1) Why did you choose to be a PA?
I chose to become a PA because I really wanted to have a career in the medical field, but I also wanted other things in life like raising a family. The shorter duration of PA school and the fact that we don't have to do residency allows for both of those things. Furthermore, I really wanted to have a position that would allow me to spend a lot of time with patients. I feel that becoming a PA will satisfy all of my goals and I've been very happy with my decision.
2) What did you do to prepare to apply?
I focused on making myself into a well-faceted applicant. I was involved in multiple organizations at my school, participated in community service projects, held a job, and shadowed at the ED. PA programs want to see that you can balance more than just academics because once you are in school, they will encourage you to join professional organizations and do community service projects.
3) How many schools did you apply to and interview with? What were the interviews like? How did you choose UNTHSC?
I applied to 4 schools and interviewed at 3. My interviews were nerve wracking of course, but my suggestion is to make sure you're prepared. You'll be nervous no matter what, but as long as that's not your very first time in an interview, you'll do just fine. I realized at my interview day that I really wanted to go to UNTHSC because unlike the students at other some of the other schools, the UNTHSC students looked happy and invigorated. It scared me that at some of the schools that I visited, the students looked like zombies but at UNTHSC, it was a completely different feel.
4) What has surprised you about UNT's PA program so far?
I was surprised at how involved their faculty is in ensuring the success of their students. Each student is assigned a mentor (faculty member) for the duration of the program, and the goal of the mentor is to serve as a support system with any academic or personal issues that the student is willing to talk about. It's a great resource, and a good way to get to know your professors too.
5) Have you found any successful strategies for surviving the didactic portion of your program?
Study groups have worked out really well for me. We spend so much time in the classroom listening to lectures so the last thing that I wanted to do was sit and study by myself. It nice to learn interactively, plus explaining concepts between group members really helped solidify everything for me.
6) What's the coolest things you've done so far?
The coolest thing so far was learning from cadavers in the anatomy lab. It was a great opportunity to be able to see the bodies first hand and learn from a team that included anatomy professors, forensics personnel, anthropologists, and health care providers. Also it's pretty neat how comfortable you get with dead bodies.
7) Any advice for future applicants other than good grades and shadowing?
I highly suggest that pre-PA students become involved with TAPA, the Texas Academy of Physician Assistants. The benefit is great for students because it allows you to stay informed about the profession (which is more important now more than ever because of health care reform) and along with your membership, you get a seriously reduced registration price for the TAPA Conferences. Going to at least one TAPA Conference would be a really good idea because there are student tracks that are focused on enriching lives of students before entering PA school, during school, and in the transition from school to practice. Additionally, there are a ton of faculty members from all the schools there. In fact, I was asked during one of my interviews if I ever attended one of the conferences.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Monday, August 27, 2012
First Week of School - PCOM
Here's some thoughts from a new PA-S at Pennsylvania College of Osteopathic Medicine.
1) How did you prepare for the start of PA school?
Since I only had a little under a month before graduating and going to PCOM, all I did was try to relax as much as possible. I would say the most important thing is figuring out where you're going to live, getting furniture and household stuff, and learning the area (grocery stores, restaurants, etc). Once school starts you won't have much time to do these things. Regarding "studying" or something for school, I wouldn't recommend it. Take the time instead to relax so you are fresh for class once the first semester starts. Spend time with family who you won't have time to see once school starts.
2) What has been the most interesting thing you have learned so far? What has been the hardest?
We just started our 2nd semester and learning to take histories is kind of cool (as cool as school can get I guess). The summer semester was A&P, which was interesting, but also stressful. Learning to take a history is more fun because you get to work with people and it's also things you do as a clinician. I am looking forward to learning the physical here starting next week (reflexes, ophthalmoscope, heart sounds, etc). We haven't got that deep into the fall semester so not sure which class is the hardest, so far it seems bearable. The summer was very challenging, especially anatomy, because there is so much to learn and not enough time to learn it.
3) What study strategy has worked? What hasn't?
The biggest thing is staying on top of things. I have a small study group, me plus two people, and going over things and quizzing each other has been a huge help. I am a big fan of reading the book but you can only do that so much in PA school. I try to at least read the tougher topics once. For my H&P class right now, so far I am able to read every page of the book. For anatomy I only opened that thing once. DRAWING THINGS OUT - huge help, especially for blood vessels! Definitely do that once you get to anatomy, draw every blood vessel out. And mnemonics, huge help. Making charts, e.g. "things going through greater sciatic notch" "through lesser... etc etc". I have been listening to recorded lectures (the school records and posts them for us) for my harder classes which I think has been helping. I listen on 1.5x speed. Drawing things and writing things down definitely. It is not enough just to read slides and think you have it. Also learn what is a good investment of time (read for some classes, study groups with certain people, drawing) and what is too time consuming (some people are hard to study with, some classes reading is not a good idea, etc).
4) What do you like about PA school vs. undergrad studies?
Home stretch!!! Not having to work is nice. The debt is heftier. Learning things that have a use is always nice. But it is much more stressful in the sense of less time to learn more. But it is easier in the sense that you don't have to balance a full time job on top of school. But don't worry you will be there soon enough man!!!
1) How did you prepare for the start of PA school?
Since I only had a little under a month before graduating and going to PCOM, all I did was try to relax as much as possible. I would say the most important thing is figuring out where you're going to live, getting furniture and household stuff, and learning the area (grocery stores, restaurants, etc). Once school starts you won't have much time to do these things. Regarding "studying" or something for school, I wouldn't recommend it. Take the time instead to relax so you are fresh for class once the first semester starts. Spend time with family who you won't have time to see once school starts.
2) What has been the most interesting thing you have learned so far? What has been the hardest?
We just started our 2nd semester and learning to take histories is kind of cool (as cool as school can get I guess). The summer semester was A&P, which was interesting, but also stressful. Learning to take a history is more fun because you get to work with people and it's also things you do as a clinician. I am looking forward to learning the physical here starting next week (reflexes, ophthalmoscope, heart sounds, etc). We haven't got that deep into the fall semester so not sure which class is the hardest, so far it seems bearable. The summer was very challenging, especially anatomy, because there is so much to learn and not enough time to learn it.
3) What study strategy has worked? What hasn't?
The biggest thing is staying on top of things. I have a small study group, me plus two people, and going over things and quizzing each other has been a huge help. I am a big fan of reading the book but you can only do that so much in PA school. I try to at least read the tougher topics once. For my H&P class right now, so far I am able to read every page of the book. For anatomy I only opened that thing once. DRAWING THINGS OUT - huge help, especially for blood vessels! Definitely do that once you get to anatomy, draw every blood vessel out. And mnemonics, huge help. Making charts, e.g. "things going through greater sciatic notch" "through lesser... etc etc". I have been listening to recorded lectures (the school records and posts them for us) for my harder classes which I think has been helping. I listen on 1.5x speed. Drawing things and writing things down definitely. It is not enough just to read slides and think you have it. Also learn what is a good investment of time (read for some classes, study groups with certain people, drawing) and what is too time consuming (some people are hard to study with, some classes reading is not a good idea, etc).
4) What do you like about PA school vs. undergrad studies?
Home stretch!!! Not having to work is nice. The debt is heftier. Learning things that have a use is always nice. But it is much more stressful in the sense of less time to learn more. But it is easier in the sense that you don't have to balance a full time job on top of school. But don't worry you will be there soon enough man!!!
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Inerview with Todd Pickard, PA-C
Todd is a PA-C I met at the TAPA conference last February. He is not only very active in TAPA, but has also expanded PA representation in management at a major medical center.
1) Why did you choose to be a PA?
I knew that I wanted to do something in medicine but was not sure what that was. I had a PA that worked with my family physician growing up and I remembered that I really liked her and what she got to do for a living. After college I worked as an EMT for a while and then medical sales. I even did a stint in nursing school before I realized that being a PA was what I really wanted.
2) What program did you graduate from? How did you choose it?
I went to the Emory University PA Program. Out of all the schools that I interviewed, It had the best fit with my personality. They stressed team-work not competition. That was really appealing to me.
3) What is your area of practice? What does a normal day look like to you?
I work at MD Anderson Cancer Center. I have been a PA for over 15 years and have worked in Urology, Medical Oncology and Cancer Prevention. I now spend the majority of my time in Administration and Management.
4) You've created a new leadership position for PAs a your hospital. Tell us about that role and how you created it.I am the Director of PA Programs.
As the number of PAs grew at MD Anderson, it was clear that there needed to be some structure and leadership for the PA group. Also there was a great deal of misunderstanding about our scope of practice, role, training, capabilities and the laws that govern our practice. PAs have not traditionally been engaged at high-levels in administrative and management. I thought it was time to change that. I got involved in committees and policy work for my institution. I then wrote a business plan and presented that to the physician leadership. They agreed and now we have a robust PA organization at MD Anderson.
5) Tell us about your work with TAPA. What ways have you been involved?
I have mainly been involved in legislative affairs and political action with TAPA. I am currently the chair of the Legislative Affairs Committee and just recently was elected to Director-at-large. I really enjoy the political process and advocating for PAs. I have a strong commitment to seeing our profession recognized for the contributions and good work that we do. I also have a passion for our voice to be heard at the highest levels in government.
6) What professional evolution do you hope to see for PAs?
I would expect that PAs continue to be vital members of the health care team and to take on greater roles in administration, management, health care policy, and leadership.
7) Any advice for future applicants beside good grades and shadowing?
Volunteer at a hospital. Be an orderly or unit clerk or nursing assistant. Hands-on patient care is much more meaningful than shadowing. Reply Forward
1) Why did you choose to be a PA?
I knew that I wanted to do something in medicine but was not sure what that was. I had a PA that worked with my family physician growing up and I remembered that I really liked her and what she got to do for a living. After college I worked as an EMT for a while and then medical sales. I even did a stint in nursing school before I realized that being a PA was what I really wanted.
2) What program did you graduate from? How did you choose it?
I went to the Emory University PA Program. Out of all the schools that I interviewed, It had the best fit with my personality. They stressed team-work not competition. That was really appealing to me.
3) What is your area of practice? What does a normal day look like to you?
I work at MD Anderson Cancer Center. I have been a PA for over 15 years and have worked in Urology, Medical Oncology and Cancer Prevention. I now spend the majority of my time in Administration and Management.
4) You've created a new leadership position for PAs a your hospital. Tell us about that role and how you created it.I am the Director of PA Programs.
As the number of PAs grew at MD Anderson, it was clear that there needed to be some structure and leadership for the PA group. Also there was a great deal of misunderstanding about our scope of practice, role, training, capabilities and the laws that govern our practice. PAs have not traditionally been engaged at high-levels in administrative and management. I thought it was time to change that. I got involved in committees and policy work for my institution. I then wrote a business plan and presented that to the physician leadership. They agreed and now we have a robust PA organization at MD Anderson.
5) Tell us about your work with TAPA. What ways have you been involved?
I have mainly been involved in legislative affairs and political action with TAPA. I am currently the chair of the Legislative Affairs Committee and just recently was elected to Director-at-large. I really enjoy the political process and advocating for PAs. I have a strong commitment to seeing our profession recognized for the contributions and good work that we do. I also have a passion for our voice to be heard at the highest levels in government.
6) What professional evolution do you hope to see for PAs?
I would expect that PAs continue to be vital members of the health care team and to take on greater roles in administration, management, health care policy, and leadership.
7) Any advice for future applicants beside good grades and shadowing?
Volunteer at a hospital. Be an orderly or unit clerk or nursing assistant. Hands-on patient care is much more meaningful than shadowing. Reply Forward
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Interview with a PA-S from Texas Tech
1) Why did you choose to be a PA?
