PA school help

United States
June 15, 2008 10:11pm CST
Anyone out there a PA? I plan to re-apply to PA school this fall and was wondering if anyone had any tips on getting in. My main problems last year were the GRE and not enough patient care hours. I plan on re-taking the GRE, but I'm having problem getting the hours. I have a PRN tech job in OP rehab at a hospital, but I need more than that. I want to do phlebotomy, but don't have time right now to take a class, and it doesn't seem like anyone does "on the job" training anymore. Any suggestions?
1 response
• United States
4 Jul 08
While I am not a PA, I am a pre-health professions student at a university. I can share with you what my advisor has told us about PA school. PA schools generally look at several factors when evaluating an application: grades in all your classes, grades in science and math classes, GRE scores, patient contact hours, other activities, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and the interview. The PA profession began as a way for former military medics to practice medicine under the supervision of a physician. Previous experience is one of the main factors that separates PA school applicants from other health professions applicants. Some schools will not accept phlebotomy, but others will. Check with the specific schools to which you are applying. I would get as many books as possible and practice like crazy for the GRE. The rehab job sounds good. I might suggest CNA or EMT training to up your patient contact. CNAs and EMTs are often trained in phlebotomy as well. You might also consider using previous coursework to gain experience. For instance, a psychology major might be able to volunteer in child life, pastoral care, psychiatric rehabilitation, etc. If you know a second language, you could provide interpretive services. Try to get as much volunteer and paid experience as possible. