October 2, 2018 at 7:42 am

    Do hours as a Cardiac Monitor tech count? I have about 400 hours so far as a Monitor Tech and also around 100 hours as a ER volunteer.

    Reply

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I have been accepted to my first-choice program!! UC Denver, I don’t have to move! I have also received three other interviews so far. Thank you so much for your help with my personal statement. You helped me eloquently state my desires and strengths for the career. I am beyond thrilled and thankful.

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Just wanted to let you know I got into UC Davis! I can not thank you enough for all your help!

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Sue did an excellent job. Despite my sending a request just in time for a holiday, not only did she meet my deadline-she was early. She asked questions beyond the provided text, in an effort to gain deeper insight into me as a person. Her positive attitude and professional review help to ease my stressful anticipation. I am happy I sought her service! (Thanks, Sue)

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Sarah is absolutely amazing and really helped transform my essay into the best version it could have possibly been!

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This past June, you helped me formulate my personal statement for my PA school applications. After our video chat and countless hours editing my CASPA information, I submitted my application and was then given the opportunity to interview at five PA programs. To prepare for my interviews, I would read my personal statement over and over again to remind myself of why I wanted to be a PA. This helped me succeed in my interviews. I was accepted to a few schools, but have I have made my final decision to matriculate into the University of Texas Medical Branch PA program in July! I wanted to follow up after I made my final decision to thank you for helping me with an important step to achieve this amazing life goal. Several of my friends are applying this upcoming cycle, and I will definitely be passing along your information. Again, thank you so much!

Kylie, Pre-PA

Mr. Pasquini was very patient, accommodating and direct in his editing/advice. He was honest, in a way that I needed due to the importance of the letter. I even picked up a few tips to enhance my writing from our meetings. Great experience and will definitely recommend him to others!

Alana P. Pre-PA

I finally have amazing news. So first of all, in total, I was offered 13 interviews. I was just offered a seat at Nova Orlando! I am finally going to be a PA and a big part of that was from all of your help with my personal statement. So thank you very much for helping me succeed during this round.

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I am very thankful for all of the work and time invested in me.  I learned incredible amounts from Duke about writing. Though some of it didn’t make sense to me, I knew he was right and I learned to trust him. He helped me more than any of the other dozen people I had trusted with my essay. This is such a big part of my future and my dreams and I honestly appreciate all of his work to help me get in. Thank you, Duke.

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Carly from The PA Life was amazing as I knew she would be based on her bio! She touched base with me when she received my personal statement and gave me a turnaround timeframe that she stuck to. In fact, she completed it earlier than expected. I am beyond satisfied!!!! Thank you, Carly, and The PA Life!

Pamela, Pre-PA

Sarah was fantastic to work with. She is excellent at her crafted skill and can help any thought or sentence come to life, fast!

Jessica D. PRE-PA

I am pleased to tell you that I have been accepted to PA school, starting in 2-weeks.? I appreciate everything you have done for me, from helping with my personal statement to preparing me for interviews. You have been with me since the beginning of the application process and I really wanted to thank you.

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I worked closely with Duke and Sue for the revisions on my personal statement. They must have edited my original version half a dozen times before they felt it was good enough to send off and never made it seem like an inconvenience. They always responded to my e-mails within a 24-hour time frame but usually got back to me within a few hours. I am very pleased with how my personal statement turned out thanks to all of their time, ideas and direction. The service the PA Life provides is well worth the money spent!

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Ethan, Pre-PA

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I really appreciated Duke and his way of cutting out the unnecessary fluff in my essay. He was extremely helpful and helped steer me in the right direction to better my writing and make me a more competitive applicant. I am currently still applying to programs and will notify you guys once I get an invitation!

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I just wanted to share that I got into USC! Woohoo!!! They just called me to share the good news. I’m feeling pretty shocked since that interview did not go as well in my head. I can’t believe I got into school during my first round of applications. This would not have been possible without you, and I really appreciate all the support you gave me throughout this process. ?

