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Single Edit One-on-one Service Supplemental Essays
Your success is our passion. (See just some of our 100's of testimonials and comments below). We are ready to help. Our current PA school essay editing service status (7th May 2024): Accepting New Submissions
(Photo: Me circa 1987, just thinking about my future PA School Essay)
- Are you struggling to write your physician assistant personal statement?
- Are you out of ideas, or just need a second opinion?
- Do you want an essay that expresses who you truly are and grabs the reader's attention in the required 5,000-character limit?
We are here to help perfect your PA school essay
I have written countless times on this blog about the importance of your personal statement in the PA school application process. Beyond the well-established metrics (GPA, HCE/PCE hours, requisite coursework, etc.), the personal statement is the most crucial aspect of your application.
This is your time to express yourself, show your creativity, skills, and background, and make a memorable impression in seconds. This will be your only chance, so you must get it right the first time.
For some time, I had been dreaming about starting a physician assistant personal statement collaborative.
A place where PA school applicants like yourself can post their PA school essays and receive honest, constructive feedback followed by an acceptance letter to the PA school of your choice!
I have been reviewing a ton of essays recently, so many in fact that I can no longer do this on my own.
To solve this problem, I have assembled a team of professional writers, editors, and PA school admissions specialists who worked to revise and perfect my PA school application essay.
Beth Eakman has taught college writing and worked as a professional writer and editor since the late 1990s. Her projects have involved a wide range of disciplines and media, from editing technical reports to scriptwriting for the PBS Kids show Super Why! Her writing has appeared in publications including Brain, Child Magazine, New York Family Magazine, and Austin Family Magazine. Beth lives with her family just outside Austin, Texas. She is driven to help each client tell the best version of their story and achieve their dream of becoming a physician assistant.
Deanna Matzen is an author with articles featured in Earth Letter, Health Beats, Northwest Science & Technology, and the Transactions of the American Fisheries Society. With an early career in environmental science, she developed a solid foundation in technical writing. Her communication skills were further honed by producing and editing content for a non-profit website, blog, and quarterly journal. Inspired to extend her craft, she obtained a certificate in literary fiction, which she draws on to build vibrant scenes that bring stories to life. Deanna loves working with pre-PAs who are on the cusp of new beginnings to find their unique story and tell it confidently.
Carly Hallman is a professional writer and editor with a B.A. in English Writing and Rhetoric (summa cum laude) from St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas. She has worked as a curriculum developer, English teacher, and study abroad coordinator in Beijing, China, where she moved in 2011. In college, she was a Gilman Scholar and worked as a staff editor for her university's academic journal. Her first novel, Year of the Goose, was published in 2015, and her first memoir is forthcoming from Little A Books. Her essays and creative writing have appeared in The L.A. Review of Books, The Guardian, LitHub, and Identity Theory, among other publications.
Read more client testimonials or purchase a revision
We Work as a Team
Our team of professional editors is wonderful at cutting out the "fluff" that makes an essay lose focus and sets people over the 5,000-character limit. Their advice is always spot-on.
Sue, Sarah, and Carly are amazingly creative writers who will take your "ordinary" and turn it into entirely extraordinary.
I mean it when I say this service is one-of-a-kind! We have spent countless hours interviewing PA School admissions directors and faculty from across the country to find out exactly what it is they are looking for in your personal statement.
We even wrote a book about it.
To collaborate, we use Google Drive. Google Drive is free, has an intuitive interface with integrated live comments in the sidebar, the ability to have a real-time chat, to collaborate effortlessly, and to compare, revise, or restore revisions on the fly. Google Drive also has an excellent mobile app that will allow you to make edits on the go!
Our team has worked with hundreds of PA school applicants within the Google Drive environment, and we have had enormous success.
The Physician Assistant Essay and Personal Statement Collaborative
I have set up two options that I hope will offer everyone a chance to participate:
- One-of-a-kind, confidential, paid personal statement review service
- A collaborative, free one (in the comments section)
Private, One-On-One Personal Statement Review Service
If you are interested in the paid service, you may choose your plan below.
The Personal Statement Review Service is:
- Behind closed doors within a private, secure network using Google Drive.
- It is completely interactive, meaning we will be able to provide real-time comments and corrections using the Google Drive interface.
- Telephone consultations are included with all edits above the single edit level. It’s often hard to communicate exactly what you want hundreds of miles away; for this reason, we offer the option to edit right along with us over the telephone while sharing in real-time over Google Drive. This is an option available to all our paid clients who purchase above the single edit level.
- We provide both revision and editing of all essays. What’s the difference? See below
- We will provide feedback, advice, and help with brainstorming and topic creation if you would like.
- We will help with a “final touch-up” before the big day, just in case your essay needs a few minor changes.
Why Choose Our Service?
- It’s not our opinion that matters. We have gone the extra step and personally interviewed PA school administrators from across the US to find out exactly what they think makes a personal statement exceptional.
- We are a team of PAs and professional writers, having worked over ten years with PA school applicants like yourself, providing countless hours of one-on-one editing and revision.
- Our clients receive interviews, and many go on to receive acceptance into their PA School of choice.
Because we always give 100%, we will open the essay collaborative for a limited number of applicants each month and then close this depending on the amount of editing that needs to be done and the time that is available.
Our goal is not quantity but quality. We want only serious applicants who are serious about getting into PA school.
Writing is not a tool like a piece of software but more like how a photograph can capture your mood. It’s more like art. The process of developing a unique, memorable personal statement is time-intensive, and it takes hours to compose, edit, finalize, and personalize an essay.
As Antoinette Bosco once said:
And this is why I am charging for this service. We love helping people find stories that define their lives, and we love helping individuals who have the passion to achieve their dreams. It’s hard to describe the feeling I get when an applicant writes back to tell me they were accepted into PA school.
There is no price tag I can place on this; it’s the feeling we get when we help another human being. It’s just like providing health care. But this takes time.
Interested? Choose your plan below.
Read more client testimonials.
Free Personal Statement Review
Post your essay in the comments section for a free critique
We want to make this opportunity available to everyone who would like help with their essay, and that is why we are offering free, limited feedback on the blog.
You post your essay in the comments section, and you will get our critique. It is that easy. We will try to give feedback to every single person who posts their COMPLETE essay here on this blog post in the comments section.
Also, by posting your comment, we reserve the right to use your essay.
We will provide feedback on essays that are complete and fit the CASPA requirements (View CASPA requirements here). We will not provide feedback on partial essays or review opening or closing statements. Your essay will be on a public platform, which has both its benefits and some obvious drawbacks. The feedback is limited, but we will try to help in any way we can.
Note: Comment Rules: Remember what Fonzie was like? Cool. That’s how we’re gonna be — cool. Critical is fine, but if you’re rude, I will delete your stuff. Otherwise, have fun, and thanks for adding to the conversation! And this should go without saying: if you feel the need to plagiarize someone else’s content, you do not deserve to go to PA school.
* Also, depending on the time of year, it may take me several weeks to reply!
We love working with PA school applicants, but don't just take our word for it!
How to submit your essay for the paid service
If you are serious and would like to have real, focused, and personalized help writing your personal statement, please choose your level of service and submit your payment below.
After you have submitted your payment, you will be redirected to the submissions page, where you can send us your essay as well as any special instructions. We will contact you immediately upon receipt of your payment and essay so we may begin work right away.
Pricing is as follows:
Choose your plan, then click "Buy Now" to submit your essay, and we will get started right away!
Every purchase includes a FREE digital copy of our new 100-page eBook, How to Write Your Physician Assistant Personal Statement, Our 101 PA School Admission Essays e-book, the expert panel audiobook, and companion workbook. This is a $65 value included for free with your purchase.
All credit card payments are processed via PayPal over a secure HTTPS server. Once your payment is processed, you will be immediately redirected back to the essay submission page. There, you will submit your essay along with some biographical info and all suggestions or comments you choose to provide. You will receive immediate confirmation that your essay has been securely transmitted as well as your personal copy of "How to Write Your Physician Assistant Personal Statement." Contact [email protected] if you have any questions, comments, or problems - I am available 24/7.
The hourly service includes your original edit and one-on-one time over Google Drive. It is simple to add more time if necessary, but you may be surprised at what a difference just a single edit can make. We find our four-hour service to be the most effective in terms of time for follow-up and full collaboration. We are open to reduced-rate add-ons to suit your individual needs.
Writing and Revision
All writing benefits from rewriting when done well.
When you are in the process of writing a draft of an essay, you should be thinking first about revision, not editing.
What’s the difference?
Revision refers to the substantial changing of text. For example, it may include re-organizing ideas and paragraphs, providing additional examples or information, and rewriting a conclusion for clarity.
Editing, on the other hand, refers to correcting mistakes in spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
On all submissions, we perform both revision and editing.
How to submit your PA school essay for the FREE editing service
Follow the rules above and get to work below in the comments section. I look forward to reading all your essay submissions.
- Stephen Pasquini PA-C
View all posts in this series
- How to Write the Perfect Physician Assistant School Application Essay
- The Physician Assistant Essay and Personal Statement Collaborative
- Do You Recognize These 7 Common Mistakes in Your Personal Statement?
- 7 Essays in 7 Days: PA Personal Statement Workshop: Essay 1, “A PA Changed My Life”
- PA Personal Statement Workshop: Essay 2, “I Want to Move Towards the Forefront of Patient Care”
- PA Personal Statement Workshop: Essay 3, “She Smiled, Said “Gracias!” and Gave me a Big Hug”
- PA Personal Statement Workshop: Essay 4, “I Have Gained so Much Experience by Working With Patients”
- PA Personal Statement Workshop: Essay 5, “Then Reach, my Son, and Lift Your People up With You”
- PA Personal Statement Workshop: Essay 6, “That First Day in Surgery was the First Day of the Rest of my Life”
- PA Personal Statement Workshop: Essay 7, “I Want to Take People From Dying to Living, I Want to Get Them Down From the Cliff.”
- Physician Assistant Personal Statement Workshop: “To say I was an accident-prone child is an understatement”
- 9 Simple Steps to Avoid Silly Spelling and Grammar Goofs in Your PA School Personel Statement
- 5 Tips to Get you Started on Your Personal Essay (and why you should do it now)
- How to Write Your Physician Assistant Personal Statement The Book!
- How to Write “Physician Assistant” The Definitive PA Grammar Guide
- 101 PA School Admissions Essays: The Book!
- 5 Things I’ve Learned Going Into My Fourth Physician Assistant Application Cycle
- 7 Tips for Addressing Shortcomings in Your PA School Personal Statement
- The #1 Mistake PRE-PAs Make on Their Personal Statement
- The Ultimate PA School Personal Statement Starter Kit
- The Ultimate Guide to CASPA Character and Space Limits
- 10 Questions Every PA School Personal Statement Must Answer
- 5 PA School Essays That Got These Pre-PAs Accepted Into PA School
- 7 Questions to Ask Yourself While Writing Your PA School Personal Statement
- 101 PA School Applicants Answer: What’s Your Greatest Strength?
- 12 Secrets to Writing an Irresistible PA School Personal Statement
- 7 Rules You Must Follow While Writing Your PA School Essay
- You Have 625 Words and 2.5 Minutes to Get Into PA School: Use Them Wisely
- What’s Your #1 Personal Statement Struggle?
- 31 (NEW) CASPA PA School Personal Statement Examples
- How to Prepare for Your PA School Interview Day Essay
- Should You Write Physician Associate or Physician Assistant on Your PA School Essay?
