The Physician Assistant Essay and Personal Statement Collaborative

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1. Thi Nguyen says

   September 5, 2024 at 12:32 pm

   Dare to Dream Big by Lorna Gutierrez (2020) was the first English book I read to my little niece with a heavy accent when I first moved to the United States. Because of my limited English and difficult family circumstances, I became self-conscious and did not dare to dream of going back to school to pursue my passion for medicine. That was me five years ago.

   In the summer of 2019, I left my nursing dreams back with my homeland to start a new life in the United States with my family, bringing with us nothing but empty hands and a lot of debt. Thanks to the help of relatives, my family secured stable jobs. Although our income was not much, we managed day-by-day and paid off debt. After my first year in the US, things finally began to settle down. In this moment of relief I dared to dream big for the first time in a long time. I decided to continue my education despite the language barrier and financial challenges awaiting me. I enrolled at a local community college to pursue nursing while working part-time at a restaurant with my parents. As the youngest child in my family, I was proud to be the first generation to attend college in the United States.

   During my sophomore year, I gained my first hands-on experience with patients as a student nurse extern at a local hospital, where I had the opportunity to work one-on-one with patients in various departments, from the ER to the ICU. This experience taught me the value and importance of connecting with patients. I have had many conversations with many different patients. Each patient has a unique story, and I found my purpose in helping them feel comfortable, open and welcome.

   The thought of changing careers didn’t hit me until I was assigned to work with a patient who had attempted suicide by overdose. While helping him to the bathroom, he suddenly collapsed on me, his face turning blue. I quickly laid him on the floor and called for help, noticing that his pulse was weakening. I immediately started CPR. The medical team arrived and I witnessed, for the first time, a doctor intubating the patient and leading the team in saving his life. At that moment, I asked myself, “Do I dare to dream bigger?” I wondered if I could become a provider who not only cared for patients but also saved their lives at critical times. The answer was yes – I wanted to dream big again.

   After my sophomore year, my life took another turn when my father became seriously ill. He began losing weight rapidly and experienced persistent fevers. I remember taking him to the ER multiple times a week for his swollen legs and distended abdomen. Eventually, he was diagnosed with leukemia. My world turned upside down, and all I could do was pray for more time with him. Miraculously, three days later, we received a call from his PCP telling us it wasn’t cancer. He was diagnosed with endocarditis, which led to multiple organ failure. At the age of 21, I really feel grateful to be there and help my dad. I learned how to administer antibiotics through his PICC line, monitor his condition, and ensure he was stable at home. After months of treatment, my father was slowly doing better, though he needed a mitral valve replacement. At this moment, I knew that I could dream big again. My interest in becoming a physician assistant (PA) solidified when we met with a cardiology PA at Kaiser Permanente in Santa Clara before my father’s surgery. The way he explained the procedure and reassured us about the surgery made me realize that this was the role I wanted to pursue. I wanted to provide the same level of care, education, and comfort to others in need.

   To expand my medical knowledge, I took on a second role as an ER scribe, where I had the opportunity to collaborate with multiple doctors and build connections with physicians and PAs in the emergency department. Over two years of working as an ER scribe while finishing my undergraduate degree, I gained invaluable insights and experiences. One of the most profound moments that I witnessed was a physician working with a critical patient experiencing respiratory distress. Despite the team’s best efforts, the patient did not survive. I observed the physician as he delivered the heartbreaking news to the patient’s family with great composure and empathy. What struck me most was how he then welcomed the next patient with a calm and reassuring demeanor, as if nothing had happened. This experience taught me the emotional resilience required in healthcare—the ability to process and compartmentalize intense emotions without letting them interfere with the care of the next patient. It reinforced the importance of not taking anything personally and the need to move forward in the face of difficult situations, a lesson I carry with me as I pursue my path to becoming a PA.

   During this time, I also had the chance to shadow a PA who worked in both the ER and internal medicine. One day, I observed her as she calmly intubated a patient under the guidance of a physician, successfully saving the patient’s life. The next day, she allowed me to shadow her as she practiced internal medicine. Watching her explain lab results to a patient with such dedication and clarity made me realize how deeply I wanted to follow in her footsteps. I was impressed by the flexibility of the PA role, the ability to practice in multiple specialties, and the meaningful connections PAs forge with their patients—from kind conversations to life-saving procedures. This is why I chose to become a PA.

   Looking back over the past five years, from struggling with language barriers and financial challenges, to facing my father’s illness, to finishing my bachelor’s degree and applying for PA school, I realize that my journey has been shaped by resilience, determination, and the courage to dream big. My background may be different, and my path may have been humble, but these experiences have only strengthened my resolve to pursue my dreams. Every day, I wake up ready to face new challenges, knowing that each one is an opportunity to learn and grow. As Lorna Gutierrez wrote, “Dare to be who you truly are, a light in the dark, be you…” I am ready to embrace this calling, to shine my light in the lives of my future patients, and to continue daring to dream big as I work toward becoming a PA.

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2. Allie says

   September 1, 2024 at 3:27 pm

   Personal Statement – this is a very rough draft that follows an outline I created. I would appreciate any feedback you can provide at this time. Thank you very much!

   “What day is it? What are we celebrating today?” my grandmother asked.

   “It’s my birthday, Grandma, I’m eighteen today.”

   She stared at me with a confused look on her face. “Remind me again how I know you?”

   My mind went blank — I never imagined my grandmother would forget me. In just three months, she went from misplacing keys to not recognizing her own family. As a young girl, she always pushed me to pursue my interests and was the only member of my family who worked in healthcare. Later that summer, when my grandmother passed away, I was devastated. However, her words of encouragement pushed me onwards toward my dream of becoming a medical provider and enrolling in my first science class in college.

   In my first semester of university, I decided to take an anatomy and physiology course. It ended up being my favorite class the entire semester and I looked forward to learning more during each lecture. To this day, I still do not know why I chose that class first – it was definitely not what my academic advisor recommended for me. But, I am extremely grateful that I did. It introduced me to my thirst for scientific knowledge and eventually led me to become a teaching assistant for one of my mentor professors in a human physiology course. After pursuing healthcare classes my first year, I began to notice my desire to work with patients in a medical setting.