I chose to be a PA because of my passion of the human body and the driving motivation to make a difference in people's lives. I also love to learn and thrive in a challenging environment.
2) What did you do to prepare to apply?
I focused on making good grades in all of my prerequisite courses. I got involved with leadership positions on my campus. I shadowed as much as I could. I started the application process early and submitted my application before September. I focused on writing an excellent essay.
3) How many schools did you apply to and interview with? What were the interviews like? How did you choose Texas Tech?
I applied to 5 schools in Texas: TTUHSC, UTSA, UTMB, UTSW, UNTHSC. I only had one interview with Texas Tech but committed before I had the opportunity to get offers from any other school. I chose Texas Tech mainly because it chose me. I loved the atmosphere and the solitary attention the PA students received because we are the only students who use our building. The faculty were very relaxed and very encouraging. They didn't try to intimidate you during interview.
4) What has surprised you about Texas Tech's PA program so far?
My biggest surprise is how well our class gets along and helps each other. We help each other study. We're always giving each other study tools, studying in groups, and tutoring each other. We've become a family and have been there for each other outside of school as well.
5) Have you found any successful strategies for surviving the didactic portion of your program?
Time Management! Don't wait until the last minute to try and study. There's always more material than you realized that you needed to get through. You can't study too much either. If you think you know the material extensively there's always something in there that you missed. Study study study up until the very last minute before you take your test. But on the flip side, take some R&R time. Time management is key. So give yourself plenty of time to study but schedule in some down time or you will burn yourself out and not want to stay motivated and slack off.
6) What's the coolest things you've done so far?
Suture lab, Emergency Medicine ACLS, BLS, PALS certification courses, Sim lab, IV lab, and travelling and being apart of TAPA conferences and Board of Directors Meetings.
7) Any advice for future applicants other than good grades and shadowing?
Brag confidently but also humbly in your essay about the reasons why you will make an excellent PA. Say things other than I want to help people. Mention your medical/clinical experience but don't focus on listing your resume. Talk about how they have changed and shaped your mind and attitude towards being a PA. Be well rounded. Do something other than just shadow. It could be something completely unrelated to medicine. Be yourself and confident in your interviews. Ask as many questions as you can. Be enthusiastic.
Monday, August 13, 2012
First Week of PA School UNTHSC
Here's a Q&A with a few students from the University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth about their first week of school.
1) How did you prepare for the start of PA school?
Student A: To tell you all the truth, I knew I was not going to have much free time after school started, so I did not do any studying. I guess you can say I prepared by catching up with my family and friends, so that it will be more out of my system when school started. UNTHSC does offer optional pre-matriculation classes the week before orientation (which is a week before classes start) that teaches anatomy to give students a head start. The students who took the classes found them to be helpful and information overload just like everyday of PA school!
Student B: I had a year off between when I graduated from undergrad and started PA school, so I took a few elective classes to keep me in the routine of school and studying. However, the month and a half to two months I had off before PA school started, I took that time to spend time with my friends and family as much as I could. I knew once school started, I would be missing that free time
Student C: My work experience was one of the greatest assets to prepare for the start of your school. I worked as a medical scribing in neurology clinic, and got hands on experience on vacation communication, basic medical knowledge, and helpful refresher on pharmacology and anatomy and physiology. During the leisure time, I also made sure that I was polishing my medical terminology. I had to settle the habit of eating breakfast.
Student D: With the help of talking to a few PA students, I came prepared with the mindset that PA school will be a fast-paced and difficult journey. You honestly don’t understand how busy it is until you’re in it. You just have to be prepared that you have to be focused the ENTIRE day. Make sure you bring your entire life with you the whole day and that you’re awake during class from 8-4pm. If that means drink up 2 cups of coffee (I drink 1 cup but I advise no more than 2), then do it! After that, it’s important to review (well, at least try the best you can) what you have learned earlier that day once you get home. Right before you sleep, make sure you’re prepared the next day (since every day/week is different for us)! I find that keeping up with life (such as cooking/cleaning/laundry/driving/grocery shopping) can take a lot of time out of studying time. I would suggest planning a week’s worth of lunch & dinner so you don’t waste your time cooking every night and definitely suggest planning errands weekly to be time-efficient!
Since weekdays are super intense and hectic with classes during the day and material reviewing at night, make sure to take a day off on the weekend just to do what you like to do non-school related, such as hanging out with family/significant others, exploring the city, cooking, fishing…etc. I assure you - You won’t regret the time off just to de-stress and doing the things you prioritized over school. If everything you do is just school, school, school, then you will get tired out fast. Older students advised us to think of 3 things you would want to do besides school and have a proper balance between those 3 things with school!
Student E: Coming into PA school, I knew the work would be very challenging, demanding, and intense. I can sense myself being overwhelmed with information and knowledge. However, in order to prepare for this upcoming challenge, I constantly remind myself to stay mentally strong, motivated, and focused. I feel that is the only way to survive the vast amount of information that I will have to learn and master in the next 34 months.
2) What has been the most interesting thing you have learned so far? What has been the hardest?
Student A: The most interesting thing I have learned has been how knowledgeable and dedicated everyone in my class is. My classmates come from all different backgrounds and have had numerous health care work experience. I have learned that every person has something to teach everyone else. It is all about team work!
The hardest thing for me has been adjusting to the rigorous schedule. We have 8 am classes that last until 4 pm most days. Sometimes we get out at 2 or 3 pm on Fridays. After class, we come home, eat, shower and study until bedtime. After exams we don't do much for the next few days :). It easy to fall behind if you do not keep up with the class material. I wouldn't say it isn't too hard (so far). The toughest part is the amount of material we learn each day. It seems like we cover half a semester's worth of material in a week! UTD offers an excellent science program, so much of the material I am learning now is just review from undergrad.