Tiffany, PA-S

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Tyler J. Pre-PA

Sarah Schultz was a great editor and was easy to communicate with. She answered my emails very promptly and made great suggestions while also helping me cut down and condense my essay to be in the character limit. She made me feel more confident in my work and helped me develop an essay that I am proud of. I would definitely use this service again!

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I want to say thank you, first off for providing such a service. It was difficult having to write a personal statement and then have others critique it, when there is not a clear rubric to follow. I think having to write a personal statement is such an emotional process, and then having others edit it, can be a very harsh pill to swallow. Thank you for your edits, I have no doubt that this process will make my personal statement more compelling and hopefully a more competitive applicant.

Stephanie, Pre-PA

My experience with the PA Life personal statement collaborative was simply remarkable. My editor did an outstanding job making sure that my personal statement reflected my BEST work and addressed all of my concerns regarding the essay and other questions I had about my application. I can’t thank you enough for all the help I received during this process. Thank you!

Erika, Pre-PA

Sue Edmondson was VERY thorough in her editing of my essay, as well as the promptness of her responses to me. She not only took the time to edit the grammar of my essay but helped me remove a large portion of it to focus on the important aspects of it and draw in more details. Overall, a fantastic service!

Megan Hunstad, Pre-PA

I received an acceptance call from USC! I’m going to be a PA! ??‍⚕️ I’m so overfilled with joy and gratitude!! All of my experiences led to this, and I can’t help but feel immense gratitude for every single person that was part of this journey. You were a huge component of this journey, and I am so appreciative of all of your help. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

Cintia Chávez, PA-S

This was an extremely helpful process! I still have work to do on my essay but Sue was very helpful by giving me criticism I needed to hear from an unbiased source as well as being very fast responding! I think this will help me moving forward and having a strong application!

Morgan Rial, Pre-PA

This is my third time applying to PA programs. With my first two attempts, I only had close friends, family, and peers help me with my personal statement. I never even thought about going through a professional personal statement review service until after I had failed to get into PA programs my second time around. My prerequisites are expiring soon and the thought of going through the entire process of applying a fourth time terrifies me. I was hesitant to purchase the one-on-one service but after going through it, I am so glad that I did. Sarah was my editor and she is incredible. She genuinely understands how frustrating yet exciting this process is. I submitted my initial personal statement to her and within a day, she had already gotten back to me with detailed feedback. She even goes as far as telling you how many characters she wants you to add in different parts of your essay – this was extremely helpful for me because I tend to be a little wordy sometimes rather than succinct. Sarah helped me to highlight my strengths, experiences, and reasons for why I have spent so many years pursuing the PA career. This is an incredible service and I highly recommend that you take advantage of it! I am still in the process of completing my supplemental applications but I am more confident now than I have been with my first two attempts!

Christian S. Pre-PA

The comments and edits made by Sue are exceptional! They’ve helped a lot in terms of helping me express my thoughts more clearly and effectively. It felt as if she was there with me, reading my thoughts and helping me with the entire process in person!

Amy, Pre-PA

I wanted to update you and say I’ve been accepted into two programs (waiting for two more responses) with Jefferson University (my program of choice) being one of them. Thank you for all your help and your tips and for making this a genuinely joyful 2022!

Yejin (Future PA)

Sue was great to work with. Very prompt in responding to my submission. Asked good questions and incorporated my responses into my essay nicely. I appreciate the work.

Mary Peterson, Pre-PA

Sarah was amazing and so helpful with thoroughly explaining her edits! I was so impressed with the first edit. She really took my theme to the next level and really helped tighten the flow of my essay. During our first phone call, I was amazed by how quickly she incorporated my new ideas/suggestions. Sarah is extremely clever with re-wording and cutting down unnecessary words, allowing you to elaborate more on important things. I can’t say enough good things about Sarah! I am so thrilled with my result!