   I began working as a medical assistant to explore different medical careers at the end of my freshman year. Over the next three years, I shadowed nurses, doctors, and specialty therapists, searching for the right fit. It wasn’t until I shadowed Colette Clayton, a PA-C specializing in emergency medicine, that I finally felt like I belonged in a profession. Colette showed me how to interact with diverse patient populations, communicate effectively as part of a large care team, and build meaningful bonds with patients. Shadowing her was the experience that showed me that Physician Assistant school was my next step.

   As a medical assistant, I never backed down from a challenge and always did my best to rise to the occasion when it came to helping my patients. One of my most memorable interactions was with Mable, a deaf patient at the Pulmonary and Critical Care clinic I worked at. Mable never brought a translator to her appointments and often relied on reading lips to understand her physician. Mable reminded me of my grandmother, who spoke broken English, and regularly struggled to understand her care. I knew I wanted to do something to help her understand her treatment better. With her physician’s help, I created infographics for Mable and looked into finding a sign language interpreter. Fortunately, I was able to connect with a local sign language interpreter who worked with Mable’s physician. The smile on Mable’s face when she met the interpreter for the first time is forever embedded in my memory. When I reflect on this experience, it reminds me of why I want a greater role in patient care and why I aim to keep my work patient centric.

   Over the last several years I have been a teaching assistant for Human Physiology, a medical assistant with countless patient experiences, and a student, who still cannot learn enough about science, medicine, and people. Each experience has given me the tools to succeed in PA school and it has shown me that I possess determination, strength, and grit. PA school will be challenging but I know I will be able to overcome challenges and any setbacks to become an exceptional physician assistant. Not only is this shown in my academic career, but also in my professional one, as I have received many honors, recognitions, and awards for patient excellence and service.

   Once graduated from PA school, I plan to work in a primary care field and eventually pursue locum tenens so I can reach areas that do not receive regular medical care. Further on in my career as a Physician Assistant, I’d like to teach PA students at a local university. One of my favorite aspects of being a teaching assistant was helping students achieve their “Aha!” moments, so I really look forward to being a preceptor for students once I graduate.

   My grandmother’s words of encouragement resonate with me as I move forward in life. Innumerable moments with patients like Mable remind me why I chose to work in healthcare and why I want to step into a greater role. As I continue to work alongside Physician Assistants in the medical field, I grow more impressed at the versatility of their knowledge, the scope of their skills, and the intentionality behind every patient visit. I am confident not only that I want to become a PA, but also that I can bring my compassion, enthusiasm, and accountability to the profession and to my patients. I cherish the impact that I have had on my patients and know that with the training provided by PA school, I will begin to build relationships with patients for generations to come.

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3. Reuben says

   August 29, 2024 at 8:22 pm

   I am 700 characters over and am unsure what I should take out…. Thank you for any help you can provide!

   From an early age, I was acutely aware of the impact healthcare providers and specifically physician assistants can have on a person’s life. At just 21 months old I was diagnosed with cancer, a diagnosis that impacted my entire childhood. With chemotherapy I was able to be put in remission for a few months, however at about age 3 I relapsed. This journey through treatment was arduous, but the compassionate care and support from my doctors, nurses, physician assistants, and other medical professionals left an indelible mark that has stuck with me to this day. I will always remember how kind the nursing staff were to me, even on the days I was particularly difficult to deal with. I will always remember how sincere and comforting the physician assistants were to me, especially during the times I was most frightened. While I was very young and did not always understand what was going on or what I was actually experiencing, the PA’s would always be able to explain to me in ways that I could comprehend.
   My 6 year childhood battle with cancer taught me about resilience and the importance of patient-centered care. It was through this experience that I learned to appreciate the intricate balance between the science of medicine and the art of healing. I understood that the role of a healthcare provider extends beyond diagnostics and treatments; it involves being a source of hope and strength for patients during their most vulnerable times. As I grew older, this realization solidified my ambition to become a physician assistant.

   Having gone through this difficult circumstance as a child, It made me passionate about going into the medical field. As an adult I wasn’t exactly sure where I wanted to go in the medical field, but I knew I was drawn to it.

   Then, when I was 22, I faced yet another significant health challenge when I was suffering from chronic pain, later to be diagnosed as fibromyalgia. The pain I was experiencing stopped me from being able to do the things I loved. The pain was so intense, that I was forced to put a pause on my life, stopping school, not being able to meet with friends, and overall being forced to be bed bound. To say this was difficult would be an understatement. For years, I would go from doctor to doctor trying to figure out what I can do to get my life back on track, with no one being able to help. This was one of the most frustrating experiences of my life. All I wanted to do was get back to my “normal” life. I felt like I was falling behind as I saw my friends continue on in their careers while I was forced to be left behind.
   Finally I met with a phenomenal pain medicine doctor with his PA. They listened to me, and worked with me to find ways to help me manage my pain. With their help, I was able to go extended periods of time being active while being able to manage with my pain. Over time, with hard work, I have been able to be active again, and can go all day while working without focusing on pain.
   The persistent pain and the often invisible nature of Fibromyalgia taught me the importance of empathy, patience, and comprehensive care. Navigating the healthcare system as a patient with a chronic condition provided me with invaluable insights into the challenges many patients face. These insights I believe will make me a more compassionate and effective PA.

   Recently, I had the great opportunity to shadow a pediatrician who actually has PA students come to his practice to do their clinical rotations. I had the privilege of being treated as one of the PA students and received first hand knowledge and experience in what It is like to be a PA as a profession. At first it was a little daunting, but after a few days of learning I began to have an immense passion for it. I found it to be a great honor to be able to meet with patients and attempt to give them the kindness and attentiveness that I’ve received going through my medical experience. I looked forward to going into the office everyday, a feeling I genuinely never thought I would have for a job. I found I am drawn to the PA profession because it embodies a collaborative approach to healthcare, one that allows for meaningful patient interactions while still being deeply involved in the diagnostic and treatment processes.
   In addition to shadowing, I also volunteered in two summer camps as a counselor for children and young adults with special needs, intellectual and physical disabilities and for children battling cancer and other blood disorders. I was responsible for giving them an unforgettable fun summer while also making sure they would receive their medication, were clean and assisted in their occupational and physical therapy. This was a deeply meaningful time for me as I felt like I could give back to people going through their own difficult challenges.