Student B: The most interesting thing that I have learned so far is how to take vital signs and do a integument exam in our Physical Exam Skills class. I am really excited about that class and learning how to actually perform a physical exam on a patient. The hardest has been managing the amount of material that comes at you at once and making sure you are staying ahead of the material that you need to study.
Student C: Most interesting thing I have learned so far is how everything I learned so far since middle school or high school and throughout my undergraduate school makes a full circle and has prepared me to take on this meticulous program. The hardest thing I have learned so far would be neuroanatomy.
Student D: We have this class called Medical Interviewing and so far I have learned a great deal about how we should conduct our interviews with patients. What kind of mindset we should have while listening and observing patients and what we can assess from how patients explain their complaints and medical histories. That class is very interesting in the fact that I could never guessed how useful each class would be and now I can see the importance of taking this course.
The hardest class would be Clinical Anatomy for me because it has been two years since I have taken Anatomy & Physiology. I don’t remember the terms for any anatomical structures and it takes some time for me to get familiar what each structure is. I’m a big picture person so I need to understand what they do instead of just memorizing what they are, so have a good idea what kind of learner you are. In addition, it is very important to know the structures from the cadavers so it’s another thing to take time to visit lab after school hours to correctly identify the structures on real human bodies. Make sure you find your weakness from your first exam in every class and see how you can improve on studying!
Student E: The most interesting I have learned so far is learning how to apply the knowledge of anatomy and physiology to clinical situations that I will likely be exposed to as a PA. The hardest thing is so far about PA school is keeping up with the materials and information that just never seem to end.
3) What study strategy has worked? What hasn't?
Student A: The second and third year PA students say that study groups will help a lot in PA school even if it was not your style in undergrad. I do feel like that is partially true because everyone has something different to add to the discussion. However, we have only had two exams and I mostly studied on my own the same way I did in undergrad. I did work in groups during anatomy lab with the cadavers and that was a very big help!
A strategy that hasn't worked for me is going into the cadaver lab or study session unprepared. It is a lot more productive to look over the material before attending, so that you know what everyone is talking about and can contribute to the group.
Student B: So far, what has helped the most is reading the material before you go over it in class, taking good notes in class, and then go over the material again after class. Looking over the material before class has helped me so much. For me, I am a visual learner. So I can't just read the material over and over again and hope it sticks. I have to draw it out in my own way and make my own outlines of the material. Also, YouTube has a video for just about any concept you will go over in class. So that is also very helpful!
Student C: Memorizing doesn't work when you are in PA school. You have to make a habit of learning in a way that we can relate to clinically. Group study helps with physiology. I'm sticking to daily routine and sustainable study habit is the way to go.
Student D: Studying right after a whole day of school DOES NOT work. I used to take naps all the time but I figured studying right after school would be the way to be “most productive.” I was trying to make use of the time outside of school and sleep time for studying but after a week of it, I didn’t get much out of time spent on “studying” and I was tired all the time. Make sure you take breaks so you are refreshed in between studying. If you need to take a nap, then definitely do so! Just don't take a long nap but sleep reinforced your memory retention. Also, I used to study by myself a lot during college, but I heard group studying helps so I started doing that first week of school. Make sure you self-study some materials first and also make a study group with various classmates to figure out who are you best studying with. It’s useful when you study with classmates so you could see in what areas you can help one another to understand the materials.
Student E: In undergraduate, I used to be able to get away with studying a day or two before an exam. However in PA school, I have constantly reviewed the materials after class which has helped me tremendously in retaining the information. This has allowed me to keep up with my other courses and avoid constantly struggling to keep up.
4) What do you like about PA school vs. undergrad studies?
Student A: I like how everyone in PA school genuinely wants to be here. Everyone works hard, pays attention in class, and is eager to learn. From what the second and third year students tell us, the class average for most exams are high B's and sometimes even A's. :)
Student B: In PA school, you really learn how to take what you learn in class and apply it in a clinical way. It is so much more than memorization. You have to start thinking in a clinical way, which was a big change for me from undergrad. However, the material is all information that will help you in your career as a PA. That makes it much more enjoyable and easier to understand.
Student C: The difference I see in PA school versus undergraduate studies is how I see equally motivated colleagues around me and how we are working hard for the "golden egg". I definitely enjoyed not taking Chemistry, Spanish, Physics classes but all the subjects are pertinent to the goal we are pursuing.
Student D: 1. Helpfulness. Everyone wants to help one another. It’s no longer a competition. Make sure there’s a Dropbox account so everyone can share useful documents. It has been working out amazing for our class!
2. Direct focus of the curriculum. No extra work – even if there are random quizzes or papers to do, everything is going to be useful towards your career and for patient care. They make you busy for a reason. School will be hard but it’s definitely do-able; It is hard and busy so you are used to the busy schedule in the real world
Student E: I love the amount of depth and details we are exposed to in our courses. I constantly find myself learning more things on my own in PA school which I believe will help me prepare for exams.
1) How did you prepare for the start of PA school?
Student A: To tell you all the truth, I knew I was not going to have much free time after school started, so I did not do any studying. I guess you can say I prepared by catching up with my family and friends, so that it will be more out of my system when school started. UNTHSC does offer optional pre-matriculation classes the week before orientation (which is a week before classes start) that teaches anatomy to give students a head start. The students who took the classes found them to be helpful and information overload just like everyday of PA school!
Student B: I had a year off between when I graduated from undergrad and started PA school, so I took a few elective classes to keep me in the routine of school and studying. However, the month and a half to two months I had off before PA school started, I took that time to spend time with my friends and family as much as I could. I knew once school started, I would be missing that free time
Student C: My work experience was one of the greatest assets to prepare for the start of your school. I worked as a medical scribing in neurology clinic, and got hands on experience on vacation communication, basic medical knowledge, and helpful refresher on pharmacology and anatomy and physiology. During the leisure time, I also made sure that I was polishing my medical terminology. I had to settle the habit of eating breakfast.