- Meet the World’s Sexiest PA School Applicants
- PA School Reapplicants: How to Rewrite Your PA School Essay for Guaranteed Success
- How to Write a Personal Statement Intro that Readers Want to Read
- PA School Reapplicant Personal Statement Checklist
- How to Deal with Bad News in Your Personal Statement
- Inside Out: How to use Pixar’s Rules of Storytelling to Improve your PA Personal Statement
- Ratatouille: A Pixar Recipe for PA School Personal Statement Success
- Personal Statement Panel Review (Replay)
- Mind Mapping: A Tool for Personal Statements, Supplemental Essays, and Interviews
- Start at the End: Advice for your PA School Personal Statement
Kelsey Sederquest says
I was seven years old when my great grandmother passed away from lung cancer. As a young girl I didn’t fully comprehend what cancer meant, but I knew one thing, it was destroying someone I loved from the inside out. I finally understood the severity of her illness the last time I saw her alive. Her once long and luscious black hair had withered away, her sunken eyes struggling to keep open and her once beautiful complexion now pale and gray. At this point she was bed ridden, barely able to utter a word or move a muscle. She was a beautiful and inspiring woman, who had spent a countless amount of time helping raise me. She had done so much for me and yet there was nothing I could do to help her. I was left with watching someone I love suffer from a terrible disease. Her illness was a life changing moment for me, my first time processing loss answered a question so many children my age have been asked time and time again, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”. Understanding loss meant understanding my future, and that meant a career in healthcare.
I started my healthcare career as a scribe in the ER while I was in college. As a scribe I was able to partner with the ER physicians to deliver efficient patient care through documenting in the EHR. I witnessed firsthand how a doctor thinks and processes information throughout the patient’s visit. One of the most influential days on the job was when the ambulance brought a patient with a gunshot wound to the head. I pressed myself up against a wall trying to stay out of everyone’s way while documenting, it was an adrenaline rush trying to keep up with the mayhem. In the end I experienced my first fatality in the ER, but it taught me how to remain calm under pressure in a chaotic and stressful environment, and also taught me the importance of teamwork in a time of crisis. Scribing is where I was first introduced to a physician assistant. As a scribe I was able to observe how a physician assistant worked alongside other physicians in the ER. From there I started researching more about PAs and from there I was hooked. I was amazed at the versatility and ability to practice different specialties and was drawn to the idea of team-based care. Being able to work in correlation with physicians while still experiencing autonomy in ordering diagnostic studies, performing physical exams and prescribing medications was everything I was looking for.
While in college I was a fulltime student athlete, which taught me skills such as teamwork, leadership and determination. This experience taught me how to face adversity head on and gave me the confidence to accomplish my goals. Volleyball also allowed me to become an active participant in the town’s community, as we coordinated many events and completed monthly volunteer activities as a team. This is where I fell in love with giving back to my community. With COVID limiting my ability to volunteer currently, I hope to be able to give more of my time to my community after the pandemic settles down.
COVID-19 impacted many people’s lives around the world significantly, and I was no exception. Faced with losing my job as a scribe and my college shutting down I decided to move back home to finish up my last couple months of college. After graduating I took a job as a medical assistant working alongside a physician assistant for an OB/GYN clinic. In preparation for PA school, becoming a medical assistant has allowed me to acquire vast knowledge about the medical field and taught me how to be efficient in a fast-paced work environment. One of the most important steps I took was learning to become more observant and compassionate towards patients. This opened my eyes to the more personable side of healthcare. I found that listening to patients’ concerns and building relationships with them was what I was most excited about becoming a PA. Working with underserved patients showed me the consequences of limited access to healthcare and has since motivated me to do more for patients and my community. By becoming a PA I will be able to educate and advocate for underserved populations by providing access to healthcare and improving quality of life.
While clinical and volunteer experience were very beneficial, it was shadowing that solidified my decision to become a PA. Shadowing allowed me to understand how to think critically in assessing a patient’s chief complaint while diagnosing and formulating a treatment plan. I was able to observe how to communicate and listen effectively when an elderly blind patient came into the clinic to get a basal cell carcinoma frozen off. I was amazed at the focus and time the PA took in giving her the best care she could provide and the relationship and trust she had built with the patient. It was this moment that made me realise just how essential and impactful the role of a PA is. Through becoming a PA I hope to make my great grandmother proud, and I hope she knows just how impactful she was on my life.
Therese Olshanski says
“On your marks!” Then, a moment so silent I could hear my heart beating. Bang! The gun went off, and I ran fast to get ahead of the 200 runners competing against me at NCAA Division III Cross Country Championships. I tried not think about the pain I felt in my back and hip or that the team doctor had hardly cleared me to race: This was where I was supposed to be. As I saw two teammates appear on both sides of me, I breathed a sigh of relief and settled into 6k pace. I stuck out my fists to give them a fist bump- our universal sign that we were in this together and ready to win another national championship. They glanced over at me, and I knew they needed my confidence and leadership now more than ever; I was a five-time American and a team captain, and I was prepared to lead my team to victory despite my injury. “Go Hop! Let’s do this!” I firmly said, making myself heard over the cowbells, bullhorns, and screaming fans. Determined, I raced through the mud in Louisville, KY to help Hopkins bring home its sixth national title.
Despite how bad my pain was during that 6k, it was nothing compared to hearing that I had fractured my sacrum. Back in Baltimore, I visited a sports medicine physician assistant for my pain. After intently listening to my complaints, she ordered imaging. With the help of the nurse and radiologist technician, she was able to diagnose my injury- a fracture on the left side of my sacrum. As a former athlete who had experienced an injury, she understood how difficult it would be for me to take time off from doing the thing I loved. Knowing she had persevered during a similar situation helped to ease my worry and helped me to trust in the healing process; I was now determined to come back from my injury healthier and fitter than ever. During my visit, I was also struck by the similarity between the healthcare team and my cross country team. While the PA was not the head of the team- like a doctor or a coach is- she was still able to lead and work together with the nurses and techs in order to get the proper diagnosis- similar to the position of a team captain. My experience with my injury and my experience shadowing orthopedic PAs showed me that becoming a PA was the right choice for me; I would get to use my leadership skills on a healthcare team and help other injured athletes through the difficult healing process, just as my PA did for me.
Excited to gain patient care experience and work on a healthcare team, I began working as a nursing assistant at a senior living home. Similar to my cross country team, our healthcare team worked together towards a common goal: providing the best care possible. However, caring for patients suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease proved to be difficult, as most patients communicated through facial expressions and body language rather than words. Just as grueling preseason workouts made my goals for nationals feel distant, some days of work at the senior living home made my goal of providing excellent patient care seem hard to achieve. One day, I found a resident lying on the floor in the hallway, unable to call for help. I checked her vitals and called the ambulance, but the only thing I could do to make her feel better was give her some pillows and her favorite doll. As she looked over at me, pained and confused, wondering why I was not doing anything to take away her pain, one thing became clear: Being unable to physically help her, I was determined to keep charging forward in my path to become a PA.
On this journey to becoming a PA, I am determined to take advantage of every opportunity to prepare for my future career and the rigors of PA school. Being a collegiate runner has not only taught me invaluable skills that I can use as a PA, but it has also earned me a full athletic scholarship while I complete my Master’s of Science in Anatomy. During this one-year program, I will be enhancing my scientific knowledge and becoming even more prepared for a challenging didactic year. I have running to thank for my interest in the PA profession, my determination to become a PA, and my future success as a PA student and provider. My pre-PA journey has been like a cross country race- hilly with ups and downs, but everything becomes worth it once I cross the finish line.
Macy Taney says
And as I sat there wiping my grandma’s buttocks and putting on her adult diaper, I remember thinking “this is not for me”. As a 12-year-old assisting my grandmother, who lived my family for eight years, that was not my defining moment. I knew I was meant to be in the medical field because of my constant hunger for learning and my passion for science. However, I spent most of high school and college believing that veterinary medicine was my calling. I was like a racing horse with blinders on; I solely focused on animal medicine.
It wasn’t until my junior year of college when a friend lacerated their foot and everyone in the room turned to me to help him. I jumped into action and assisted to stop the bleeding and get him to an ER. The next day I thought about how everyone knew that I could help him; everyone believed in me, except for myself. While veterinary medicine was the only field I had ever thought about, I thought of all the people in my life that I have helped with their medical journeys without even realizing. My parents both suffered from strokes and luckily, they are both still with us today. It was a great shock and I decided to educate myself on stroke patient’s treatments, medicines, and signs to look for. My two younger siblings, who were adopted from parents with substance use disorders, both have a multitude of disorders from their upbringing. I help them with daily medications and OT appointments. Being able to assist my grandmother in her geriatric care, my parents through their stroke recoveries, and my siblings with their mental health and developmental disorders, I was able to see a variety of medical professionals in their specialties. I had discovered that my passion for human medicine was always there, I just was not aware.
Although my work at the veterinary hospital was not hands on human health care experience, I believe I gained key skills that will help me as a PA. As a veterinary assistant, I was able to learn medical terminology and practice using them with the veterinarians and the clients. I also was able to watch and assist in examination and medical procedures. One key aspect of my job was being prepared for animal emergencies. I learned how to spike fluids, get together a catheter set up, and keep a calm head while the emergency came in. I also learned great interpersonal skills as I would talk to the clients to obtain the animal’s medical history and medications. I also learned how to talk about the difficult subject of euthanasia with the client, which I believe taught me how to use empathy with future patients. The two years I spent as a veterinary assistant not only helped influence me to go into the PA profession, but they also prepared me in many ways unlike those who took the more traditional health care route.
I realized that veterinary medicine was no longer my end goal; helping people was. My dad began to tell me about his PA that he absolutely loves and says that he sees a lot of me in her. My grandma, who is not one to just hand out her stamp of approval, also informed me how much she loved her PA and has a connection with him. As I shadowed both a physician in an office without PA and a PA in an office with joined PA and physician working together, I noticed a few things. The PA allowed the office to see double the number of appointments than the physician’s office and they were almost always on schedule. When the PA walked in the room, the patient’s remembered him and he was able to talk about their lives while examining them. Once the doctor walked in after him, they were still very nice, but I could tell that most of the patient had a closer relationship with the PA because they had the time to get to know them. It was that light that the PA brought into every room, that convinced me to become a PA.
I am very personable, and I love to put myself out there for the betterment of others. In high school, I was president of the Girls Athletic Association, a school organization which ran the games and assemblies for the school. I would be on the floor in front of hundreds of peers and teachers making jokes and dressing silly just in attempt to bring the school together. My senior year as I was leaving a girl came up to me and thanked me for giving her the courage to apply to be a part of GAA, even though she never thought she could. It dawned on me that I can use my outgoing personality to bring others out of their comfort zones. I believe that I can be an asset to PA schools because of this ability.
I believe that being a PA is all about stepping outside of one’s comfort zone. A PA must be confident to step into an exam room and observe the patient as they may not fully understand what a PA is. One also must be comfortable asking the physician for help when needed. The medical field needs help now more than ever and I want to be on the front lines in helping bridge the gap to better health care. If I can help just one patient, even if it is simply wiping their buttocks like I did for my grandmother, then it would all be worthwhile for me. If only I could go back and appreciate those times with my grandma and thank her for giving me a look into my future career as a healthcare worker. I want to be that PA who walks into a room and the patient’s face lights up because they know they will be getting the best care they can.