   As I look toward the future, I am excited about the prospect of joining a profession that aligns so closely with my values and experiences. I am eager to bring my unique perspective as someone who was a patient who went through the healthcare system as both a child and as an adult. I am confident that my resilience, empathy, and dedication will allow me to make a positive impact on the lives of future patients. The challenges I have faced have not only strengthened my resolve but have also given me a profound appreciation for the PA profession. I am committed to becoming a PA who provides compassionate, patient-centered care, and I am eager to contribute to the field in a meaningful way. I often question why I had to go through so many medical difficulties, and if the answer to that question is; to lead me down a path to becoming a PA, I would finally understand and be content.

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4. Falak Asad says

   August 13, 2024 at 8:42 am

   “Achoo!” my mother sneezed. The jarring sound knocked me out of my reverie of painting and back into reality. My mother, after refusing to get the flu vaccine because “it has side effects!” was suffering from a nasty case of influenza. I wondered as I stared down, sighing at the thought of cleaning the myriad of colors that now covered my hardwood floors, thanks to my flinching into the stool holding my supplies. I wondered if the side effects of the flu vaccine were the same concept as this risk of painting. Despite the mess I unluckily needed to clean, I was able to paint a beautiful piece for my room. Despite possibly suffering a few side effects, would I gain something of greater worth by getting the flu vaccine?
   I graduated from my pediatrician, having only seen her six times since I was a toddler, and thus, I was swamped with healthcare myths. Erroneously, my parents thought that by avoiding medical consultations, they were saving me from the side effects of modern medicine. As I gained clinical experience, I learned that crowds of people similarly struggled with misinformation that cost them their health. Being exposed to this striking truth impacted my decision to become a Physician Assistant and solidified my commitment to ensuring patients receive the best medical education and treatment.
   However, when I entered college, I was indifferent to healthcare which began to change when I volunteered at food banks and distributed food to the hungry. Embarrassingly, I watched as they devoured all they were given, not considering sanitation or preservatives. I could not help but wonder how they likely had health issues that they were unable to address due to finances, which galvanized me to volunteer at an uninsured clinic. As a medical assistant, I called in a patient for vitals. She looked up and immediately asked, “Are you Indian?” I saw the tension in her eyes ease as I nodded. At first, I did not understand why, but it was clear when she expressed her fears about mammograms, even sobbing as she described her DNA mutating. Knowing the myths in our culture about radiation effects, I understood her comfort in discussing them with someone aware of the notions. I rushed to console her, but as a medical assistant, I could only explain so much, which frustrated me and further steered me into a healthcare career where I could educate people in the right direction about fallacies that could cost their lives.
   Later, I worked as a teaching assistant for special needs students, connecting with students one-on-one. Generally, students enjoyed learning by using hands-on activities. However, one student hated getting his hands dirty with glue and markers, so he avoided these activities. Since I could spend time with him individually, I consulted the teacher and tried various teaching methods, including music, stories, and games, finally discovering his love for sports. So while other students learned the alphabet by painting, he learned by tracing a ball’s path. This made me recall the patient who feared mammograms, wishing I could do something similar for her by working with her and the doctor as I did with my students and the teacher. By building a relationship and addressing her concerns in a way she understands. By giving her the confidence to make educated decisions about her health.
   As my interest in medicine grew, I worked in an oncology clinic. I remember hearing a breast cancer patient anxiously explain her dilemma about chemotherapy because she dreaded its side effects. The PA calmly took the time to listen to the patient’s concerns and elucidated, “Despite the chance of getting into a car accident, we do not quit driving. The necessity of driving outweighs its risks, similar to the necessity of chemotherapy. The dangers are not guaranteed, but the need cannot be delayed.” My mouth opened wide enough to show my wisdom teeth as I watched the patient relax and agree to have chemotherapy. At that moment, I knew the role I wanted in healthcare was to edify patients exactly like this PA did.
   Working with various providers in different specialties, I have seen how health care is a team effort, with every member’s efforts contributing to the patient’s care and recovery. I have enjoyed taking patients’ histories, encouraging them with a cheerful face, and celebrating their journey in their most vulnerable moments, but now I want to be a PA who educates patients and inspires their present to build a healthy future. Using my teaching assistant skills, I want to work with doctors to provide patients with evidence-based care, whether they have the flu, undergo chemotherapy, or take their last breath. As someone who grew up listening to the myths about modern medicine, I realize the depth of these seemingly harmless stories in each specialty and the importance of effectively educating people, which is what I will do as a PA. I will teach them that just as the risk of cleaning spilled paint is worth creating a painting, the risk of side effects is worth getting the flu vaccine.

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5. Erin says

   July 31, 2024 at 8:41 am

   School gave me an education, Christianity gave me morality, family and friends taught me love but medicine gives me purpose. One of my older brothers, Christopher, was a nurse for a few years before he passed away when I was 12. I treasure the stories he shared with me of patients and procedures that intrigued him which sparked my interest in medicine. It took me a couple years to hear about the Physician Assistant but after hearing about the work-life balance, prospective growth and graduate programs I was hooked. In college I began shadowing PAs in multiple specialty areas which only fueled my interest in the profession. So far I have had personal experience with PAs in emergency medicine, cardiothoracic surgery, neurosurgery, neurology, dermatology and also interviewed PAs in other specialties.