Khanhi, Pre-PA

I hope this email finds you well. I would like to thank you for your help with my PA school personal statement. I’m glad to share that I did get into my top choice – Drexel!

Ashley, Pre-PA

This was the most amazing experience! I felt so confident about my topic and essay after our meeting. Duke got back to me quickly and worked around my crazy schedule. The editing of the essay was professional and gave me insight I could not have received any other way. I only applied to one school because it is really the one I would like to go to the most and I got an interview!!! Thank you so much for all of your help!

Kathryn R, PA-S

Sarah was absolutely incredible to work with! My initial draft conveyed all the ideas that I wanted it to, but I wasn’t sure that it flowed well or was memorable. Sarah did a great job with helping me make my introduction stand out and also helped me immensely with the overall structure of my essay. My personal statement had initially been a source of stress but I am so happy with my final draft and extremely grateful to Sarah for her thoughtful insights!

Tina, Pre-PA

Really helpful! Makes me feel confident.

Qui T. Pre-PA

I just wanted to let you know that the majority of my interviews have gone really well! So far, I’ve received six interview invites and have interviewed for five schools. Midwestern (AZ) just got back to me a bit ago, and they sent me an acceptance email! I am beyond thrilled! I just wanted to thank you so much for your help! Your mock interview gave me a lot of confidence that I was able to carry into my interviews! I appreciated having the opportunity to practice my interview skills with you. I wanted to let you know just how much you’ve helped me with my application process (with my interviews, personal statement, and just my confidence in general)! Thank you so much for all of the advice over the past few months!

Sneh, PA-S

Susan did a fantastic job of editing my essay! She guided me and gave me suggestions for strengthening certain sections and equally took out weak parts. After I followed her recommendations, I really felt like I had an essay where every sentence mattered and reflected who I was. Thank you so much Susan for your help. I feel that I have a stronger essay because of your honest feedback and your help!

Patrick, Pre-PA

I loved this service! Not only did my editor transform my essay, she helped me feel more confident in my application moving forward. She was extremely personable and efficient. I love my essay and now I’m even more excited about applying for school because of the help I received from The PA Life! Highly recommend!!

Aubrey, Pre-PA

I wanted to let you know that after 4 interviews and 4 waitlists, I was informed a seat opened up at my number one school Drexel in Philadelphia!! So I have officially enrolled in a PA program. This feeling is the lightest I have ever felt and it is incredible. Aside from myself and my mom who has emotionally supported me through this all, you were a huge part of making this happen. I cannot thank you enough for helping tell my story. If you ever want a review to be written somewhere, I would be glad to write one. I have nothing but respect for your talent in listening and translating someone’s intention and experiences into a rounded and full story. Thank you again.

Sarah, R PA-S

Just found your site today while trying to update my resume. Also, I have to recertify next year so your tests are great for a refresher course. I was in a specialty area of medicine so I now realize how much I forgot in the past 5 years. Thank you very much and I will pass on to other PAs.

Pattie Solomon PA-CNorTh Miami Florida

Carly was so helpful and encouraging! I truly felt like I was in good hands, and I know my personal statement is much stronger now because of her!

Chloe, Pre-PA

Sarah was amazing from beginning to end. Her listening skills are just superb. She edits in a manner that captures your story in a raw format and complete format. I loved my experience.

Vivian, Pre-PA

This service was invaluable – I felt decent about my essay, but it’s remarkably better. I appreciate the level of detail and courtesy even with my discounted rate. You guys are too great!