Student D: With the help of talking to a few PA students, I came prepared with the mindset that PA school will be a fast-paced and difficult journey. You honestly don’t understand how busy it is until you’re in it. You just have to be prepared that you have to be focused the ENTIRE day. Make sure you bring your entire life with you the whole day and that you’re awake during class from 8-4pm. If that means drink up 2 cups of coffee (I drink 1 cup but I advise no more than 2), then do it! After that, it’s important to review (well, at least try the best you can) what you have learned earlier that day once you get home. Right before you sleep, make sure you’re prepared the next day (since every day/week is different for us)! I find that keeping up with life (such as cooking/cleaning/laundry/driving/grocery shopping) can take a lot of time out of studying time. I would suggest planning a week’s worth of lunch & dinner so you don’t waste your time cooking every night and definitely suggest planning errands weekly to be time-efficient!
Since weekdays are super intense and hectic with classes during the day and material reviewing at night, make sure to take a day off on the weekend just to do what you like to do non-school related, such as hanging out with family/significant others, exploring the city, cooking, fishing…etc. I assure you - You won’t regret the time off just to de-stress and doing the things you prioritized over school. If everything you do is just school, school, school, then you will get tired out fast. Older students advised us to think of 3 things you would want to do besides school and have a proper balance between those 3 things with school!
Student E: Coming into PA school, I knew the work would be very challenging, demanding, and intense. I can sense myself being overwhelmed with information and knowledge. However, in order to prepare for this upcoming challenge, I constantly remind myself to stay mentally strong, motivated, and focused. I feel that is the only way to survive the vast amount of information that I will have to learn and master in the next 34 months.
2) What has been the most interesting thing you have learned so far? What has been the hardest?
Student A: The most interesting thing I have learned has been how knowledgeable and dedicated everyone in my class is. My classmates come from all different backgrounds and have had numerous health care work experience. I have learned that every person has something to teach everyone else. It is all about team work!
The hardest thing for me has been adjusting to the rigorous schedule. We have 8 am classes that last until 4 pm most days. Sometimes we get out at 2 or 3 pm on Fridays. After class, we come home, eat, shower and study until bedtime. After exams we don't do much for the next few days :). It easy to fall behind if you do not keep up with the class material. I wouldn't say it isn't too hard (so far). The toughest part is the amount of material we learn each day. It seems like we cover half a semester's worth of material in a week! UTD offers an excellent science program, so much of the material I am learning now is just review from undergrad.
Student B: The most interesting thing that I have learned so far is how to take vital signs and do a integument exam in our Physical Exam Skills class. I am really excited about that class and learning how to actually perform a physical exam on a patient. The hardest has been managing the amount of material that comes at you at once and making sure you are staying ahead of the material that you need to study.
Student C: Most interesting thing I have learned so far is how everything I learned so far since middle school or high school and throughout my undergraduate school makes a full circle and has prepared me to take on this meticulous program. The hardest thing I have learned so far would be neuroanatomy.
Student D: We have this class called Medical Interviewing and so far I have learned a great deal about how we should conduct our interviews with patients. What kind of mindset we should have while listening and observing patients and what we can assess from how patients explain their complaints and medical histories. That class is very interesting in the fact that I could never guessed how useful each class would be and now I can see the importance of taking this course.
The hardest class would be Clinical Anatomy for me because it has been two years since I have taken Anatomy & Physiology. I don’t remember the terms for any anatomical structures and it takes some time for me to get familiar what each structure is. I’m a big picture person so I need to understand what they do instead of just memorizing what they are, so have a good idea what kind of learner you are. In addition, it is very important to know the structures from the cadavers so it’s another thing to take time to visit lab after school hours to correctly identify the structures on real human bodies. Make sure you find your weakness from your first exam in every class and see how you can improve on studying!
Student E: The most interesting I have learned so far is learning how to apply the knowledge of anatomy and physiology to clinical situations that I will likely be exposed to as a PA. The hardest thing is so far about PA school is keeping up with the materials and information that just never seem to end.
3) What study strategy has worked? What hasn't?
Student A: The second and third year PA students say that study groups will help a lot in PA school even if it was not your style in undergrad. I do feel like that is partially true because everyone has something different to add to the discussion. However, we have only had two exams and I mostly studied on my own the same way I did in undergrad. I did work in groups during anatomy lab with the cadavers and that was a very big help!
A strategy that hasn't worked for me is going into the cadaver lab or study session unprepared. It is a lot more productive to look over the material before attending, so that you know what everyone is talking about and can contribute to the group.
Student B: So far, what has helped the most is reading the material before you go over it in class, taking good notes in class, and then go over the material again after class. Looking over the material before class has helped me so much. For me, I am a visual learner. So I can't just read the material over and over again and hope it sticks. I have to draw it out in my own way and make my own outlines of the material. Also, YouTube has a video for just about any concept you will go over in class. So that is also very helpful!
Student C: Memorizing doesn't work when you are in PA school. You have to make a habit of learning in a way that we can relate to clinically. Group study helps with physiology. I'm sticking to daily routine and sustainable study habit is the way to go.
Student D: Studying right after a whole day of school DOES NOT work. I used to take naps all the time but I figured studying right after school would be the way to be “most productive.” I was trying to make use of the time outside of school and sleep time for studying but after a week of it, I didn’t get much out of time spent on “studying” and I was tired all the time. Make sure you take breaks so you are refreshed in between studying. If you need to take a nap, then definitely do so! Just don't take a long nap but sleep reinforced your memory retention. Also, I used to study by myself a lot during college, but I heard group studying helps so I started doing that first week of school. Make sure you self-study some materials first and also make a study group with various classmates to figure out who are you best studying with. It’s useful when you study with classmates so you could see in what areas you can help one another to understand the materials.
Student E: In undergraduate, I used to be able to get away with studying a day or two before an exam. However in PA school, I have constantly reviewed the materials after class which has helped me tremendously in retaining the information. This has allowed me to keep up with my other courses and avoid constantly struggling to keep up.