   I am ready to provide the high quality care that comes with becoming a physician assistant. I know that becoming a PA will enrich my knowledge of medicine, test my quick thinking and pull from the various settings I have worked in. Throughout my previous jobs as a tutor, resident advisor, patient transporter and medical assistant I have found myself wishing that I was in the provider’s shoes. I chose an undergraduate degree that concentrated in cognitive psychology which provided me with an emphasis on studying why humans behave the way we do. With a background in human behavior I have been able to relate to patients better and put them at ease in ways that may not otherwise be instinctual. Earning this degree also helped fine tune my ability to look within myself and as a result I gained more confidence in my decision to pursue this career.

   Through my job as a patient transporter and through my current job as a medical assistant I have had direct patient care. I am blessed to have worked in medicine in the capacities I have, and I would never discredit their necessity, but they are not where I want to stay. I want to collaborate with other providers to come up with a care plan, provide excellent treatment, and have the knowledge to feel confident in my decisions. Becoming a Physician Assistant will not only be a career goal for me but a life goal. I am ready to grow as a person and as a provider and I know that this career path will provide all that and then some.

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6. James Moore says

   July 29, 2024 at 7:23 pm

   My conclusion is incomplete but I am hitting a block when I reach it:

   If you were to ask someone where to find me during the summer months, they’d probably tell you to head to the beach. Whether I’m on a run, spending time with friends and family, or even at work, you’re bound to find me on the shoreline. If you go to the beach and don’t happen to find me, however, the things you observe there will tell you more about who I am and why I want to become a physician assistant.
   When you take your first sandy step onto the beach on a hot summer day, equipped with your beach chair, towel, and sunscreen, you’ll find yourself in the midst of a sea of people. Despite the close quarters, these beachgoers who are from a variety of backgrounds and different walks of life form a harmonious community. Their sense of camaraderie and compatibility reminds me of the students of John Winthrop Elementary School in Bridgeport, Connecticut, sitting crowded around on a small rug with me during storytime, captivated by every detail of the books I enjoy reading to them during my frequent visits. Volunteering in various public schools throughout Bridgeport as a member of Sacred Heart University’s Break the Cycle Club, has helped quench my thirst for being a service oriented young person. Through the work I do with this club, I have gained a greater understanding of the importance of providing compassionate, inclusive care for all people. This has solidified my desire to become a physician assistant, where I can make tangible differences in the lives of my patients, helping them get back to dipping their toes in the sand and ocean.
   If you can brace the often cold ocean water temperatures and decide to go for a swim, you may find yourself in some rough waters. You may get an adrenaline rush diving under crashing waves, or they may knock you down, leaving you kicking and struggling to come up for air. As an emergency medical technician, I often find patients in similarly vulnerable states, and I must work alongside a team of professionals around me, such as police officers, firefighters, lifeguards, and paramedics, to help bring aid to my patients.
   One particular incident stands out vividly in my mind. I was called to a scene where a man had one of his fingers be amputated. When I saw the blood spurting from his hand and his pale, shocked face, I knew the situation was dire. I immediately applied direct pressure to his wound to try to stop the bleeding while my partner took his vital signs and police officers cleared the crowd of onlookers. Through our coordinated team effort, we managed to slow the bleeding, control the scene, and monitor his mental and physical well-being. We reassured him that, although the situation was frightening, he was going to be okay. This experience underscored for me how crucial teamwork and communication are in healthcare. As a physician assistant, I will be able to collaborate with a diverse healthcare team, and this versatility that I have learned while being an EMT provides me the opportunity to work closely and effectively with patients and other healthcare professionals to help get people through the stormy seas that life can bring through empathetic and thorough treatment.
   If you manage to make it out of the ocean and avoid the aggressive seagulls, you can begin to appreciate the beach as a whole from your beach chair. The persistent, rolling tides, the bright rays of sun, and the soft sand caressing your feet may cause you to appreciate the balance and zen that the beach can provide. Finding the ability to achieve that kind of balance as an NCAA Men’s Division I Cross Country and Track and Field athlete was a big challenge for me. As a walk-on to the team as a freshman, I was one of the slower runners, constantly battling fatigue and injury while trying to maintain a strong academic record, keep up with my community service obligations, and deal with various family hardships at home. However, through resilience, dedication, and hard work, I fought my way up to being a team captain, a scholarship athlete, a critical point scorer for the team in championships, and an Academic All-District honoree. Being able to balance these diverse roles and continuously develop myself has prepared me for the multifaceted nature of a physician assistant’s duties. Just as a beachgoer feels balanced and at peace with the gentle waves and warm sand, I find a sense of fulfillment and purpose in balancing my academic pursuits, athletic commitments, and volunteer work. This equilibrium will enable me to provide knowledgeable and holistic care to my patients, ensuring they feel supported and understood throughout their healthcare journey.
   While I will likely not be tending to patients on the beach as a physician assistant, I am committed to bringing the qualities that the beach provides to patrons to my future patients. My diverse interactions and life experiences have helped me develop the skills, aptitude, and sensitivity towards my patients to help improve their lives.