Ethan says
Would love a little feedback on my personal statement, think I need condensing early on… appreciate any help!
I ran back towards my house after swiftly retrieving my soccer ball from the neighbor’s yard, beginning to climb back over our fence. Suddenly, one of the support beams snapped and I fell forward, the sharp metal edges of the wire fence detaching from the wood and embedding themselves into my leg, ripping through my skin as I tumbled to the ground. I looked down to see blood flowing from the wounds, several large gashes covering my shin and calf, and I screamed to my little brother inside to call our parents who were out of town. My mother frantically reached out to a close friend, a doctor who worked at the only small medical center in town, only to find that they were closed for the weekend, and he was at home nearly half an hour away. I waited outside the facility with my neighbor who had driven me there, and to my surprise Dr. Gates pulled hurriedly into the parking lot, unlocked the doors and rushed me inside to help. This was the first time I had required serious medical attention, and without my parents beside me nonetheless. I was anxious and scared, but these negative feelings quickly disappeared, being interrupted only by brief pain when the needle passed through my skin as he stitched my wounds up. He spoke calmly and joked around to make me feel comfortable, and most importantly, his attitude never indicated that driving all the way into town to help me was a hassle for him. I left the facility with a yellow bandage wrapped around my lower leg, and a new dream to pursue a career in health care. I wanted to ensure that people are able to receive treatment and care whenever they need, and I wanted to make people feel the same way I felt in the empty doctor’s office that day, safe.
After shadowing an orthopedic physician for a few weeks in highschool, I spent years assuming that I would follow this path and eventually become an orthopedic surgeon. While this career certainly seemed like a great fit due to my interest in sports and health care, I never seemed entirely committed towards following this path. It wasn’t until my mother recommended looking into becoming a physician’s assistant that I would figure out what I was meant to do with my career. While researching the PA profession, I was immediately captivated by how well it matched my personality. Being a PA meant I would be working in collaboration with a team, have the option to work in different specialties, and most importantly, be able to spend more time building relationships with patients.
With each passing day at our clinic, I became more aware of the qualities that I believe would make me a great PA. I thrive in a busy setting, having to work up patients quickly but thoroughly over the course of the day. This fast moving environment forces me to remain focused, as my personable character means I love to interact with patients. Without much time to chat and get to know everybody I see, I have learned to find a great balance between quickly obtaining pertinent medical information and conducting basic examinations while ensuring that the patient feels comfortable and supported during their visit.
As time passes, the medical field seemingly continues to shift towards a system which relies on team work and collaboration. With the responsibilities of PAs being so deeply rooted in a collaborative framework, this is an aspect where I believe I will thrive. Throughout my life I have always been a member of a team, playing soccer for as long as I can remember, but I was not always the best team player. It was not until I reached the college level, and saw less of the field than I ever have before, that I realized that I needed to influence my team in a different way. By doing little things that allowed other players to start their recovery faster or receive good preparation for upcoming games, I always strove to be the best teammate I could be. This has carried over to my career post-athletics, as I try to apply this tactic towards my job as a medical assistant. By cleaning our imaging instrument whenever I have free time, or attaching patient’s files to their charts if my coworkers are busy, I feel I am able to have a positive impact on the flow of the clinic throughout the day. This allows me to continue to feel like a great teammate and thrive in a busy setting, helping my coworkers and doctors complete their tasks and exams efficiently.
Success in the medical field is not attainable solely due to one’s excessive desire to do good things for others. It is important to find a career in which your interests and personality allow you to do your best work, and in healthcare, that means helping others. While the individual aspects of being a PA are certainly enthralling to me, I am more captivated by how well my personality fits with this profession. Becoming a PA means I will get to continue being a great teammate and supporting others in the workplace. Becoming a PA means I will have more time to connect with patient and build meaningful relationships with them. Unquestionably, becoming a PA will allow me to do my best work.
Hailey Dolphin says
Leading a meaningful life is significantly influenced by finding a purpose. At a young age, I began to find my purpose after forming a growing relationship with Betty, an elderly woman that lived in my neighborhood. As Betty’s health began to decline, she was reluctant to ask for help, but I wanted to support her through the hardships she encountered. The days of helping her with housework and other tasks quickly blossomed into a friendship, followed by daily conversations that allowed me to connect with her and let her know she had someone she could depend on. The sense of fulfillment I received from improving her quality of life, combined with her utmost gratitude, led me to pursue my first employment opportunity with patient care.
I began working as a home health caregiver and contributed thousands of hours of care for community members, including those with paralysis, multiple sclerosis, dementia, and generalized weakness. As a caregiver, I provided clients with assistance in activities of daily living, but also learned that going the extra mile, such as caring for their pet or playing their favorite card games, made a considerable impression. I often receive letters from my clients and their families thanking me for giving exceptional care and extending empathetic compassion to them. During the pandemic, the homecare business experienced a shortage of workers, so I consistently worked 50 hours a week, while also completing online coursework as a full-time student, to ensure clients got the care they relied on. This taught me how to manage my time efficiently, and on top of being a collegiate athlete, I have maintained a grade point average of 3.91.
After holding volunteer positions at hospitals, the desire to fulfill my purpose of providing exceptional care to others only grew stronger. I attended classes to become a Certified Nursing Assistant and began working at an assisted living facility, specializing in memory care. Caring for residents with dementia taught me the importance of patience, listening, and positive encouragement. Ensuring residents could stay in contact with their family through the midst of the pandemic, with FaceTime calls or letters, showed that the small things go a long way in making someone’s day brighter.
My current position at Saint Luke’s Hospital as a nursing assistant has helped me gain experience in different areas of the hospital. Each day, I have the opportunity to work alongside various people and have grasped the importance of teamwork and communication. It has also taught me that every employee in a healthcare setting plays a vital role in the patient’s experience. My purpose is fulfilled each day by making an impact on patient’s lives in some of their most vulnerable moments. I have a noteworthy ability to connect with my patients and make them feel at ease, even those that are resistant to care or express negative feelings towards being in the hospital. A patient I recently encountered on the pulmonary unit had refused care from everyone on staff until I was assigned to his care team. I listened to him, took adequate time to explain my role, and eventually, he allowed me to check his blood sugar and vital signs. He was critically hypoglycemic and I successfully encouraged him to allow the nursing staff to treat it. From there, I learned to de-escalate situations that involve anger and sadness, and through these experiences, I understand the importance of patient advocacy and support.
Before the pandemic, I was focused on medical school and had shadowed various physicians at local hospitals for approximately 30 hours. Unfortunately, I was not able to shadow physician assistants because of COVID-19 restrictions this year but have spoken with several people in the profession. After these discussions, I decided that I would like to pursue this career because it allows me to work in a team-based system and have a greater focus on patient care. As a physician assistant, I would be able to use my clinical expertise to take on more responsibilities, while also sustaining valuable connections with patients. This position is appealing because I would be qualified to work in a variety of medical specialties, offering flexibility throughout my medical career. Therefore, lessons learned and attributes gained from several years of patient care would shape me into a physician assistant who is well-versed in a variety of areas and could confidently treat patients while maintaining a collaborative relationship with physicians.
One of the most meaningful lessons I have learned while working in direct patient care settings is that each client, resident, and patient is a person with their own story and purpose in life that extends beyond the walls of the hospital. Even through short encounters with patients, my ability to help them reconnect with the things that are meaningful in their life is one of my greatest attributes. In turn, this allows me to experience joy in pursuing a career in healthcare as a physician assistant.
Eva Batenhorst says
I would so appreciate any help with my personal statement! Thanks!
Ever since I was little I have been a curious creature, always asking questions, always trying to find the answer to anything and everything. My teachers inevitably thought I talked too much and my parents grew weary of hearing “why?” flow out of my mouth a thousand times a day. But then I found an outlet for all my curiosity and wonderings, an outlet that enabled me to use my questions to fix problems: science.
Science has fascinated me since my first lesson. It was, and still is, a never ending process of finding new answers to me. Each new science book brought a new world of knowledge, excitement, and change; they allowed me to expand my mind while nurturing my curious nature. Just as the animals I learned about evolved, my mindset did too. Ask, experiment, results, ask, experiment, results. This became the process by which I took all the answers I had gathered and learned what to do with that information. It evolved my “why?” into “what now?”
It wasn’t until my grandfather was diagnosed with cancer that I realized how to use my determination and love for learning to make a real difference. I remember witnessing the oncology and surgical teams patiently listen to every last question asked by my family and give their best answers along with their medical plan. A group of curious, innovative doctors and physician assistants brought science to life for me, made my well loved process of asking, experimenting, looking at results, a life or death situation that gave us many more years with my grandpa.
Attending Western Oregon University (WOU), continued my education and solidified my focus on being a physician assistant. Taking a slew of science courses and working on a biology research team opened my mind and prompted me to think in ways I never had before. Courses such as organic chemistry, physics, anatomy and physiology, and microbiology equally supported and challenged my curious mind. After every exam, lab, or quiz that didn’t go as well I wanted, I had to rely on my trusty “what now?” instinct I had nurtured all my years. Instead of giving up when I failed, I looked for new approaches and remained resilient. I would camp out by my professors doors to ask questions. I started forming and leading study groups because I knew I could learn from other students’ questions and they could learn from mine. My ability and passion to look at a problem and ask myself enough questions to find the answer drove me to scholastic success. By leading study groups, I was able to use that ability to help my fellow classmates do the same. My desire to grow and learn extended far beyond the classroom and opened many doors into biological research, student leadership, and volunteerism at WOU. These experiences allowed me to engage with diverse and underserved communities, work and learn with various faculty and staff, and grow into a self assured, well rounded individual.
After college, I quickly became a Certified Nursing Assistant at a skilled nursing facility to get hands-on experience working with patients and other medical professionals. As a CNA, I get exposure to many patients, all different and with unique needs and standards of care. Relying on my strengths of adaptability and a good work ethic, I spend time with my patients, understand their points of view, form a connection with them, and give them the best quality care I can possibly provide. I have also experienced the necessity of teamwork in quality patient focused care. The most evident time was working in our COVID-19 unit in december of 2020; the camaraderie displayed surpassed all expectations, as the nursing staff worked relentlessly to support and care for each other and our patients. It was an incredibly humbling experience because all I wanted to do was fix all of my patients’ ailments and symptoms but there was only so much we knew about COVID-19 at the time. Being in the COVID-19 unit was a personal reminder that healthcare professionals can push to the limits of science and their medical ability and still not come up with a solution to their problem. This realization was humbling and motivating to me. As a future physician assistant, I want to always use every tool in my belt, look for the answer in every last corner to try and meet my patients’ goal.
Being a PA interests me in many aspects: level of autonomy, job satisfaction, ability to change specialties, being challenged, and learning new skills. Shadowing a PA at a skilled nursing facility was the final reassurance I had found my future vocation. Through this experience I am able to see how she interacts, assesses, and forms plans of action for her patients. Comprehensively learning about the position, I gained experience in patient interaction, chart scrubbing, reviewing labs, medication changes, and charting. I’ve learned the importance of working collaboratively as a team, taking detailed notes, learning medical terminology, showing compassion to my patients, and communicating effectively to both the patients and my collaborating physicians and nursing team. I believe being a PA is my route to continue to be a lifelong learner, maintaining the urge to always ask “why?” from little girl to healthcare professional.
Whitney Prosperi says
Eva,
You are off to a good start.
I would suggest adding even more detail to your paragraph about shadowing. Describe an interaction between patient/PA or supervising physician/PA that confirmed your decision.