4) What do you like about PA school vs. undergrad studies?
Student A: I like how everyone in PA school genuinely wants to be here. Everyone works hard, pays attention in class, and is eager to learn. From what the second and third year students tell us, the class average for most exams are high B's and sometimes even A's. :)
Student B: In PA school, you really learn how to take what you learn in class and apply it in a clinical way. It is so much more than memorization. You have to start thinking in a clinical way, which was a big change for me from undergrad. However, the material is all information that will help you in your career as a PA. That makes it much more enjoyable and easier to understand.
Student C: The difference I see in PA school versus undergraduate studies is how I see equally motivated colleagues around me and how we are working hard for the "golden egg". I definitely enjoyed not taking Chemistry, Spanish, Physics classes but all the subjects are pertinent to the goal we are pursuing.
Student D: 1. Helpfulness. Everyone wants to help one another. It’s no longer a competition. Make sure there’s a Dropbox account so everyone can share useful documents. It has been working out amazing for our class!
2. Direct focus of the curriculum. No extra work – even if there are random quizzes or papers to do, everything is going to be useful towards your career and for patient care. They make you busy for a reason. School will be hard but it’s definitely do-able; It is hard and busy so you are used to the busy schedule in the real world
Student E: I love the amount of depth and details we are exposed to in our courses. I constantly find myself learning more things on my own in PA school which I believe will help me prepare for exams.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Interview with a Cardiology PA-C
1) Why did you become a Physician Assistant?
I knew I wanted to go into medicine from a very young age. I was fortunate to work in an office during the summer where they had PAs and got to see what they do. So going into undergrad I knew I wanted to be a PA. I love helping people and realized that mid-levels got to actually spend time with the patients and not have the hassle of running your own practice like an MD. To me it is the best of both worlds: you get a lot of responsibility and autonomy but without the headaches of running a business (which I had no interest in).
2) Tell me about your application process (how did you get ready, how many schools did you apply to? Who did you interview with, what as it like, etc)
This was a while ago but I applied I think the first year CASPA was available. I don’t know how it is now but you could choose 8 schools to apply to with one fee. So I took advantage and applied to 8 schools. Several of the schools that are available now in Texas did not have a program when I was applying. I interviewed with Health Science Center in San Antonio and Rosalind Franklin in Chicago. I got an offer to interview for NOVA in Florida but did not go. The interview consisted of tour, meeting current students and faculty and of course the interview. At San Antonio the interview was panel style where you had one interview in front of 4 or 5 staff. At Rosalind Franklin I interviewed with a few different faculty separately.
3) What made you pick your program? While you were there, what stood out to you about your program?
I chose Rosalind Franklin because I really like the facilities, the staff, and what they told me about the program. While I was there I really appreciated that they had us take A&P as a summer course and did not load up a lot of other courses with it. We were able to focus on that very important first class. I also liked that quite of few of our courses (especially pharmacology ones) were done with the medical school students.
4) What area do you practice in? What other areas have you practiced in?
I currently practice in Cardiology but I have also done Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine.
5) What does a normal day look like for you? What kinds of things do you do?
My current job is just clinic. I have split between hospital and clinic at other jobs which was nice because they are so different. You would get tired of being in the clinic and then I could leave and go round at the hospital. It kind of shook things up! Now I work in a busy cardiology office and they don’t really need the mid-levels to go to the hospital. Plenty to do in the office! I see patients throughout the day both on my own and with an MD. I also supervise stress testing and we get called back to testing if anything out of the ordinary is going on. I call patients back with test results and for any questions they have. The docs here do not do any phone calls and therefore the mid-levels do all of the ones that the medical assistants can not do.
6) How is being a PA different than you expected when you were a student?
It really isn’t all that different than what I expected. The PAs that I shadowed and did my clinical rotations with gave an accurate portrayal of the profession.
7) What professional evolution do you hope to see next for PAs?
I hope that we continue to become better known and accepted. I still have patients ask me when I’m going to finish school, be a doctor, etc. I want patients to become familiar with our profession so they feel confident that we are capable and knowledgeable to see them, treat them, and order appropriate testing.
There is some talk right now about our profession going to having to specialize in certain fields. I personally have changed between specialties and think it is one of the major advantages of our profession.
8) Any advice for future applicants?
I have seen people in my profession who have a really hard time having to work under someone and the ultimate decision being up to the physician. I always wonder why these people just didn’t go to med school. I would just recommend that you realize at the end of the day that we work under a physician and although we normally get a lot of autonomy that is not always the case.
I think PA schools are looking for those well rounded people (grades are decent, medical experience, passion for healthcare, volunteering, shadowing a PA to show you are familiar with the profession and know what you are getting into!) – having just one of these things is not going to cut it.
Don’t give up. Reapply! Our profession is worth it! Good luck!
I knew I wanted to go into medicine from a very young age. I was fortunate to work in an office during the summer where they had PAs and got to see what they do. So going into undergrad I knew I wanted to be a PA. I love helping people and realized that mid-levels got to actually spend time with the patients and not have the hassle of running your own practice like an MD. To me it is the best of both worlds: you get a lot of responsibility and autonomy but without the headaches of running a business (which I had no interest in).
2) Tell me about your application process (how did you get ready, how many schools did you apply to? Who did you interview with, what as it like, etc)
This was a while ago but I applied I think the first year CASPA was available. I don’t know how it is now but you could choose 8 schools to apply to with one fee. So I took advantage and applied to 8 schools. Several of the schools that are available now in Texas did not have a program when I was applying. I interviewed with Health Science Center in San Antonio and Rosalind Franklin in Chicago. I got an offer to interview for NOVA in Florida but did not go. The interview consisted of tour, meeting current students and faculty and of course the interview. At San Antonio the interview was panel style where you had one interview in front of 4 or 5 staff. At Rosalind Franklin I interviewed with a few different faculty separately.