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7. Madeline West says

   July 17, 2024 at 1:33 pm

   It is midnight. The remnants of a fun-filled day at Disney World still linger in my mind as I drift into sleep. Suddenly, a piercing scream shatters the tranquility: “Call 911!” Startled, I glance at the middle seat. My youngest brother’s body convulses, his breath halts, and his skin takes on a terrifying blue hue. My father pulls the car over as my mother, a seasoned registered nurse, swiftly intervenes, laying him on his side. In a flurry of panic, I dial 911, stumbling over my words. Within moments, the wail of sirens announces the arrival of paramedics and police officers. While my mother had imparted invaluable knowledge about medical emergencies, witnessing my brother’s grand mal seizure leaves me frozen in shock. Tears stream down my face as we rush to the hospital, an experience I never anticipated.
   Growing up, my mother served as my guide, sharing her wealth of nursing expertise. However, nothing prepares you for the stark reality of a medical crisis, especially when it strikes a loved one. My brother’s diagnosis of Benign Rolandic Epilepsy marked the genesis of my journey into the healthcare realm and ignited my passion for the health sciences. Although I initially pursued a Biology degree in college, I found it lacking fulfillment, leading me to transition to Health Sciences with a clinical focus—a decision that resonated deeply with me due to my newfound love of human anatomy and serving others. Amidst the tumult of the COVID-19 pandemic, I secured a job as a pharmacy technician, where I honed my skills and cultivated empathy for emergency protocols, I was able to participate in an immunization certification that allowed me to administer vaccines and COVID tests due to the high demand. I saw firsthand the effects of lack of insurance and the ongoing drug addictions that envelop most of the homeless. While I initially envisioned a career as a pharmacist, an encounter with a physician assistant altered my trajectory. Struggling with chronic knee pain following a fall, I sought medical attention, encountering a PA whose expertise and compassion left an indelible impression. I found out I have a condition, patellofemoral mal-tracking, and the pain had been set off by my fall and maturing of my bones. Collaborating with him over the past five years to manage my congenital ailment, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact of compassionate healthcare. His communication with his fellow team members and commitment to providing me with the best care possible helped me understand the true interpretation of a PA’s role. This transformative experience ignited a desire to pursue a path as a physician assistant, bridging my passion for patient care and my aspirations for lifelong learning.
   Transitioning to a nursing assistant role at Orlando Regional Medical Center, after finishing a phlebotomy program and receiving my certification, further solidified my decision to pursue healthcare. Amidst the clinical complexities, I discovered the significance of simple acts of compassion, from holding a patient’s hand in times of distress to engaging with nonverbal individuals with kindness. I was also able to further my clinical skill set by implementing my phlebotomy education and new training for patient care that included bedside needs, bladder scans, labs, vitals, and safety. During my time at ORMC, I have connected with PAs to create the greatest plan of care for patients and I have seen how dedicated they are to their profession and to their patients’ healthcare. These experiences underscored the pivotal role of a physician assistant in delivering holistic care, fostering a deep-seated connection with the profession’s ethos of advocacy and patient-centeredness.
   Moreover, I am drawn to the emphasis that the PA profession places on lifelong learning and continuing education. In a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, staying abreast of advancements and best practices is paramount to delivering superior care. With a love for medicine as a whole, I am drawn to the ability to provide in a wide range of specialties and surgical opportunities. As a prospective future PA, I am committed to pursuing ongoing education opportunities, leveraging my knowledge and expertise to educate patients, and advocating for health literacy within my community.
   Choosing a career reflects not only one’s aspirations but also one’s values and commitments. For me, the journey towards becoming a physician assistant represents a combination of personal experiences, academic pursuits, and a fervent desire to improve others’ health outcomes and lifestyle. It embodies a commitment to excellence, compassion, and collaboration, qualities that resonate deeply with my professional and moral aspirations. I know that in the future as a PA, my answer to how my day was will always be “life-changing.” Such a role gives me purpose and following my undoubted path is exhilarating. As I embark on this journey, I am eager to contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare and further my passion to invoke a positive change in the lives of others.

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8. Elizabeth James says

   July 15, 2024 at 8:34 pm

   “A little consideration, a little thought for others, makes all the difference.” – Winnie the Pooh. My earliest memory growing up is when I was four years old and needed to get stitches on my forehead. I mostly remember the traumatic part of it with my sister screaming when she saw blood streaming down my face and my dad rushing me to the ER. I only vaguely remember the provider explaining the process to my dad and making sure that he understood what was going to happen. Throughout the years when I have heard my dad tell this story he doesn’t talk about how scary the situation was and instead talks about how understanding, kind, and patient the provider was. Even years later the kindness and patience from one provider has not only remained with my dad but also with me.

   Going into college I was confident that I wanted to work in the medical field but did not know which path I wanted to take. Throughout my time as a medical scribe working in an ER and subsequently at an orthopedic surgeons office, I worked with countless doctors, PAs, nurses, nurse practitioners, and medical assistants. Seeing these providers show empathy, understanding, and compassion for patients from all walks of life called to me in a way that nothing else had before. I had found my calling and I knew that I would put all of my effort into becoming an empathetic, compassionate, and understanding healthcare provider. As a volunteer I have continued this mindset and take time to talk with patients and ensure they have everything they need to make their stay as comfortable as possible.

   My time in the Navy has been a driving force for me wanting to become a PA over all other healthcare fields. The first PA program was originally created to help former Navy corpsmen transition from military to civilian life while still being able to utilize the valuable skills they learned while serving. PAs continue to have strong ties to military and veteran communities, with the Department of Veterans Affairs being the largest employer of physician assistants. The PAs that I have encountered in my life have always shown the most patience and empathy for their patients. PAs that have provided me care have always taken time to listen, while PAs I worked with would often uncover new symptoms for patients because they would take the time to listen and understand the patient.

   Throughout my time in the Navy, as well as through my training for my MPH, I have learned patience, empathy, compassion, resiliency, and valuable leadership skills. Through conversations with my peers, leaders, and sailors I began to understand just how diverse we are, while my MPH helped me to understand how this diversity can affect a persons health. As a leader and instructor, I have to communicate with my sailors to understand these differences and ensure that they receive the mentorship and guidance that they need to become successful. Being a leader that leads with compassion and empathy can result in a significant amount of tension with others who do not hold the same values which has taught me patience, resiliency, and honed my communications skills in the face of adversity.

   Being active duty affords me a unique perspective and understanding of our military and veteran communities and the social determinants that follow them through their military and civilian lives. I have utilized this unique perspective through my internship for my MPH. My internship is focused on decreasing veteran suicides in northwest Florida. Through this I have spoken with numerous veterans and military members to not only help advocate for the suicide prevention programs but also communicate with community members to help them understand the unique needs of veterans and military members in distress. I have been able to advocate for expansion of veteran centric services for our veteran community.