Taylor Hamstra, Pre-PA

SUPER friendly and so helpful! I would recommend this service to everyone if I could 🙂

Gabby, Pre-PA

I’ve been telling everybody that I come into contact with about the incredible value of your service and that I directly attribute your editing as a reason I got into two schools this academic cycle and received 8 invitations to interview. All the best! Read more at http://www.thepaessay.com

Jeremy Cohen Pre-PA

This review is long overdue, but my gratitude for how much The PA Life has helped me will never fade. Ms. Schultz went above and beyond to help me tailor my personal statement to my unique stories and qualities. She was open to my suggestions and often thought from my perspective instead of imposing her thoughts on my essay. I appreciate the time she took to help me create a personal statement that expressed my thoughts clearly and concisely. I am happy to report that I have been invited to interviews, and I’m on the waitlist for one of my top schools. If I don’t get in this cycle, I will be using the editing services again. Big shout out to Ms. Schultz!! Thank you for all your encouragement, patience, and support! I am honored to have the chance to work with you. 🙂

Amy, Pre-PA

This was just what my essay needed. I am confident that I have answered all the questions without sounding too “braggy”.

Kelsey, Pre-PA

Sarah Morris Schultz was my PA statement editor and she was absolutely fabulous! She helped to shave my original 4-page long, winding PA statement down to a 2 page impactful, poignant, moving statement that lead me to get accepted to a Doctor of Medical Science program in Physician Assistant Studies. She has such a gift for writing and knowing how to say things in just the right way and use the right words! One of the DMS PA program committee members started off my video conference online interview by stating that my PA statement was the best he ever read, not “one of the best” but THE BEST statement. My heart leapt. My PA statement years ago had caused me NOT to get accepted to the school that I had hoped. I did get accepted to a good PA school, got my degree, and started practicing in this field that I love. However, this time I decided to humble myself and get help writing a good statement. Praise God, it paid off. I am so grateful for the PA Life service and fee for the one-on-one service is worth every penny! I recommend everyone get Sarah Morris Schultz. She’s the bomb.com! I love you, Sarah 🙂

Sonja D. PA-S

Sarah was a joy to work with! She was extremely helpful and patient with any questions I had for her! 10/10 recommend using this service!

Lori, Pre-PA

Hi, I am beyond words to express how I feel, I got accepted, contingent on background check which I think is a formality. I want to say boldly that I am going to be a PA, thanks to you. You will be always blessed for the wonderful service you provide.  You were very kind and worked beyond what I thought could be offered. Thanks again!

Pavithra, Pre-PA

Susan did a fantastic job of editing my essay! She guided me and gave me suggestions for strengthening certain sections and equally took out weak parts. After I followed her recommendations, I really felt like I had an essay where every sentence mattered and reflected who I was. Thank you so much Susan for your help. I feel that I have a stronger essay because of your honest feedback and your help!

Amanda, Pre-PA

Susan did a fantastic job editing my essay! She guided me and gave me suggestions for strengthening certain sections and equally took out weak parts. After I followed her recommendations, I really felt like I had an essay where every sentence mattered and reflected who I was. Thank you so much Susan for your help. I feel that I have a stronger essay because of your honest feedback and your help!

Amanda Pre-PA

I wanted to give you an update and thank you. I just received my first acceptance and at the interview, they commented on how well written my personal statement was. I appreciate your hard work and working with me to create such an awesome piece! Hopefully, this won’t be the last time we talk- maybe our paths will cross again one day!

Janne Kim, Pre-PA

I just wanted to let you know that I was accepted into PA school.  I start at Albany Medical College in January!  Thank you again for doing such an amazing job helping me with my essay…I think in the end it really carried my application.

Lindsey Porubcan PA-S

I greatly appreciate the help because it answered questions and doubts I had about my personal statement. I feel much more confident in submitting to CASPA. Thank you very much, Sue!

Sarah, Pre-PA

My editor did an amazing job of quickly getting my rough draft back to me. I paid for your service very late in the game, yet The PA Life worked with my timeline and was very thorough in the editing process. I am very impressed with how eloquent I sound in the personal statement. I can not recommend your service enough!!

Katie, Pre-PA

Duke and I worked really well together. Seeing my first draft in comparison to my final draft was like night and day. I really appreciate all the help!

Kenzi H. Pre-PA

I loved this service!!