3) What made you pick your program? While you were there, what stood out to you about your program?
I chose Rosalind Franklin because I really like the facilities, the staff, and what they told me about the program. While I was there I really appreciated that they had us take A&P as a summer course and did not load up a lot of other courses with it. We were able to focus on that very important first class. I also liked that quite of few of our courses (especially pharmacology ones) were done with the medical school students.
4) What area do you practice in? What other areas have you practiced in?
I currently practice in Cardiology but I have also done Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine.
5) What does a normal day look like for you? What kinds of things do you do?
My current job is just clinic. I have split between hospital and clinic at other jobs which was nice because they are so different. You would get tired of being in the clinic and then I could leave and go round at the hospital. It kind of shook things up! Now I work in a busy cardiology office and they don’t really need the mid-levels to go to the hospital. Plenty to do in the office! I see patients throughout the day both on my own and with an MD. I also supervise stress testing and we get called back to testing if anything out of the ordinary is going on. I call patients back with test results and for any questions they have. The docs here do not do any phone calls and therefore the mid-levels do all of the ones that the medical assistants can not do.
6) How is being a PA different than you expected when you were a student?
It really isn’t all that different than what I expected. The PAs that I shadowed and did my clinical rotations with gave an accurate portrayal of the profession.
7) What professional evolution do you hope to see next for PAs?
I hope that we continue to become better known and accepted. I still have patients ask me when I’m going to finish school, be a doctor, etc. I want patients to become familiar with our profession so they feel confident that we are capable and knowledgeable to see them, treat them, and order appropriate testing.
There is some talk right now about our profession going to having to specialize in certain fields. I personally have changed between specialties and think it is one of the major advantages of our profession.
8) Any advice for future applicants?
I have seen people in my profession who have a really hard time having to work under someone and the ultimate decision being up to the physician. I always wonder why these people just didn’t go to med school. I would just recommend that you realize at the end of the day that we work under a physician and although we normally get a lot of autonomy that is not always the case.
I think PA schools are looking for those well rounded people (grades are decent, medical experience, passion for healthcare, volunteering, shadowing a PA to show you are familiar with the profession and know what you are getting into!) – having just one of these things is not going to cut it.
Don’t give up. Reapply! Our profession is worth it! Good luck!
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Interview with a Family Practice PA-C
1. Why did you become a PA?
I became a PA because I wanted the best of both worlds. I value family time as well as a good career. The PA profession allowed me to work almost autonomously as a healthcare provider while still having the ability to focus on my personal life with my husband and children. I wanted the abilities to see patients, diagnose and treat both the acute and chronic issues but without the extreme years of schooling and residency and liability. Thus, PA school was the ideal goal for me.
2) How did you prepare to apply to PA school? (Undergraduate degree, work, volunteering, etc)
I always knew I loved medicine. So I became an EMT-B at 18 years old and worked as a clinic technician at Children’s Hospital throughout my college years. During my college years, I majored in Biology just to cover most prerequisites for a medical background. I also used my time at Children’s to learn as much as possible from the staff there as well as gain as much experiences with procedures as I could: IVs, lab draws, NG tube placements, etc. After graduating college, I wanted make sure that I truly wanted to pursue a career in medicine by doing something else that I enjoy: teaching. I started teaching intercity kids in various cities including the Bronx, Chicago and Memphis. Although I truly loved what I did there, my time teaching confirmed my definite decision to go into medicine.
3) Tell me about your application process (how many times, how many interviews, what were they like etc)
I did not apply to PA school until I was confident that this was the right path for me given all my priorities for my future. I applied to four schools in Texas and had interviews set for all 4. My first choice was UTSW and luckily it was also my first interview. A few days after my interview, I was accepted so I cancelled the other 3 school interviews.
4) How did you pick UTSW?
I picked UTSW for many reasons: it was the closest to my family; has an excellent reputation for the PA program; 100% pass rate on PANCE; small classes of 36; associated with excellent teaching facilities such as Parkland, St. Pauls, etc.
5) What were some successful study strategies you used during the didactic potion of your PA program?
Constant and steady studying daily. No procrastination!!! I learned to study in groups but realized group studying was best only after each person already studied the material individually. As a group we also divided up sections so that we can “teach” the others in the group. One of the best way to learn is to teach. That’s why during rotations, I always followed the mantra: see one, do one, teach one.
6) What has surprised you about PA school so far?
For an applicant, I would say it’s not just about the “good grades and shadowing experiences.” Rather, it’s also about who you are as a person including your life experiences and what makes you stand out from the thousands of applicants. What are your passions in life and why? Grades are important but are you able to connect with people, particularly those who have nothing in common with you? As a PA, you are expected to interact with people and form a trusting relationship with them so that together you can aim for the same goal: good health? What qualities do you have that will allow you to do this?
Finally, I think there are two important points for PA students to keep in mind:
1. Your rotations are not only opportunities to solidify what you learned in the classrooms, but they are also potential job opportunities. Do your best and network with the entire staff: providers, front desk, back office, nurses, MA. These are the people who can help to direct you to your first job as a PA.
2. Think about what you want to do before just applying to any job. It is ok to change later if you realize you don’t like it, but try to be as honest with yourself as possible. With all jobs but especially with your first job, do not be blinded by the salary offered. The single most important factor is the MD-PA relationship. If you do not like or trust your supervising MD, your time at the clinic will be miserable. Additionally, place greater emphasis on quality of life, hours/schedules, calls, benefits (CME allowances, medical insurance, 401K, etc). If you choose a job because the pay is extremely high, you will soon realize that there’s a reason for that. Go into an interview was the attitude that you are also interviewing the employer. What makes that employer someone you want to work for? When you make yourself desperate, you will get a low quality job that can result in being unhappy with your career.