   Throughout my undergraduate degree I became overwhelmed after the death of a grandparent and great-grandparents and began to focus more on gaining experience as a medical scribe than my academics. While I was gaining valuable experience my grades suffered. I do not have any excuses for not refocusing on my academics after failing a few classes. During my final semester of undergrad I dropped Anatomy to focus on courses that were required for my degree. After obtaining my bachelors degree I was rudderless and not confident in my abilities to go back to school which led to me joining the Navy. Through my time in the Navy I have learned time management and the importance of academics. With these lessons I have been able to excel in my MPH.

   Throughout my undergraduate degree, into my time as a medical scribe, and finally during my time in the Navy I have learned numerous skills that will help to make me a great PA. The empathy and compassion that I strive for on a daily basis for those around me will guide me towards being an empathetic and compassionate PA that takes the time to listen. My communication skills that I have learned not only as an instructor but also as a leader will guide me to effective and clear communications with patients and peers alike. Understanding the social determinents that a patient faces will guide me to always being respectful and patient no matter the persons background. For me, being kind, compassionate, and empathetic are cornerstones of being an exemplar PA.

   “A little consideration, a little thought for others, makes all the difference.” – Winnie the Pooh. My earliest memory growing up is when I was four years old and needed to get stitches on my forehead. I mostly remember the traumatic part of it with my sister screaming when she saw blood streaming down my face and my dad rushing me to the ER. I only vaguely remember the provider explaining the process to my dad and making sure that he understood what was going to happen. Throughout the years when I have heard my dad tell this story he does not talk about how scary the situation was and instead talks about how understanding, kind, and patient the provider was. Even years later the kindness and patience from one provider has not only remained with my dad but also with me.

   Going into college I was confident that I wanted to work in the medical field but did not know which path I wanted to take. As a medical scribe working in an ER and subsequently at an orthopedic surgeon’s office, I worked with countless doctors, PAs, nurses, nurse practitioners, and medical assistants. Seeing these providers show empathy, understanding, and compassion for patients from all walks of life called to me in a way that nothing else had before. I had found my passion and knew I would put every effort into becoming an empathetic, compassionate, and understanding healthcare provider. As a volunteer I continue this mindset by taking time to talk with patients and ensuring they have what they need.

   The Navy has been a driving force for wanting to be a PA over all other healthcare fields. The first PA program was originally created to help Navy corpsmen transition from military to civilian life while utilizing the valuable skills they had already learned. The PAs that I have encountered in my life have always shown the most patience and empathy for their patients. PAs that have provided me care always take time to listen, while PAs I have worked with often uncovered new symptoms for patients because they would take the time to listen and understand the patient.

   My time in the Navy, as well as through my training for my MPH, I have learned patience, empathy, compassion, resiliency, and valuable leadership skills. Conversations with my peers, leaders, and sailors shows just how diverse we are, while my MPH helped show how it can affect a person’s health. As a leader and instructor, I must communicate with my sailors to understand differences and ensure that they have the mentorship and guidance that is needed to be successful. As someone who leads with compassion and empathy, I have faced adversity with those who do not hold the same values which has built my patience, resiliency and honed my communication skills.

   Being active duty affords me a unique perspective and understanding of our military and veteran communities and the social determinants that follow them through their military and civilian lives. I have utilized this unique perspective through my internship for my MPH. My internship is focused on decreasing veteran suicides in northwest Florida. Through this I have spoken with numerous veterans and military members to not only help advocate for existing suicide prevention programs but also communicate with community leaders to help them understand the unique needs of veterans and military members in crisis. This has allowed me to advocate for expansion of veteran centric services for our expansive veteran community.

   Throughout my undergraduate degree I became overwhelmed after the death of a grandparent and great-grandparents and began to focus more on gaining experience as a medical scribe than my academics. While I was gaining valuable experience my grades suffered. I do not have any excuses for not refocusing on my academics after failing a few classes. During my final semester of undergrad, I dropped Anatomy to focus on courses that were required for my degree. After obtaining my bachelor’s degree I was rudderless and not confident in my abilities to go back to school which led to me joining the Navy. Through my time in the Navy, I have learned time management and the importance of academics. With these lessons I have been able to excel in my MPH.

   Through my undergraduate degree, into my time as a medical scribe, and finally during my time in the Navy I have learned numerous skills that will help to make me a great PA. The empathy and compassion that I strive for daily will guide me towards being an empathetic and compassionate PA that takes the time to listen. My communication skills that I have learned not only as an instructor but also as a leader will guide me to effective and clear communications with patients and peers alike. Understanding the social determinants that a patient faces will guide me to always being respectful and patient no matter the person’s background. For me, being kind, compassionate, and empathetic are cornerstones of being an exemplar PA.

   Reply

9. Reece M Meier says

   July 14, 2024 at 9:15 am

   I woke up with bacterial folliculitis on my scalp today, but this does not come as a surprise to me anymore. For the past 20 years, I have been facing all kinds of skin issues, from MRSA, eczema, and psoriasis to nodular and cystic acne. The visible nature of these conditions often led me to feel self-conscious and anxious. Dr. Boos was a positive aspect in all of this, reassuring me that we could get my symptoms under control and make me feel like my best self. Looking back at the time I spent with him and everything he did for me, I started to think about a future in healthcare. I wanted to do everything he had done for me and serve my community through their difficulties and be there for their triumphs. Over time, through work in healthcare and life experiences, I realized that becoming a Physician Assistant (PA) was the right thing for me.

   I was first introduced to the PA profession through my personal experience managing my various persistent skin conditions, which necessitated frequent medical appointments. With frequent appointments with urgent time frames, I found relief with consultations provided by PAs. Their holistic and patient-centered approach, involving thorough evaluation of my lifestyle factors and collaborative treatment planning, not only gave me a deeper understanding of the effective management of my condition but also highlighted the critical role PAs play in bridging gaps in healthcare delivery. My appreciation for the PA profession grew from this continuous, excellent treatment, which made me recognize their remarkable influence on patient outcomes and the collaborative nature that allows for well-timed treatment.

   Another reason I was enticed to join this profession was the ability to diagnose and prescribe for patients, PAs profoundly impact individuals’ lives, not only by providing medical care but also by offering emotional support through their holistic care. Witnessing firsthand the positive impact the PAs had on both my diagnosis and my mental health, I was inspired by their compassionate care and am eager to bring the same level of compassion and expertise to my future patients.