Also, add a separate paragraph that details what appeals to you about the profession. I know you mentioned some things here, but can you expand on this some more?
Also, I would add a patient care story that shows you in action performing clinical care of some kind while connecting with a patient on a personal level. You want to show some of the characteristics that will make you an effective PA. You may also want to mention your desire to do more for patients.
I wish you good luck in the process, Eva!
Vanessa Arenas says
Since the age of 14, I knew I wanted to pursue a profession in human services, had a goal to attend graduate school, and start my career once my degree was completed. I reached my goal at the age 23 as a first-generation Latina, an alumnus from Boston University, and a master’s level professional as a mental health therapist. In an ideal world, one would have accomplished their goals and should be satisfied with their achievements. Ten years later, I decided I wanted to do more in psychiatric healthcare and realized I have barely touched the tip of satisfaction regarding my professional endeavors. This is one of the many reasons why furthering my education as a PA is essential.
As an undergraduate at BU, I was determined to become a psychiatrist. However, through personal enlightenment I came to realize that medical school was not meant for me. I knew I was being influenced by others to achieve a prestigious Doctor of Medicine degree, but my intuition told me that was not my path. Thus, I decided to continue in the field of psychology. During my junior year I interned at Casa Esperanza, a bilingual substance abuse treatment program. My first encounter with a patient was a young lady who was dual-diagnosed and was having a tough time adjusting to a residential treatment program. At the time, I was shadowing her therapist and it was my task to observe their therapy sessions. It was amazing to see the connection between two individuals who are in different walks of life come together as one in a professional helping relationship. It was the first time in my life when it became crystal clear that I had a passion for helping others. The more time I spent at the internship, the more I wanted to learn about individual and group therapy. I was fortunate to have this clinical experience which settled by intuition and which made it clear – I needed to become a mental health therapist.
In May 2011, I accomplished this goal and became a mental health therapist. Many of the patients I worked with throughout the years have been prescribed psychotropic medications, which helped them manage their DSM-V symptoms. There were times I struggled through individual therapy due to a lack of patient education and proper documentation pertaining to their psychopharmacological treatment. Patients often had difficulty concentrating and complained about the ineffectiveness of their medication. These experiences have best suggested that a combination of psychopharmacology and therapy is vital to provide every single patient the proper holistic treatment plan they deserve. Nevertheless, that would only occur in an ideal world. We live in a society where these settings are only deemed accessible through having superior healthcare insurances. There may be an individual who is receiving services in two outpatient settings: because the number of practitioners who accept their insurance may be limited. I was educated through these encounters that I wanted to further help individuals, aside from therapy.
Through furthering my education as a PA specializing in psychiatry; I strongly believe I can make a difference in an individual’s life and the services they receive. I am especially interested in treating patients in the underserved Latino community by providing services in Spanish. While it might not make a big difference in the large scheme of medicine, it certainly can make a difference on an individual level, which ultimately is what I wish to accomplish professionally. While I want to change the community as a whole; it can only be done through bits and pieces on a small scale. Through these small changes a bigger change will prevail inevitably.
Working at a non-profit organization catered to the Latino community emphasized the significance of making small significant changes, which yields to an impact on the community. This agency was close to non-existent about 20 years ago but now is renowned in the state of Massachusetts for its services and impact on the Latino community. Over the last ten years I have witnessed how one person can make a difference in an individual’s life, which then becomes evident through that individual’s involvement in their community. One example is when I had been facilitating the women’s trauma group at Casa Esperanza. It overwhelmed me with joy when these women were graduating from the group and spoke about the impact the group has had in their lives. Moreover, it gave me personal satisfaction when they spoke about the difference I made in their lives as group leader. Six months later these same women were helping other women who are just starting their recovery process; proof that my efforts on a small level can in fact impact the community at large. For this reason, I will continue my education as a PA to provide the complete services these individuals need and deserve. My mission in life now is not bound by my personal gains but by the overarching impact I know is possible.
Whitney Prosperi says
Vanessa,
Your passion to make a difference shines throughout your essay!
I would suggest condensing where you can so you have room to add a few more elements to your essay.
Include a paragraph that details what appeals to you about the PA profession. (more time/contact with patients? ability to switch specialties? flexibility and expanding care?)
If you have any shadowing experience I would also include a paragraph that details that. What did you observe between PA/patient or PA/supervising physician that confirmed your decision? If you don’t have any shadowing, what did you observe through working with PAs?
I’m not saying you need this, but should you want more help remember that we are taking submissions for our essay revision service. I wish you good luck, Vanessa!
Kimberly Reid says
Struggling deeply with my writing. Any tips would be so appreciated!
“Black, American Indian, and Alaska Native (AI/AN) women are two to three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women,” this is just one of the many racial health disparities in the United States. Many individuals that come into the healthcare field have a “why” that drives them to come to work each morning. Millions of peoples “why” are typically because they enjoy helping people. There are many aspects and ranges we can all help people on a daily basis such as social workers, therapists, realtors to helping bag groceries, donating, and volunteering at shelters. I aspire to be a physician assistant, a woman of color that will help underserved communities to decrease the gap in healthcare disparities. To be able to give comfort to people of color so they feel comfortable going to healthcare providers with their best interest in mind. To be able to have laterality between specialties so I am able to help in more than one specialty over the course of a lifetime.
I am currently the only black, female medical assistant at APDerm in Norwood, Massachusetts. This is not uncommon for me due to being raised in a predominantly white community. A patient suffering from female pattern alopecia later ruled out to traction hair loss following a punch biopsy, was in the office for her follow up appointment. At the appointment that I insisted on scribing for, she was referred to a specialist because my provider was unsure of product and proper hair care treatments suitable for the patient’s hair type. I could see the disappointment in the patient’s eyes yet, she continued to maintain a smile the entire visit. We wished the patient the best of luck and exited the room. Having a very similar hair type to the patient I really wanted to pull her aside and speak to her about her hair care regimen cause from what she told the provider I knew the mistakes she was making due to the trial and error I experienced with my hair. As she passed my desk I said “hey where did you get your wig from if you dont mind.” That one simple question sparkled an entire conversation about hair care. She told me how happy she was when she saw a woman of her color walk into the appointment and kept praying that I would pull her aside so she could ask for recommendations. I still informed her to see the specialist, especially since the specialist is a black woman herself but I gave her some recommendations in the meantime. This encounter is not uncommon for me as well. Since moving home after college I have had majority of minority patients tell me they have felt more comfortable with their care due to me being in the room.
A physician assistant is a mid level healthcare provider that is able to diagnose, manage treatments, and prescribe medications with the ability to have laterality between specialties. Only 10% of physician assistants are minorities, 27.9% of doctors and 24.7% of nurses. Every new Physician assistant, nurse or doctor that is a minority will be able to better serve the underserved communities. This will allow patients of color to feel secure when a provider is a person of color as well. As a Pre- PA student in Massachusetts I was unable to find little to any Physician assistants of color in the state. I do not have any recommendation letters from a physician assistant because I have not shadowed and/or worked alongside a physician assistant for a time period I deemed long enough for them to properly write a letter for me. Along with little to no Physician assistants of color, the Pandemic brought many difficulties in finding shadowing experience for the safety of the patient, healthcare provider, and myself. *
To become a Physician assistant a high level of academia is needed to assure a student will be able to progress efficientlyl through the program, thus I am here to explain the discrepancies in my transcripts. My Junior year in college I experienced a medical issue I do not wish to disclose. I was lucky to have a supportive preceptor in my program, but I still found myself falling into a depression for over a year. Following college I had to return home due to my mother having an unexpected child. I had never completely mentally recovered from my medical problem. In 2020 the pandemic swept the world. I began working two jobs, taking classes, and helping take care of my younger brother which was a full time job in itself. At the end of 2020 I was finally able to afford a therapist that was a woman of color. I received the help I needed and was also able to end the Spring semester of 2021 with all A’s. In Spring of 2020 I was still working two jobs and taking care of my younger sibling, but this is a true representation of my academic skill. With my background in athletic training I know I am able to multitask, thrive under pressure, and stay calm when circumstances are not ideal. I have learned that mental health should not be ignored. I look forward to showing my academic excellence as a future physician assistant student.
Whitney Prosperi says
Kimberly,
I can tell that you are good at connecting with people.
I would suggest condensing where you can throughout your essay so you have room to add some elements to your essay.
I would add details that describe how you arrived at your decision to pursue the PA profession.
Also, I know you don’t have any shadowing experience to write about, but you can still include some details about what you have observed through working with PAs. What about interactions that you have witnessed have confirmed your decision? Write up a paragraph about how observing PAs has strengthened your decision.
Also, you are right to address your grade issues. I would suggest condensing some in this section as well. Include some of the gains that you have made since this period.
I’m not saying you need this, but should you want more help we are taking submissions for our essay revision service.
I wish you good luck in the process, Kimberly!
Kimberly Reid says
Thank you so much!
Danielle Martino says
I sat next to my three-year-old nephew in the hospital bed, his hair sticking up wildly, his tongue red from the popsicle he had recently been given. Just a few moments earlier his eyes had been wide with fear. The doctor ameliorated his anxiety, whispering to him that she had a secret, super-powered rainbow stethoscope. My nephew giggled, transforming back to his usual self. I was hit with a wave of feeling, a knowing that sent tingles throughout my body. This. This is what I want to do.
Whispers of becoming a PA had tugged at me before, when I first learned of the profession, shortly after completing graduate school for clinical psychology. I knew from experience how the fantasy of a certain career could diverge from the actual reality, so the chance to gain exposure to a wide gamut of clinical specialties without first declaring a specific area of focus, spoke to me. The potential to specialize in more than one area or shift disciplines throughout my career fed my insatiable curiosity, and the opportunity to directly interact with patients in a medical capacity, while working with a team to share knowledge was something that would offset the gaps I felt in psychotherapy. But I suppressed the alignment I felt, refusing to entertain the thought. The timing was off. I let fear tell me I could not, and should not, start over. Yet, as I sat next to my nephew that day, I could no longer ignore the pull. I decided it was more important to begin again, and pivot, rather than stay stuck. The clarity and sureness I felt that day, akin to a picture frame being righted and the relief of something clicking perfectly into place, ignited a fire in me to begin pursuing this new path.
I have always been called to heal, which is why I became a psychotherapist in the first place, but after coming to better understand myself I began to see that psychotherapy only fulfilled parts of me. While it is true that I am just at the precipice of my journey in the medical field, I believe I can have more of a direct impact on helping patients as a PA. I am drawn to the more concrete underpinnings and hard science that accompany the PA profession. I thrive more on structure and problem solving. I feel enlivened by the study of medicine in a way that is unparalleled. Throughout my microbiology class, I would spend hours lost in the pages of research on different aspects of B. burgdorferi, far beyond what was required because I felt an insatiable pull to dive deeper with each new tidbit of information I gleaned.
When I experienced intense pain and swelling in my foot that prevented me from walking for months, I sought out numerous physicians to uncover the root of the problem. I went to podiatrists, neurologists, and orthopedists with no relief. The neurologist was convinced that my symptoms were psychosomatic. I had others tell me I would need to use braces to walk for the rest of my life. I felt hopeless, defeated, and ignored. I knew my body, and I knew that the diagnoses did not add up. I heard the echoes of my calculus teacher’s voice: “You are like a dog with a bone Danielle.” I would not let this go. I was determined to find what was missing, and I would do this for my patients. In my own case, I took it upon myself to research and find the answers I was looking for, tentatively diagnosing myself with psoriatic arthritis. My diagnosis was confirmed by a rheumatologist, and I was put on the correct medication, alleviating my pain. I went from being a young woman in my 20s who was unable to hike, exercise, walk her dog, or enjoy time with friends, to having my life back. I want to be that person for others.