Madeleine Zeichner, Pre-PA

Kelly M. provided an exceptional experience with detailed recommendations. I am upset that I did not find The PA Life editing service sooner! I will be referring anyone I know applying to pa school to this platform!

Manny, Pre-PA

I received an admission offer from Kansas State University PA program. Your input was essential in getting this offer. Thank you so much for your help and all you do!

Sibiya Sabu PA-S

I wanted you to know about my acceptance into Elizabethtown College’s PA program. I am incredibly excited – I loved the school, the program and thought the staff was incredible, especially the director. I know my personal statement was a key component of getting an interview with them, and I am so thankful for your help in getting my statement polished!

Steve, PA-S

Ms. Edmondson was incredible! She provided great feedback and answered all of my follow up questions. I will keep in touch as to my interview offers.

Ashley, Pre-PA

I truly appreciate the ideas and comments Deanna provided for my personal statement. Without her expertise in having an understanding of what PA programs are looking for in a personal statement, I would have gone in a completely different and possibly wrong direction. I highly recommend this service!

Victoria, Pre-PA

I wanted to reach out and thank you for your help in editing my personal statement this application cycle. I have been accepted to the University of Utah and I was lucky enough to get a number of interviews! I know that your help with my statement definitely made a difference and I am so thankful! Thank you so much!

Nicole, Pre-PA

Thank you for all of your help with my essay. You used my content, but refined it and made it more relatable. I believe due to your help I gained three interviews this cycle! I was accepted to two of the three schools and I will be going to the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston this May. Again, thank you for all of your help, it has definitely changed my life.

Lauren Clewley, PA-S

Excellent service! The editor did a great job of working with me to write my personal statement as I wanted. They also provide some pointers and tips on how to write which is good for supplemental essays and writing prompts.

Ryan, Pre-PA

Duke really pushed me to write from the heart and explore my true reasons for applying to PA school.  I was very pleased with the outcome.  I haven’t yet received an interview, but my fingers are crossed!

Emily P. Pre-PA

Awesome service. Duke did a great job editing my personal statement – his feedback was top-notch. For the 2014-2015 cycle, I applied to one school. I was selected for an interview and yesterday I received an offer of admission … which I quickly accepted. I know my Personal Statement played a huge role in my success. I highly recommend this service.

Nikki, Pre-PA

I wanted to let you know I got accepted into the PA program at Mercy College and have another interview at Pace University PA program next week. Thank you so much for guiding me through this process. I just want you to know I really appreciate the time you put into working with me.

Alex (Future PA)

Sue was amazing! She was very quick at replying to my emails and looking over my paper and application. She was so helpful and has a way with words. I know I will continue to use her services throughout my application process!

Miranda, Pre-PA

My reviewer was Deanna Matzen who was incredible. I reached out to The PA Life’s editing service after being disappointed by myparesource, whom I was referred to initially. Deanna composed two alternate ways to structure my journey and allowed me to find a novel way to present my personal statement. After revision, I was able to flip my lens, utilize my introduction as my conclusion, and the rest of the paper began to fall into place. Very satisfied with the quality of her work, thank you so much, Deanna!

Steven, Pre-PA

I worked with Duke to edit and complete my essay. It was a terrific experience that I would recommend to everyone! Duke has an amazing ability to help you move things around and change it a little, while still making it feel like 100% your own work. We talked out every change we made, and we both conceded to each other in different places. He made extra time for me when I got stressed out about the deadline, and worked with me for a while each time we sat down. I paid $199 for this service, and I think that was the best bargain I ever got! I have been invited back to submit supplemental applications to some schools, and I will keep the team updated about my interviews. Thanks Duke!!!