   Additionally, I want to join the PA profession because of the unique ability PAs have to work across various specialties. This versatility is incredibly appealing to me, as it offers the opportunity for continuous learning and growth in different areas of medicine. It also offers the possibility of a career change into a different specialty, ensuring that my professional life remains dynamic and fulfilling for years to come.

   The first step I took to bring the same passionate care I received was to become a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) at Seattle Children’s Hospital (SCH), where I had received care. My time as a CNA at SCH has given me invaluable experiences that I believe will make me a successful PA.

   In my role as a CNA at SCH, I have treated children from diverse backgrounds, including those with eating disorders. My focus with these patients is assisting in medical stabilization through nutritional rehabilitation. One memorable experience involved caring for twin patients diagnosed with anorexia nervosa, for whom the refeeding process was challenging. During mealtimes, I provided supervision to prevent compensatory behaviors like hiding food and excessive exercise. To support them emotionally, I engaged them in activities like board games and movies and encouraged them through their frustrations. When it was time for them to go home, their parents expressed gratitude for our support during their recovery, highlighting the impact we had on getting them to a healthier weight and a more positive outlook on their self-worth.

   This praise did nothing but increase my desire to continue a healthcare career, as I felt what I had accomplished with these patients mirrored what my care team had accomplished with me. While working with patients in the eating disorder progression, I had the important job of communicating with the nurses about the patients’ meal/supplement progression and any compensatory behaviors observed. This role emphasized the importance of communication and team care to achieve the best results for the patients and underscored the skills I have gained at SCH that will be valuable in the PA profession.

   To show my passion for becoming a Physician Assistant and providing healthcare in rural areas, I worked as a CNA at Pullman Regional Hospital (PRH) in the surgical and ICU units. My time at PRH was rewarding as it allowed me to get a better understanding of the unique challenges of rural healthcare and to see how the PA position is used to alleviate the lack of healthcare access. This decision was fueled by my genuine desire to make a positive impact and to gain a better understanding of why the PA profession is so vital.

   The opportunities I have had working in both densely populated and rural areas, the courses I have taken, and the life experiences I have faced have all helped prepare me to become the most compassionate provider I can be. By learning more about the field, I have become even more passionate about being a PA. My capacity for teamwork and ability to provide compassionate care were all enhanced by my time spent working as a CNA. These experiences that I have had over my lifetime will help me become an effective and compassionate PA.

   Reply

10. Veronica Leonardo says

    July 8, 2024 at 4:23 pm

    My passion for healthcare began at a young age when I became fascinated by my pediatrician in the Dominican Republic. Although I wasn’t frequently sick, my parents were always anxious given my asthma and a slight heart murmur. Therefore, our visits to the pediatrician, while not serious, were quite common. My pediatrician had a special way of explaining things to me, and I would often go home and sketch what I had learned after each appointment. During my teenage years, my father’s recurring hospitalizations due to his heart condition introduced me to the nursing profession and various medical specialties such as internists and cardiologists. It was during this time that I became certain of my aspiration to become a doctor. Growing up on a small island, where the nursing profession was more limited in scope compared to the United States, I was unfamiliar with the intricacies of the nursing profession in the U.S.

    I moved to the US with my mom and my two siblings when I was nine. Despite being far from the place where I first learned about medicine, I still held onto that dream as I grew older. In my senior year of high school, I attended a technical school that allowed me to intern at Woman and Infants hospital. During my internship, I learned about the various scopes of practice within the nursing profession, as well as other areas of the medical field like medical imaging and social work. However, my ambition was still to become a doctor. My dad lived in the Dominican Republic, and after graduating high school, I was conflicted about where I wanted to live. I took a gap year to figure out my path and eventually enrolled in a technical school to become a certified medical assistant, hoping to gain some experience in the medical field. However, the experience wasn’t what I had hoped for, so I decided to return to school and pursue an associate’s degree at our local community college. My interest in medicine began to wane, and I ultimately decided to pursue psychology. I was particularly interested in working with veterans. After obtaining my associate’s degree I joined the Air Force, to better connect with and understand the individuals that would be in my care.

    I didn’t realize it then, but this decision became a turning point in my life and my career. I was assigned the job of medical technician, or corpsman. After basic training, I went through medic training and became certified as an EMT. The last part of my medic training was a 3-month clinical rotation at David Grant USAF Medical Center (DG). While I was there, I met my first Physician Assistant! Initially, I didn’t fully understand the role or the distinction between PA vs a Nurse Practitioner. However, within the first month, I did extensive research and asked him what probably felt like thousands of questions. There it was, the feeling 9 year old me had when she came to this country excited about a dream! From there on I made it a point to learn from PAs in every rotation I was assigned to at DG, trying to understand how their roles varied across different specialties. After my training, I took the time to set myself on the right path with the help of the Air Force. I focused on my patient care experience and worked as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the Emergency Room, where I fell in love with critical care. Through the Air Force I became a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in July 2022, and I have been working as an LPN in various settings since then. Even though the Air Force offers many bridge programs for LPN to RN, my focus has never wavered from my original goal.

    This letter is an opportunity for me to tell you why you should give me a seat in your program, why I want to be a PA. I can tell you that you would be giving me the opportunity to fulfill what has been my childhood dream of becoming a medical provider. A dream that found its purpose in the PA profession and has been working to become a reality for the past 7 years. I have extreme desire and dedication to succeed in a career that has drawn me in since the moment I discovered it. The diverse path that has led me here has prepared me to take on this next challenge with enthusiasm, resilience and determination. I am confident that the values instilled in me by both my parents and the military, have prepared me for this next step in my career and will be the base I will build on to become the provider I have always aspired to be.