Similarly, when I was told that I may have MS and was sent to a specialist who told me, “You do not have MS now, but you could get it,” I felt the anxiety rise in my chest. More than anything, I wanted to be told I did not have MS, but the vague explanation I received felt like the floor was being pulled out from under me.. I wanted to shout, “You are my doctor! I am scared. Explain this to me. Guide me. Help me understand.” Instead, I decided the only way to alleviate my fear and loss of control was to gain more knowledge. I dug into medical research when I came upon the diagnosis of Clinically Isolated Syndrome. All the pieces fit. I received confirmation that I did, indeed, have Clinically Isolated Syndrome. I later went on to find an MS specialist who worked with a PA, and the experience was vastly different. When the PA entered the room, I felt like the cloak of invisibility I had been wearing disappeared. She saw me, and really heard me. I no longer felt alone. It was the first time in months that I felt hope again. I could relax and focus on healing, letting my healthcare providers take the reign.
These medical obstacles served as messengers. Each trial supported and strengthened my affinity for medicine and trust in myself. With each hurdle, I recognized my innate instincts for diagnosing, and was reminded of my aptitude for soaking up medical knowledge and directly applying it. Most importantly, my medical trials serve as reminders of the PA I want to be for my patients. I want to be the calm in the storm. I want to help them feel seen, and serve as a guide, engaging them in dialogue around their treatment, and help them towards solutions that make them feel whole again.
Throughout my life I have been plagued with indecision and a loss of connection to my true self}; yet, with medicine, I am reminded of who I am. The uncertainty falls away and I am filled with confident lucidity. It feels like the difference between walking through the world with an astigmatism, seeing everything in slightly blurred vision, and putting on glasses for the first time. The epiphany I had that day sitting with my nephew was like a lightening bolt that shook me awake. I could finally see how all the pieces fit together and the purpose I was meant to fulfill.
Whitney Prosperi says
Danielle,
Your personal strength shines through in your essay.
I would suggest condensing where you can so that you can add some more elements that spotlight your journey.
I would add a paragraph that describes any shadowing experience you have. What did you witness in the interactions between PA/supervising physician or PA/patient that affirmed your decision? If you don’t have any shadowing experience, describe what you have observed through working with PAs.
I would also describe a patient care experience that shows you in action connecting on a personal level.
Also, I am sorry about the unfortunate experience you had with that doctor. I would suggest softening your language a bit though so that it does not appear you are being critical of another provider. It is best to stay positive in a personal statement.
I like how you tied your conclusion back to your introduction, but would eliminate your comment about being plagued with indecision since, again, it is best to stay positive in your essay.
I’m not saying you need this, but remember we are taking essay submissions for our revision service should you need more help.
I wish you good luck, Danielle!
Vanessa Arenas says
Since the age of 14, I knew I wanted to pursue a profession in human services, had a goal to attend graduate school, and start my career once my degree was completed. I am now a 34 year-old first generation Latina, an alumnus from Boston University, and a master’s level professional as a mental health clinician. Needless to say, in an ideal world, one would have accomplished their goals and should be satisfied with their achievements. In reality, I have barely touched the tip of satisfaction regarding my professional endeavors. This is one of the many reasons why furthering my education as a nurse practitioner is essential.
As an undergraduate at BU, I was determined to finish the pre-medical requirements needed for medical school because I wanted to become a psychiatrist. However, through personal obstacles I came to terms with myself that medical school was not meant for me. Thus, I decided to continue in the field of psychology. During my junior year I interned at Casa Esperanza, a bilingual substance abuse treatment program. My first encounter with a client was a young lady who was dually diagnosed and was having a tough time adjusting to a residential treatment program. At the time, I was shadowing a clinician who was assigned her case and it was my task to observe their therapy sessions. It was amazing to see the connection between two individuals who are in different walks of life come together as one in a professional helping relationship. It was the first time in my life when it became crystal clear that I had a passion for helping others. The more time I spent at the internship, the more I wanted to learn about individual and group therapy. I was fortunate to experience what it was like to manage a case and facilitate a group, which made it clear – I needed to become a clinician.
In May 2009 I accomplished this goal and became a mental health clinician. Many of the clients I worked with were prescribed psychotropic medications, which helped them manage their Axis I and II diagnoses. There were times I struggled through individual therapy due to a lack of proper documentation pertaining to said medications. Clients often had difficulty concentrating and complained about the ineffectiveness of their medication. These experiences have best suggested that a combination of psychopharmacology and therapy is vital to provide every single patient the proper holistic treatment plan they deserve. Nevertheless, that would only occur in an ideal world. We live in a society where these settings are only deemed accessible through having superior health insurances. There may be an individual who is receiving services in two outpatient settings: because the number of practitioners who accept their insurance may be limited. I was enlightened through these encounters and realizations that I wanted to further help individuals, aside from therapy. Through furthering my education as a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health nursing; I strongly believe I can make a difference in an individual’s life and the services they receive. While it might not make a big difference in a community, it can make a difference on an individual level, which ultimately is what I wish to accomplish professionally. While I want to change the community as a whole; it can only be done through bits and pieces on a small scale. Through these small changes a bigger change will prevail inevitably. Working at a non-profit organization catered to the Latino community emphasized the significance of making small significant changes, which yields to an impact on the community. This agency was close to non-existent about 20 years ago but now is renowned in the state of Massachusetts for its services and impact on the Latino community. Over the last two years I have witnessed how one person can make a difference in an individual’s life, which then becomes evident through that individual’s involvement in their community. Over the last year I have been facilitating the women’s trauma group at Casa Esperanza. It overwhelms me with joy when these women are graduating from the group and speak about the impact the group has had in their lives. Moreover, it gives me personal satisfaction when they speak about the difference I have made in their lives as group leader. Six months later these same women are helping other women who are just starting their recovery process; proof that my efforts on a small level can in fact impact the community at large. For this reason, I will continue my education as a nurse practitioner to provide the complete services these individuals need. My mission in life now is not bound by my personal gains but by the overarching impact I know is possible.
Whitney Prosperi says
Vanessa,
We offer feedback for physician assistant personal statements, and I noticed in your essay you discussed wanting to pursue the NP path. I wish you good luck in the process.
Vanessa Arenas says
So Sorry! I uploaded the wrong version when I wanted to become an NP years ago. I will upload my new one for PA school.
Clair says
On January 12, 2010, an earthquake, the strongest in 200 years, struck my homeland in Haiti, leaving it in ruins with a healthcare system unable to provide care due to shortage in resources. I remember the lifeless bodies screened on the tv as we listened to the news. A few days later my cousin, a doctor in Haiti, relayed about the hundreds of people suffering in pain, untreated. Among those hundreds of people were family members, friends. Yet, amidst the helplessness, I found gratitude to the teams of medical providers volunteering their time to fly in to care for the injured. I gained a better appreciation for those in medicine, and I told myself one day, I would be like them: making a difference.
Immersing myself within my community paved my decision in choosing medicine. My first job experience was working for a non-profit organization, Operation Unite, OU, which molded me to give back as a youth in action. Developing programs for children, such as hip-hop dance and reading classes, and partnerships with Salvation Army are opportunities that I was fortunate to be a part of at OU. I looked forward to the smiling and grateful faces each week. Through OU, I was able to see the lack of access to healthcare for those living in a lower SES status of my town and the effect it had on their health. The detrimental outcomes I witnessed transpired my desire to work in the field of medicine. I want to provide better healthcare access in underserved areas and advocate for those who do not have a voice as the volunteers did in Haiti.
The personable attention of PAs drew me to the profession. But, through virtual shadowing, I recognized that being a PA, is so much more than medical concerns. The profession entails being a leader, having the commitment to educating, and the humility to be educated. During one experience, I shadowed a PA, Brianna, and I couldn’t help but agree with her. As a person of color in neurosurgery, Brianna discussed how there was a need for diversity in the field as patients of color tend to experience health inequities in the care they receive. I will strive to break down those color barriers and create a trusting relationship with all patients, as everyone deserves a right to healthcare.
My roles as a personal care/resident assistant and medication technician have allowed me to see that my interests in medicine and education intertwine. I heal while educating, as is the role of a PA. Being exposed to an array of patients, my knowledge of how to care for special patients continues to expand. As with the PA profession, I am continuously learning new information that aids in my growth of becoming a better provider. In one case, I worked with Joe, an agitated patient in the late stages of Alzheimer’s. In hopes of remembrance, I asked Joe about his life and where he lives. He started talking about his beloved truck and I smiled, encouraging him to continue. It’s something. Times like that, I am reminded that caring for someone who suffers from a disease requires patience. In another case, I made sure to teach myself a few words in Spanish, because my patient understood little to no English. I know firsthand the difficulties of someone not understanding your needs, because they do not effectively listen due to language barriers. Through the relationships I have built with my patients, I recognize my limitations and yearn to be more involved with their medical care. As a PA, I will not only be learning from my fellow coworkers, but also my patients as I am integrated in their care.
As a volunteer with Medical Volunteer International while studying abroad in Greece, I had the opportunity to learn and observe how healthcare professionals from different backgrounds practice their skills and treat an underprivileged population. At the Elna Maternity Clinic, a patient whimpered and cried for help as her wounded skin had third degree burns. As I listened to her journey as a refugee, I stopped writing the visit report. I couldn’t help but hold her hand lightly to give her the assurance that she was no longer alone. The days at the clinic, I saw the increasing despair of trauma, amongst other things, develop under grim conditions due to the refugee crisis. I encountered different cases each day such as viral illnesses, chest infections, and wounds. Whether it was writing a report, translating for refugees who spoke French, conversing with children to distract them from needles, or giving my opinion on a diagnosis, I was part of the team. There was collaboration and the focus of putting the patient first and foremost at the center of the team.
I told myself one day, I would make a difference in people’s lives and I am seeing it through. My patients have said “you’re too good to me and what would I do without you”. Hearing this, I know my purpose in providing effective care does not go in vain and it fuels my determination to be a PA. If not me, then who? If not now, then when? If not by faith, then how
Whitney Prosperi says
Clair,
I can sense your passion for serving people woven throughout your essay.
I would suggest adding in more details about what specifically draws you to the PA profession. (ability to switch specialties, working with a supervising physician and healthcare team, etc.)
Also, I would elaborate on some of the clinical skills you have gained in your roles.
I’m not saying you need this, but should you want more assistance, remember that we are taking submissions for our essay revision service. I wish you good luck in the process, Clair!
Caroline Areingdale says
A woman walked down the hallway of the clinic holding tightly to her husband and was not looking up for anything or anyone. It was my first week as a medical assistant, and I had never witnessed any patient this nervous to be at the doctor’s office. I entered the room with the supervising PA, John, and the woman still would not acknowledge us. She was reluctant to let me take her vitals and even more unsure about John being in the room. Her husband started explaining the years of trauma and bad experiences his wife had with medical professionals and men in general. They had tried several different clinics, growing more distrustful with each new place. The next few minutes, we focused on her current medications, what was working and what was not, and her previous medical diagnoses. I remember going out of the room, John taking a deep breath, and saying “This is going to be a tough case, but we can do it.” He was not afraid of taking on challenging patients and I knew he would strive to provide the best care possible.