For example, I want autonomy as a PA so right now I am running a PA only clinic for THPG. I have a supervising MD who has her own clinic 25 min away. She comes once a month to review charts. I am well compensated but I tried to negotiate into my contract other things that were more important: hours/schedules, compensation package (CME/license renewal fees, journal subscriptions, medical/dental insurance, 401K, etc.)
Rotations were by far the best experiences during PA school. It was during this time that all the didactics finally made sense when put into practice. It was now time to make sense of what I had learned in the classroom and learning seemed easier when applied in practice. The most surprising thing for me was to learn that I loved family practice. I came into it thinking FP would be my least favorite but today I find that it is my favorite!
7) Any advice (beyond good grade and shadowing) for an applicant?
I didn’t realize it was as intense until in hindsight. College seemed difficult but in reality it was not as rigorous as PA school. I also realized that time does fly quickly once you’re in so school was over before I knew it!
8) What keeps you interested in family practice? What other specialties have you practiced in?
I became a PA because I wanted the best of both worlds. I value family time as well as a good career. The PA profession allowed me to work almost autonomously as a healthcare provider while still having the ability to focus on my personal life with my husband and children. I wanted the abilities to see patients, diagnose and treat both the acute and chronic issues but without the extreme years of schooling and residency and liability. Thus, PA school was the ideal goal for me.
2) How did you prepare to apply to PA school? (Undergraduate degree, work, volunteering, etc)
I always knew I loved medicine. So I became an EMT-B at 18 years old and worked as a clinic technician at Children’s Hospital throughout my college years. During my college years, I majored in Biology just to cover most prerequisites for a medical background. I also used my time at Children’s to learn as much as possible from the staff there as well as gain as much experiences with procedures as I could: IVs, lab draws, NG tube placements, etc. After graduating college, I wanted make sure that I truly wanted to pursue a career in medicine by doing something else that I enjoy: teaching. I started teaching intercity kids in various cities including the Bronx, Chicago and Memphis. Although I truly loved what I did there, my time teaching confirmed my definite decision to go into medicine.
3) Tell me about your application process (how many times, how many interviews, what were they like etc)
I did not apply to PA school until I was confident that this was the right path for me given all my priorities for my future. I applied to four schools in Texas and had interviews set for all 4. My first choice was UTSW and luckily it was also my first interview. A few days after my interview, I was accepted so I cancelled the other 3 school interviews.
4) How did you pick UTSW?
I picked UTSW for many reasons: it was the closest to my family; has an excellent reputation for the PA program; 100% pass rate on PANCE; small classes of 36; associated with excellent teaching facilities such as Parkland, St. Pauls, etc.
5) What were some successful study strategies you used during the didactic potion of your PA program?
Constant and steady studying daily. No procrastination!!! I learned to study in groups but realized group studying was best only after each person already studied the material individually. As a group we also divided up sections so that we can “teach” the others in the group. One of the best way to learn is to teach. That’s why during rotations, I always followed the mantra: see one, do one, teach one.
6) What has surprised you about PA school so far?
For an applicant, I would say it’s not just about the “good grades and shadowing experiences.” Rather, it’s also about who you are as a person including your life experiences and what makes you stand out from the thousands of applicants. What are your passions in life and why? Grades are important but are you able to connect with people, particularly those who have nothing in common with you? As a PA, you are expected to interact with people and form a trusting relationship with them so that together you can aim for the same goal: good health? What qualities do you have that will allow you to do this?
Finally, I think there are two important points for PA students to keep in mind:
1. Your rotations are not only opportunities to solidify what you learned in the classrooms, but they are also potential job opportunities. Do your best and network with the entire staff: providers, front desk, back office, nurses, MA. These are the people who can help to direct you to your first job as a PA.
2. Think about what you want to do before just applying to any job. It is ok to change later if you realize you don’t like it, but try to be as honest with yourself as possible. With all jobs but especially with your first job, do not be blinded by the salary offered. The single most important factor is the MD-PA relationship. If you do not like or trust your supervising MD, your time at the clinic will be miserable. Additionally, place greater emphasis on quality of life, hours/schedules, calls, benefits (CME allowances, medical insurance, 401K, etc). If you choose a job because the pay is extremely high, you will soon realize that there’s a reason for that. Go into an interview was the attitude that you are also interviewing the employer. What makes that employer someone you want to work for? When you make yourself desperate, you will get a low quality job that can result in being unhappy with your career.
For example, I want autonomy as a PA so right now I am running a PA only clinic for THPG. I have a supervising MD who has her own clinic 25 min away. She comes once a month to review charts. I am well compensated but I tried to negotiate into my contract other things that were more important: hours/schedules, compensation package (CME/license renewal fees, journal subscriptions, medical/dental insurance, 401K, etc.)
Rotations were by far the best experiences during PA school. It was during this time that all the didactics finally made sense when put into practice. It was now time to make sense of what I had learned in the classroom and learning seemed easier when applied in practice. The most surprising thing for me was to learn that I loved family practice. I came into it thinking FP would be my least favorite but today I find that it is my favorite!
7) Any advice (beyond good grade and shadowing) for an applicant?
I didn’t realize it was as intense until in hindsight. College seemed difficult but in reality it was not as rigorous as PA school. I also realized that time does fly quickly once you’re in so school was over before I knew it!
8) What keeps you interested in family practice? What other specialties have you practiced in?
I love FP bc I enjoy the variety of health issues (physicals, well exams, acute infections, chronic problems like HTN, DM, thyroid, etc) and the many types of procedures (biopsies, paps, suturing, I&D, etc). Additionally, I am big on preventative medicine and I use lots of teaching tools to help education patients and encourage them to ask me questions. That’s why I say that patient education is a big theme at my clinic and I find that patients are extremely receptive to learning and greatly appreciate when they have some autonomy in their care. Often times patients are told what they have and what they have to do without an explanation of the process behind their issues and how they can join the provider to improve their situation. Other areas I’ve worked include: geriatrics and allergy/asthma
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