    Reply

11. Syd says

    July 5, 2024 at 7:35 am

    Instead of Barbies and tutus, I was intrigued by the complexities of the human body and how each part functions. At two, I received my first play toolkit after attempting to “surgically” correct my father’s crooked big toe in his sleep with a pair of plyers he had accidentally left out. I vividly remember running surgical simulations on my rainbow-striped zebra Webkinz doll one day after Pre-Kindergarten using an empty Yoo-hoo carton as a ventilator, the straw as an endotracheal tube, a star sticker for the IV, and a plastic butter-knife as the scalpel to mimic various procedures I had overseen while my mom would tune into the latest episode of Grey’s Anatomy. As I grew, so did my passion for medicine and science, as each science class brought new words of knowledge, excitement, and challenging ideas.

    My early childhood dream of going into medicine was often met with skepticism until I was reassured by my ninth-grade biology teacher on the dreaded frog dissection day. While most of the class gagged at the pungent smell of formaldehyde and the slime of the amphibious skin, I became intrigued and became the chief examiner teaching the next few classes how to conduct the dissection.
    My educational experiences solidified my path to becoming a physician assistant. I studied a plethora of rigorous subjects, including cancer biology, medical and veterinary entomology, bacteriology, comparative vertebrae anatomy, and microbiology. The versatility of my courses expanded my thought processes and challenged my ability to adapt and overcome when met with resistance; succumbing to failure was not an option. When reattempting organic chemistry, I sought new approaches to solving problems as I spent the summer flipping, expanding, and reducing carbon rings all over the page until a solution was met. With my experiences at Georgia Southwestern State University, I can confront an issue head-on by applying the same method I used in organic chemistry: persistence until an innovative solution is reached, one that both doctors and patients expect from their physician assistants.

    Georgia Neurosurgical Institute is where my desire to become a physician assistant was confirmed as I shadowed a surgical PA. This opportunity allowed me to see patients in the office after their operation and to see how much their daily lives have improved because of their procedures. In one particular instance shadowing at GNI, I remember a case where the patient had vision changes, problems with dizzy spells, and extreme fatigue, which their primary care provider had dismissed as symptoms of aging. The PA listened to the concerns of the patient, recognized the acute onset of these systems, and ordered an MRI of the patient’s brain, revealing a fast-growing golf ball-sized tumor in the patient’s left occipital lobe. When the PA asked if I wanted to scrub in to more closely observe the operation and assist with suction, I jumped at the opportunity, both intrigued and ready for whatever happened next. I assisted as the PA carefully shaved the hair surrounding the incision site, saving as much hair as possible, and swabbed iodine over the site. The next three hours were fascinating as a section of the skull was temporarily removed, the tumor was resected, and the removed section of the skull was carefully fixed back onto the head. The next day I had the pleasure of seeing the patient in the neurological intensive care unit, and the patient thanked the PA for saving most of their remaining hair as the patient showed us photos of their young child. Six weeks later, the patient came back in with their child for a follow-up office visit and was functioning again at full capacity and was cancer-free. This patient’s positive outcome was not only because of the PA’s ability to listen and respond appropriately to patient complaints, but also because of her reassuring, welcoming, and personable attitude towards the patients, personality traits I admire and find relatable.

    Being a surgical physician assistant would allow me to advocate for patients, solve their medical issues, and ensure that they have the best quality of life, which sometimes includes saving a few strands of hair to boost a patient’s confidence. My patients would benefit from my situational awareness, vested interest in their wellbeing, compassion, attention to detail, and steady hands, which were once used on my beloved first patient, a zebra Webkinz doll. In the future, my goal is to add a scalpel and needle driver to my tool kit so that I can make an impact on my patients’ lives. I believe I embody what Steve Jobs meant when he said, “Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”

    Reply

    • Stephen Pasquini PA-C says

      July 6, 2024 at 8:20 am

      Hi Sydney,

      Thank you for sharing your personal statement. Your essay demonstrates a lifelong passion for medicine and science, showcasing your journey from childhood curiosity to hands-on medical experience. Here’s some feedback. I will go section by section:

      Opening:
      – Your opening paragraph paints a vivid picture of your early fascination with medicine. The anecdotes about the play toolkit and your “surgical simulations” on your Webkinz are engaging and memorable.
      – However, be cautious about starting too far back in childhood. While these stories are charming, you might consider condensing this section to allow more space for your more recent, directly relevant experiences.

      Body paragraphs:
      – Your frog dissection experience in ninth grade is a good transition from childhood to more serious academic pursuits. It effectively shows your enthusiasm for hands-on scientific exploration.
      – The paragraph about your college coursework demonstrates your academic preparation well. However, consider being more specific about how these courses have prepared you for PA school or influenced your understanding of patient care.
      – Your experience shadowing a surgical PA is the strongest part of your essay. The detailed account of the brain tumor case effectively illustrates what draws you to the PA profession. Consider expanding on this section, particularly your reflections on the PA’s role and how it aligns with your goals.

      Conclusion:
      – Your conclusion ties back nicely to your opening, creating a satisfying full-circle effect.
      – The Steve Jobs quote is impactful, but consider replacing it with your own words about your commitment to the PA profession and your vision for your future career.

      Other suggestions:
      – While your writing is engaging, be mindful of overly flowery language or cliches. For example, “succumbing to failure was not an option” could be rephrased more directly.
      – Your essay focuses heavily on surgery. If you’re open to other specialties, consider mentioning this to show your understanding of the PA profession’s versatility.
      – If space allows, briefly address any patient care experience you have. This is typically a key component that admissions committees look for.

      Overall, your essay showcases your passion and commitment to becoming a PA. With some refinement to balance your early inspirations with your more recent, directly relevant experiences, you’ll have a compelling personal statement.

      Keep up the great work, Sydney!

      Best,
      Stephen

      Reply

    • Maya says

      July 7, 2024 at 12:27 pm

      Hey Syd,

      I would be wary about your writing as it closely resembles an essay submitted on this same platform. There are several sentences that are copied and pasted directly from that essay. While it is okay to refer to other personal statements for inspiration, CASPA checks for plagiarism closely and I would be extra cautious if I were you. Best of luck!

      Reply