The next weeks involved retrieving medical records and creating a plan of care that was appropriate for the patient. Working closely with John showed me the role PAs play in an outpatient primary care clinic and their scope of practice. He was able to consult with the supervising MD while also crafting his own treatment proposal for the patient. He encouraged me to research post-traumatic stress disorder, the signs and symptoms, and to create a novice approach of my own for the patient. We then came together, along with the MD, to formulate the final plan. The next week the patient came back, and John shared with the couple his proposal and the result that he was reaching towards. I recall him saying “We will work tirelessly to make this plan work, and if it does not, we will create something new and different.” It was apparent to me that he truly cared for the patient, wanted to see her better, and was willing to do everything possible to make that happen.
Up until this point, I knew I wanted to work in the medical field, but I was unsure of what role would be best suited and rewarding for me. Through working closely with a family practice physician and physician assistant, I can confidently say that the role of a PA is the one where I see myself fit most. The ability to see independently, diagnose, and treat patients coupled with consulting other medical professionals for a second opinion if needed is what attracted me most to this profession. I love having autonomy, but also knowing that you can go to your supervising physician with questions and concerns to give the patient the best care possible is invaluable. Additionally, shadowing a dermatology Physician Assistant allowed me to see how a PA can specialize and have a more limited scope of practice, therefore further developing knowledge in that specific field. These are some of the factors that led me to continue pursuing a career in medicine, and specifically pursue the role of a Physician Assistant.
Since, I have continued to work as a medical assistant practicing evidence-based medicine and learning about the process of discerning medical diagnoses. Honing my clinical judgement and ability to communicate with a diverse patient population effectively has been my primary goal while working at the clinic. I truly believe that caring for underserved communities has taught me how to sympathize with difficulties and ways of life that are extremely different from my own background. These patients have allowed me to grow in professionalism and cultural awareness . I have learned how to have compassion towards situations foreign to me. Combined with being a full-time student and leading in my sorority and on campus, I believe I have what it takes to thrive in PA school and the PA profession.
Over a year and a half later, I see the same patient that would not walk by herself down the hallway confidently walk into our clinic and greet all of my co-workers. Her husband is still with her, but she is the one doing the talking now. The trust she has with John and his continued effort to give her the best care has paid off. It has been gradual change, week by week and month by month, but the patient finally got to say, “I feel like myself again.” To firsthand watch this miraculous journey of healing and trust being rebuilt was incredible, and I want to spend the rest of my life creating moments of healing and hope.
Whitney Prosperi says
Caroline,
What an inspiring story! I also like how you tie back to this in your conclusion.
I think you are off to a good start. I would suggest condensing where you can throughout your essay so you can add a few more elements of your journey.
I would elaborate some on your shadowing experience. Describe an interaction from shadowing that reiterated your decision to pursue the PA path. (between PA/supervising physician or PA/patient)
I would also highlight some of your clinical skills you have gained throughout your work experience. If you can tie those to an example of caring for a patient, do that as well.
I wish you good luck in the process, Caroline!
Jazlyn says
Thank you for any feedback! I have been drafting my personal statement for a while and have a lot of ideas but struggle with the flow and narrative.
My first experience working in healthcare came in the midst of a global pandemic. In a time when the healthcare industry was full of unknowns, I was thrust into an environment of extreme patient protection which ultimately led to patients feeling loneliness and isolation. During this time, I learned how small acts of kindness and compassion impacted the patients beyond what I ever thought. I would watch the corners of a patient’s eyes wrinkle from a smile hidden behind their mask. As a physical therapy technician, I saw patients twice a day while they were inpatients in the rural hospital. I felt the gratitude patients exuded as they held my hand just a few moments longer than normal, thanking me for encouraging them throughout their therapy journey. Patients can feel the warmth of a good provider, such warmth and compassion were especially important during cold and uncertain times. I hope to bring that essence of warmth to all of my future patients. I did not always have clarity on which career path I should follow, but I knew I was driven towards helping people, building relationships, working hard and being a team member.
My preparation to become a physician assistant started when I jumped into a pool for the first time as a young six-year-old. Through being a competitive swimmer all my life, I learned reaching your goals requires hard work and complete dedication to the task at hand. In order to balance the grueling 5 am alarms, two a day practices and jam-packed school days, it took determination, discipline and dedication both in the pool, classroom and in other extra curriculars. I never settled for good enough. I learned how to hold myself to a high standard and being a student-athlete my whole life strengthened both my integrity and ambition to be great. I always found myself wondering what I could improve to get just hundredths of seconds faster whether that be in the water or a habit in my daily life.
I find great value in being a part of a team, which is why I find the physician assistant position to be so appealing. Throughout my experience shadowing many PA’s, I have witnessed how collaboration between healthcare providers can enhance a patient’s quality of care. Likewise, I witnessed as a PA you’re a team member contributing to the treatment of a patient. As I have been a team member my entire life, I recognize the value of being a team player and the rewards coming from your team’s success. I find leadership to be an essential aspect of a team. Within my experiences on many teams, I have always possessed leadership roles. My teammates voted me a captain of the Iowa State swimming and diving team this coming year, and previously I was captain of my high school team. I have been entrusted with many large responsibilities to effectively communicate with my coaches and teammates, as well as, lead those around me to be the best they can be. I have already learned from these experiences the ultimate goal of leadership is to make those around you better. Throughout my experiences shadowing and working in healthcare, PA’s are the most dedicated medical providers I have been surrounded by. PA’s passion for their patients and profession radiates from them and makes me even more confident that becoming a physician assistant is the right path for me.
During my time working as a PT tech, I have seen so many patients with a variety of struggles and ailments. A patient I worked with, whom I will call Judy, had progressing dementia and a fall brought her to the hospital for skilled care. Judy’s confusion often frightened her and her progress physically was limited by her mental state. Throughout my time working with Judy, her strength improved drastically and by the end, we had developed a close relationship. Her daughter pulled me aside as Judy was leaving and expressed extreme gratitude and appreciation towards me for being so patient, kind and encouraging with her mother. I walked out of the hospital feeling so reassured that I was heading in the right direction. I felt so rewarded seeing Judy’s progress and hearing from her daughter. Moments like this throughout my healthcare experiences, especially during such a difficult time, have propelled me forward and made me confident in my choice to become a PA. The PA profession has been able to subtly shift the medical culture towards humanism and that is what pulls me towards becoming a PA. I want to become a provider who is able to build relationships with my patients and helps them heal.
I take great pride in representing my school as a student-athlete and will take the same amount of pride as an excellent ambassador for your physician assistant program. My experience in patient care, coaching, athletics, leadership, and team-based environments have all compiled to shape me into the person I am today and my desire to become a PA. I hope to have the opportunity to serve patients as a trusted physician assistant.
Whitney Prosperi says
Jazlyn,
You are off to a good start! I would suggest spotlighting some more of the reasoning for your choice of the PA career specifically. What appeals to you about the role? (ability to switch specialties, increasing care to underserved patients, etc)
I would also discuss more detail about your path in healthcare to this point. Highlight your clinical skills or patient care experience you have gained.
Also, in your conclusion I would tie back to your introduction in some way.
I’m not saying you need this, but should you want more help, remember we are taking submissions for our essay revision service.
I wish you good luck, Jazlyn!
Victoria H says
I was ten years old when I lost my mother. For seven of my years with her, she had intermittent doctor’s appointments and chemotherapy treatments for Leukemia. But her weakened immune system left her vulnerable to whooping cough resulting in a month-long stay in a hospital over two hours away from home; meaning she spent her weeks alone. My father drove us to see her on weekends and once midweek when her lungs collapsed; they would never function on their own again. From this, I saw a need for more medical care providers, sparking in me a desire to serve and keep families together.
One night, as I was headed in from the outskirts of my hometown, I saw a truck in the ditch and went pale when I realized it belonged to my stepbrother. As I approached him, I could see blood running down his face. I asked what happened, if he felt okay and if he had called either of his parents. He was disoriented but explained he had been holding his phone when he crashed, and it was now broken. I immediately called both his parents, and stayed with him as first they, then finally, the police arrived. What I took away from this event—other than texting and driving is dangerous—is that I could remain calm and take control in a crisis. Ordinarily, my daily decisions endure lengthy deliberation, but in an urgent situation I could handle it, and quickly.
Over the course of my education, my end goal has always been to work in the medical field. In high school, I participated in a summer program where we explored a variety of medical specialties. I followed the pre-medical track at the University of Arkansas, but while I knew what field I wanted to enter, I was not convinced I had found the right role. I struggled to stay dedicated, and a year after graduation, I still felt directionless. I needed a new plan.
After researching different options, surgical technology jumped out as a position needed in our community, a foothold into the medical field, and a concrete, short-term goal. I completed a surgical technology program and shortly after starting my new career, I found myself preparing for my first true emergency: a patient was on their way from the ICU with a suspected perforated stomach. I could feel myself running on adrenaline as the surgery progressed. We successfully stopped the bleeding and repaired the damage. Days later I heard the patient had already left the ICU and would be discharged soon. Because this patient stayed in the hospital, I got a follow up on their outcome, one that made a huge difference in not only the patient’s life but in the life of their family and friends. It was exceedingly rewarding to know the result, something that is rare as a surgical technologist because I often only see a small slice of patient care. I realized that I still felt something was missing—I needed to be more involved in long-term patient outcomes.
It was not until starting work in surgery that I even became aware of the Physician Assistant role—since then I have worked closely with several PAs and have been impressed with how happy they all seemed to be with their chosen career. I spent time picking their brains and was excited to hear how much autonomy they have, while still getting to work as a team with their doctors. Although I love working in surgery, I liked that there was potential to transfer specialties in the future. My family is an immensely important part of my life. After my mother’s passing, I took on a caretaker dynamic with my two siblings, who are both on the autism spectrum. They manage a lot of independence in their adult lives, but there are still times where I am needed in their life. Working as a PA, while demanding, would give me the flexibility to be available for my siblings if needed while still fulfilling my passion to practice medicine.
Once again, I made a new plan. Knowing my undergraduate grades were not an accurate reflection of myself, I spent a year retaking prerequisites and improving my grades, while continuing to work as a surgical technologist. The following year I enrolled in a graduate program where I took medical-level courses such as Gross Anatomy, Physiology and Histology. I wanted to prove to myself that I had developed strong enough study skills to complete courses at that level. In 2020, I graduated from Mississippi College with a Master’s in Medical Sciences.
After years with an uncertain endpoint, I discovered I want a better work-life balance, autonomy as part of a team, flexibility in specialties, and ability to see patients directly and throughout their treatment journey. My experiences have led me to PA school as the unquestionable goal. These same experiences that carved my path also demonstrate my calm, level-headed critical decision-making skills and willingness to persistently work hard toward my goal—making me an ideal candidate for your PA school.
Whitney Prosperi says
Victoria,
I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. Your family has endured such hardship and yet, I can sense that your desire to help people runs deep.
I would suggest condensing where you can throughout your essay so you can leave some room to add a few more elements that will strengthen your essay.
I would add some more detail about what other factors have contributed to your decision to pursue PA specifically. (collaboration with a healthcare team and supervising physician, ability to expand care to the underserved, etc.)
Also, I would include some detail about your shadowing experiences. What about the interactions between supervising physician/PA or patient/PA solidified your decision? If you don’t have any shadowing of PAs, describe what you admired when working with PAs.