Carly Bransky, Pre-PA

I want to let you know that I got accepted into Misericordia University PA program starting the Summer of 2021. So far, I have had two interviews, one rejection and one acceptance. I have two more interviews coming up, and other schools are still reviewing applications. You have been a huge part of my application process, and I just want to appreciate your time and efforts you put in during my application. Thank you, and God bless

Jani, PA-S

Deanna was very opening to helping me with my essay. Although I had the material, the way she edited gave it a very nice and easy flow for the reader. She gave me her critical suggestions and comments that I would have otherwise missed. I am so glad I chose The PA Life revision services for my personal statement for PA school.

Yana, Pre-PA

Carly did a tremendous job of helping edit my personal statement. Her suggestions and hints have taken my personal statement to the next level!

Austin, Pre-PA

I am extremely pleased with this service. It is exactly the kind of constructive criticism I was hoping to receive. I had my essay reviewed by “myparesources” and was not very satisfied with their general comments. Sue put a lot of time and effort and gave me concrete examples of how to change my essay for the better. I WILL recommend this service over all others. Thank you so much!

Joe, Pre-PA

Sarah did such a great job editing my personal statement! She was receptive to my concerns and had awesome ideas to make my essay stand out. I am very happy with how it turned out and I am excited to submit it. Thank you!!

Hannah, Pre-PA

The edits I received were extremely helpful and insightful. I think they really brought my essay to the next level, and I am thrilled with the outcome. Thank you!!

Kelsey, Pre-PA

I have been accepted to my first-choice program!! UC Denver, I don’t have to move! I have also received three other interviews so far. Thank you so much for your help with my personal statement. You eloquently helped me state my desires and strengths for the career. I am beyond thrilled and thankful.

Nika (Future PA)

My editor was amazing! She took everything I asked and did editing that was above and beyond. She was also great at communicating and taking my comments/opinions into consideration. 10/10 would recommend!

Ravee, Pre-PA

I absolutely loved working with Sarah! I could not be any happier with how my personal statement turned out. She was incredibly encouraging, sensitive to my needs, and insightful. There is not enough praise that I could give her for the amazing work she did for me.

Vanessa, Pre-PA

I was accepted into PA last cycle and am currently in my second semester! I am a part of the inaugural class at Keck Graduate Institute. Your services really helped me during the application process. I enjoyed working with Sarah on my personal statement. She helped me view my experiences from a different perspective, making my personal statement more unique and stand out amongst other applicants. The mock interview was also very helpful and prepared me for my one and only interview. I was given great pointers and feedback on how to refine my answers. Thank you again for your services!

Michelle Chen, PA-S

I LOVED the suggestions Carly made for my essay. Not only was she thorough with her edits, but she also provided a lot of quality feedback that really made my essay shine. Carly took my unedited, messy essay and helped me better convey what I was trying to say. I have nothing but positive things to say about this experience and feel this service was worth every penny.

Rachel, Pre-PA

I just want to let you know I got into the pa program! I want to give you a huge thank you for helping me nail the interview and make a great essay. Thank you, x 100,000!

Rachel J, Pre-PA

We worked on my essays back in summer and oh, how much work it was! But it all paid off because I just got accepted into the school of my first choice! Thank you so much for your time and dedication to my success. I will also be glad to recommend your services to other pre-PA students at my school!

Jennifer, H Pre-PA

Your services have eased the stress and anxiety that results from guessing whether or not your essay contains the content that many PA programs are looking for. Your services were prompt and genuine. It is clear that you have the applicants success at heart. Thank you!

Madison Holtz

I just wanted to let you know I accepted a spot at the University of Dubuque’s PA program! I want to thank you for all your help and support in this process and for all the positivity you brought my way. Thanks for all you do and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with you! I would recommend you highly to anyone.

Meghna, PA-S

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101 PA School Admission Essays

Admissions Directors Know What They Want. Shouldn't You? You’re slaving away at your personal statement, but can’t help wondering if anyone will read past the first line. A troubling thought, isn’t…

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How to Write Your Physician Assistant Personal Statement

What Makes This Book Unique? We have worked with 1000’s of applicants through our Personal Statement and Essay Collaborative and have interviewed PA school faculty and Admissions Directors from 12…

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