I would also expand on some of the clinical skills that will make you an effective PA. Elaborate on your desire to care for patients directly and spotlight what traits will make you a compassionate and effective provider.
In your conclusion, I would eliminate comments about work-life balance and also tie back to your introduction in some way.
I wish you good luck, Victoria!
Kristen Cheung says
As a six-year old, I was captivated when my grinning uncle demonstrated how to pour black coffee into his gastrostomy tube. Despite the dismal prognosis for terminal nasopharyngeal cancer, my uncle was a humorous and resilient man who had orchestrated our whole family’s immigration from Hong Kong to New York in the ‘80s. He was only 48 when he passed, introducing me to the realities of life-debilitating illness, suffering, and death. Cancer became a familiar word in my vocabulary. When I was twelve, my mother received a unilateral mastectomy to treat HER2-positive breast cancer. I accompanied her to numerous doctor’s consultations, hoping to provide emotional support and learn more about women’s health. The physician assistants (PAs) were patient and attentive providers who were always the first to examine my mother; they helped administer tests, explain mammogram results, and answer our questions thoroughly. I left each visit with increasing certainty that I would study human biology, and pursue a career as a PA.
In order to obtain tangible healthcare experience, I began volunteering at Elmhurst Hospital’s pharmacy, where my mother was a seasoned technician. Dispensing medications was a seemingly superficial task; but, to my surprise, we formed long-term friendships with countless patients. They would routinely bring unsolicited pastries, lend advice on my college career, or even offer me space in their family homes when I studied in Latin America. Sharing multicultural foods and intimate conversations facilitated greater connection and trust for elderly and minority patients who are often less heard and represented in the medical system. I later transferred to the medical-surgical unit to advocate for patients at their bedsides; I acted as the intermediary between them and their immediate needs, including feeding during mealtime or transmitting requests to their providers. I was able to observe firsthand how closely PAs interacted with their patients and supervising physicians, operating both independently and cooperatively to ensure the utmost care and treatment. This level of autonomy, collaboration, and patient involvement aligns with my personality traits and values in a prospective work environment.
Beyond my exposure to inpatient care facilities, I also pursued more clinical training and responsibility. I completed a phlebotomy and electrocardiogram course, and was hired as a front desk associate and medical assistant at Inspira Dermatology. Within days, I was triaging, taking chief complaints and medical histories, preparing biopsy instruments, and drafting electronic medical charts. Most patients spoke solely in Mandarin, Cantonese, or even Spanish, challenging my conversational abilities in all three languages. Once I adjusted, I regularly assisted my physician during excisional surgeries, cosmetic regimens, and proposed plausible diagnoses before she entered the examination room. I found endless gratification in fine-tuning typical treatment plans or medical procedures to account for each patient’s nuances and maximal comfort. As the doctor’s right hand and witness, I documented and confirmed the validity of miscellaneous details, and relayed insurance and scheduling-related issues between her and the receptionists. The clinic expanded my capabilities to problem solve and multitask efficiently, adapt to new technology, and communicate in a team-oriented setting; these are practical skills that will strengthen my clinical foundation as a PA candidate.
At Queens College, I undertook unique advocacy positions for several marginalized groups. I became a registered behavior technician, reinforcing positive behaviors in autistic children from low-income households. Under CUNY Service Corps, I was selected as a disaster response volunteer to rebuild roofs in rural Puerto Rico. Due to the severe shortage of primary care providers, I met grieving homeowners whose friends and family had died from otherwise treatable illnesses, such as pneumonia or sepsis. These events showed me a fraction of the systematic medical inequities toward minorities and special needs individuals. Some of this can be prevented by a larger allocation of general practitioners such as PAs, who have the flexibility to practice across multiple specialties and attend to the country’s underprivileged regions. I intend to serve disadvantaged neighborhoods in New York, conduct mission trips back to Puerto Rico, and explore varying fields, such as gynecology and oncology.
In 2020, Elmhurst Hospital was described as the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic. I watched my mother and the rest of the healthcare team sacrifice their personal health to maintain the wellbeing of the immigrant and underserved populations in Queens. Her example and that of all essential workers confirmed my desire to become a PA. I look forward to the time when I will take part in this workforce and make significant contributions to my local and global communities.
Whitney Prosperi says
Kristen,
You are a beautiful story teller. I can sense your passion for medicine woven throughout your essay.
I would suggest adding a patient care story that shows you in action providing clinical care of some kind while connecting with a patient in a personal way. You want to show some of the qualities you possess that will make you an effective PA.
Also, if you have any shadowing experience, I would describe that. What about the interactions you witnessed confirmed your decision to pursue the PA path specifically? If you don’t have any shadowing experience, briefly describe what you witnessed in working with a PA.
I wish you good luck in the process, Kristen!
Olivia says
“You can stand closer,” the pathologist said, gesturing with his head to the deceased body lying on the table in front of me, while he gripped the scalpel tightly and made a “Y” incision on the torso. As I stepped forward to the table, the anatomy of the human body came into view, and the amazement of its complexity astounded me. It was as if the body had come back to life to tell the story of its last minutes. It was from that moment on that I was captivated. The spark holding the dreams of a future in medicine ignited.
My studies and experiences at Western Carolina University kindled the spark ignited that day. However, my first job after college as a medical assistant (MA) initiated my journey towards becoming a physician assistant (PA). As a cardiology MA, I assist providers in exam rooms, gather vitals, transcribe a detailed medical history of the patient, and perform EKGs. In addition, I work closely with patients to prepare them for echocardiograms and ensure they understand the treatment plan and instructions given. As an MA, I have grown to love medicine, provider teams, and patient interactions.
My interaction with a 68-year-old female patient with a diagnosis of uncontrolled diabetes and underlying heart disease further led me to the decision to become a PA. She had not even made it through the clinic door when she collapsed backward, hitting her head on the wall. The PA rushed to her side while I began checking her vitals. As a team, the PA, nurse, and I assisted the patient in providing the best treatment until paramedics arrived. Witnessing the PA’s widespread knowledge of treatments and observing his methods of effectively and kindly communicating with this patient and all of his patients inspired me to become more educated about what it means to be a PA, and it certainly played an essential role in my decision to pursue this career.
As a MA, I have the opportunity to work closely with different providers. I have shadowed PAs providing care and have witnessed the value they bring to the profession. I have had the chance to see the strong patient-provider relationships that PAs create, and the collaboration with other providers to provide the finest care possible. While shadowing Lorry, general cardiology PA, she informed me about PAs’ career mobility due to being trained in every realm of healthcare. I was intrigued to find out that one could switch fields if they chose, and I admired the idea of having a depth of knowledge and experience in multiple areas over a long career in medicine.
Prior to the spread of the Coronavirus, I spent many weekends volunteering in my community at the Haywood Street Congregation, an urban ministry that serves low-income and homeless individuals, and along the roadside of the Blue Ridge Parkway, picking up trash and debris. At the Haywood Street Congregation, I assisted at the Welcome Table by setting tables, preparing food, and conversing with people from all walks of life. Interacting with the Haywood Street community opened my eyes to the growing poverty in my community and the kindness and compassion shown by offering a meal and a listening ear. I have grown to see individuals for who they are on the inside, and not what stage of life they are in or where they come from or live.
Reflecting on my experiences throughout life, it is clear how these moments were preparing me for the journey of becoming a PA. Every day offers new challenges but also new opportunities to learn from those around me. I know that it may be difficult to change the world on a global scale, but I hope to change the lives of those I serve in my role as a PA by showing them compassion and empathy with each patient interaction.
Whitney Prosperi says
Olivia,
Your introduction does a good job of grabbing the reader’s attention and showing your growing interest in medicine.
I would suggest adding some details about your shadowing experience if you have any. What did you observe between patient/PA or supervising physician/PA that further informed your decision?
For your patient care story, you may want to embellish some on how you helped this patient. Did you help steady her? Offer words of support? You want to show what you have to offer as a future PA by highlighting some of your qualities that will make you an effective provider.
I’m not saying you need this, but should you want more help we are taking submissions for our essay revision service.
Good luck to you, Olivia!
Caitlin K says
There was the familiar sound of rhythmic beeping from the patient monitors in the background, as we readied the operating room for surgery. It was nearing the end of our week at Hermano Pedro Hospital in Antigua, Guatemala. The last patient of the day walked in the operating room (OR), she was gripping the side of her abdomen and looked to be in pain. Before the patient proceeded to the operating room bed, she faced the surgeon, physician assistant, anesthesiologist, nurse anesthetist and I, with a weary smile, put her hands together and bowed her head in our direction. No words were exchanged. After having received anesthesia, she slowly closed her eyes. Watching the patient drift off to sleep, I forced back the tears forming in my eyes. This made me think back. Earlier that week, the medical providers from our mission team hosted clinic. I was surprised to see a long line of people in the waiting area so early in the morning. I later learned they arrived this early in hopes to be chosen to receive medical care. The others would be turned away when the surgery schedule for the week was full. It may be weeks or months before the next medical team arrived to provide them with healthcare. Never before had a simple gesture impacted me like this one did that day in the OR in Guatemala. My heart was heavy thinking of the trials this patient had gone through to be given this level of care that she was in need of. I prayed that after today, she would awake from surgery and be relieved of her pain. This memory has stayed with me and allowed me to realize that every patient, no matter where they are from, has a story and each one deserves high quality, compassionate care. Moments like these are why I have a profound ambition to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant (PA).
Through my experience in the operating room, I first learned of the role of a Physician Assistant. As a surgical technologist, we are members of the operating room team that work alongside a PA. We get exposed to a variety of surgical subspecialties in surgery. This allows me to be an active member of a team of medical professionals engaging and learning new things about patients and surgical techniques in the operating room. During surgery, a serious situation may arise. My job is to remain calm and anticipate the surgeon’s needs during all steps of the procedure in order for them to perform their best care for the patient. The ability to accept critical feedback from the surgeon is important for quality for me to have in order to effectively assist with the procedure. These experiences in the OR have made me adaptable to be an effective team member for the patient to receive the best care possible. This ability to actively work as a team in varying situations and learn from feedback will serve me well throughout PA school.
While working as a surgical technologist, I have had the opportunity to train and mentor students and new employees learning my role. An opportunity came for me to be a senior preceptor on the spine subspecialty. Having assisted with many of these cases, I felt that I could teach others the process for these complex surgical procedures. New students and employees have varying personalities and learning abilities, this has allowed me to learn different styles of teaching and give feedback in order for them to learn and perform at their best. With the correct amount of guidance and direction, they have began to feel like they are an active component of the OR team. My experience teaching others how to be a crucial member of the OR team has allowed me to feel I am guiding others to reach their full potential in their role in the OR.
I am grateful for all of my experiences and learning opportunities from the various medical professionals whom I work alongside and the patients I have helped as I strive to become a PA. Volunteering in mission trips has shown me that to have a strong desire to assist patients in underserved communities. As a PA, I would be capable of providing medical treatment that could be cost-effective and accessible to patients. My ambition to provide quality, compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals can be accomplished through the PA profession. I believe all my past experiences have helped me prepare for the rigors of PA school. I look forward to the future opportunity to be able to impact patients’ lives as much as many of them have impacted my decision to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant.
Whitney Prosperi says
Caitlin,
You do a good job of showing your contribution and experience as a surgical technologist.
I would suggest adding a paragraph about your shadowing experience. What interactions (between PA/supervising physician or PA/patient) confirmed your desire to pursue this path? If you haven’t had shadowing of PAs, describe what you have learned from working with PAs.
Also, I would add more detail about why the PA role appeals to you? Is it the ability to switch specialties? more time/contact with patients? ability to collaborate with a healthcare team and supervising physician?
I’m not saying you need this, but should you want more help, remember that we are taking submissions for our essay revision service. I wish you good luck in the process, Caitlin.
Sawyer Swanson says
He was a shy freshman athlete, sitting in the office of the Athletic Training room, and was just told one of the worst things a young athlete can hear. He has a completely torn ACL. As his Athletic Trainer (ATC), I was the one that had to tell him the terrible news. He just nodded and said “okay”. I think I took the news harder than he did. I explained the next steps of prehab, surgery, and recovery time, and he continued to nod with no emotion. Before we knew it, we were at the pre-op appointment meeting with the Physician Assistant (PA). He explained what they would be doing in the surgery, prescribed my athlete medication, and discussed the post-surgery protocol. The knowledge and empathy he gave to my athlete ensured me that he was in good hands.
The PA profession wasn’t always what I wanted to pursue. I knew I wanted to be in the healthcare field after being raised in my parent’s fitness gyms and participating in every sport possible when I was young. When I was a freshman in high school, I tore my ACL. I was introduced and later heavily impacted by our school’s ATC. This terrible tragedy led me to pursue athletic training. As I started my career as an ATC, treating each athlete as an individual and gaining their trust was a must. The most memorable and eye opening experience of that came with my freshman athlete. Towards the end of prehab, I made him laugh. It was the most simple thing but for the first time, I felt a connection and knew he trusted me. But I knew I could only do so much for him.
My first year as an ATC, I realized I needed and wanted to be able to do more for my athletes. My roommate at the time was applying for PA school. The more I researched the profession, the more excited I got that I had found the missing pieces of my career. The most attractive a part is the autonomy of a PA while still working as a team with a physician. So, I signed up to take the remaining prerequisites that summer and set up times to observe a PA. Unfortunately, the pandemic didn’t allow me to shadow. I applied, was waitlisted, but unfortunately never accepted. But that did not stop me from pursuing my dream career. I gained more patient care experience as an ATC and was able to observe an orthopedic PA during clinic and surgery. This only strengthened my desire to become a PA.
As I shadowed the PA, I saw the dynamic between him and the collaborating physician. They bounced ideas off each other and respected the other’s thoughts. It was a team. Being a team player is something I learned while playing sports and improved through my undergrad program and while working as an ATC. Having the ability to ask or help a co-worker find the best solution for a patient is a must in any healthcare setting. There will always be a new pathology that you haven’t seen or haven’t had the same success as others might. Another essential skill is communicating with all necessary personnel. I have the experience of speaking with our team physicians about an injury while keeping my supervisor updated on the status. Everything I do as a PA, must be in the best interest of the patient.
I would like to take a brief moment to explain a few lower grades I had received. During my sophomore year, I took two more difficult classes at the same time. I was not focused enough during that semester and found out the hard way that I need to put in the time and work if I am to get where I want to be. Since then, I have prioritized and dedicated time to be on the Dean’s and President’s list the remaining years of my undergrad. That is how I truly am a student.
Autonomy, flexibility, and teamwork are incredible aspects of being a PA. But my desire to pursue this profession goes beyond that. It is a chance to help my patients in a way that I was not able to do before. A chance to truly make a difference in someone’s life, all while having the help of an incredible team to make that a reality. Using my skills and compassion I have gained from my time as an ATC has prepared me to be a successful PA student in which to become a dedicated PA.
Whitney Prosperi says
Sawyer,
You are off to a good start. I would suggest providing more detail about your work experience and clinical skills gained throughout the process.
You also want to reiterate your desire to diagnose, treat, and educate patients while showing some of the traits you have that will make you an effective PA. You want to show how you will care for patients with clinical expertise and a personal touch.
You may want to tie your conclusion back to your introduction in some way as well.
I wish you good luck in the process, Sawyer.
Katie says
Following your passions and deciding on a career path that you want to pursue can be frightening, but I am confident in my decision to become a physician assistant. I know that I want to be a PA because I know that I enjoy practicing medicine, understand the job, and I want my passion for science and medicine to benefit others.
My desire to become a PA has been confirmed by my excitement in my current position as a medical assistant. I work at an orthopedic practice and I thoroughly enjoy what I get to do every day. I gain a lot of insight and knowledge from looking at x-rays and MRIs and trying to see what the providers see on them. I get excited when working with a post-op patient and getting to take out their staples and sutures. I enjoy hearing about complicated surgical cases from my physicians (like when Dr. Millard did an ulnar shortening osteotomy). I also really enjoy getting to know my patients and talking to them. I like hearing about what my patients do for a living. Often their job relates to their injury or problem in one way or another. For example, I had a patient that was injured in a school bus accident where she was the driver. I have also had a patient who complained of back pain when he would sit for long periods, which sounded like it could easily be avoided until he explained that he was a therapist and therefore sits for most of his day. I have around fifty patients a day, 250 patients a week, and these stories still stick in my mind. That is how I know that what I do is important to me. I am excited about medicine and would like to continue to intertwine myself into the field. Although I haven’t been a medical assistant for very long, I have learned many new skills very quickly and this experience has left me wanting to become a physician assistant with a larger role in patient care.
Many of the physicians at my office have physician assistants and so I get to observe what they do on a day-to-day basis. Many of them get to see patients in place of the physician. They give injections and discuss post-operation instructions. On slow days, I will often follow my PAs into patient rooms with their permission, so that I can see what they examine, test for, and discuss with the patient. Because of the understanding I have of the role of a physician assistant, I am more confident in my desire to become one.
Lastly, I know that I want to become a physician assistant because I care about the impact that I leave on the world. I have a passion for science and medicine and I feel comfort in knowing that my passion can also be used to help others in such an important way. I fell in love with science in high school and began taking college-level biology courses to challenge myself. This is why I knew I could go to college and have success in a difficult science major. My major in biochemistry and molecular biology challenged me, but it also solidified my love for science. What many people did not know for thousands of years can now be known with some certainty because of science. The human body, for example, is so incredibly complex, but because of scientific research I can understand how the body functions. The knowledge that I have in the different sciences can help me to educate my patients and provide better care. This is how my passion can collide with my desire to leave an impact on the world.
There are many reasons why I am choosing the career path to become a physician assistant. I know that I like being in medicine. I enjoy helping patients and performing medical procedures. I know what the job entails and I am confident in my ability to succeed. I have a passion for science, and I have the capability to understand the complexities of medicine. I want to be able to use my gift of knowledge and apply it to make a difference and this career is just one more way for me to do my part.
Whitney Prosperi says
Katie,
You are off to a good start. I would suggest including a patient care story in your introduction. You may want to show yourself in action providing some kind of personalized care while also connecting on a personal level. You want to show what you have to offer as a future PA.
Also, I suggest including a paragraph that details your shadowing experience. You may want to describe an interaction between PA/patient or PA/supervising physician that confirmed your decision.
I would also include some of the aspects of the profession that appeal to you. (ability to switch specialties, more time/contact with patients?)
I would also include some of the details about your work history that spotlight some of the clinical skills or medical knowledge you have gained.
For your conclusion, you could also tie back to that patient care story in your introduction.
I wish you good luck, Katie!
Krista C says
Growing up, my cousins and I would spend the majority of our days with our grandpa. He always told stories of times when I would be the first to volunteer to help him with chores around the house. Once, he placed a vacuum downstairs without saying a word but I knew what he was intending to do — he put it there so one of us would take it upon ourselves to clean up without having to be told to. Of course, I did it and later was recognized by him for doing so. I always felt like it was a priority to help him out regardless of what the situation was, and I always have felt that way with all people that I am surrounded by. Fast forward a few years, and I would still feel the same want to help him as we said our good-byes to him through a hospital window. As he struggled with the damage that COVID-19 did to his body, I have never wanted to help someone more than I did in that moment. Not being able to do anything for him from outside gave me even more of a push to go into medicine and become a physician’s assistant. Although I could not help him, I will be able to help other individuals and their families to the best of my ability while they are under my care.
My interest in the medical field sparked at a very young age. This is attributed to my own experiences and the fact that I give a helping hand anytime I have the opportunity to do so. Even in my younger years, I knew that my end goal would be to have a profession in healthcare and as the years went on, I became more interested. I have always been fascinated by the human body and the many ways it functions to keep us alive.The desire to have an occupation in this area has not ceased over the years. As a result, I completed my undergraduate studies and earned a degree of science in biology. My first hand experience in healthcare as a volunteer and an employee has set me up for success not only in my current position but also for my future career. I am aware that there are many moving parts to patient care and I believe that my qualities as a person, student and employee will make me a great asset to a physician’s assistant program so that I can fulfill the role of a PA prosperously.
Prioritization, responsibility, dedication and integrity are all qualities that I possess and have learned through multiple experiences of my life that will help me in my position as a physician’s assistant. Growing up as a student athlete who was also involved in other extracurricular activities taught me how to balance all parts of my busy life, and that is something I applied through my undergraduate studies and still do now in my job. I know first hand how busy providers get with all their duties, and I believe that seeing it upfront has shown me great examples of how to work even more successfully.
Hands-on experience in both a rural community and city has played a big role in showing me the ropes of healthcare. Once, there was a patient who came to the office to get help to quit drinking. I got him approved for a medication that would help, and he was very thankful. Each time I see him, he always tells me how grateful he is for me putting in the time and work to help him. I also was very proud though I didn’t do it for the recognition, but just because I wanted to help.
In a different instance, there was a patient having a stress test performed. She was very nervous, and she could not calm down enough to get the stress test done. I went with the cardiology physician’s assistant to visit the patient. While the PA and the tech discussed the patient’s case, I asked her some questions that were not related to the procedure so I could get her mind off of it to help calm her. After sitting and chatting for a few minutes, she mentioned that she felt better and she was glad I gave her some company. She was then able to proceed with the test. At her next cardiology visit, she mentioned how I made the experience better for her.
These are just a couple experiences I have had with patients but I can say that each one taught me something. I learned that helping someone in even the smallest way can change their day and also give them a better experience. People don’t always enjoy their medical encounters because usually they don’t feel well or are going through a hard time we may not even know about, so doing something to help someone could make a hard day better. As a result of experiences like these, I am always reminded that no matter what, it is never a bad thing to lend a helping hand. I have learned to slow down and even if I am busy or have a lot on my plate, I never regret stopping for a brief moment to be the kind of person anyone can depend on.I have also learned that clinicians who do the same thing during their encounters with patients are the ones that are the most successful in their job position. Patient care, in any form, is the number one priority and I have already learned this in my current position and hope to expand it while taking on a physician’s assistant role.
Whitney Prosperi says
Krista,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your grandpa and trust your legacy of care will honor his legacy.
I would suggest adding more detail about what specifically appeals to you about the PA profession and why you are suited for it. (more time for patients/personal connections, ability to switch specialties, working with a supervising physician and team of providers)
Also, add some more details about your path in healthcare. Include relevant experience, clinical skills you have gained, and medical knowledge.
I would also add a paragraph that details your shadowing experience. What did you observe that confirmed your decision? Describe an interaction between PA/supervising physician or PA/patient.
Lastly, in your conclusion I would tie back to your introduction in some way.
I’m not saying you need this, but should you want more help we are taking essay submissions for our revision service.
Good luck Krista!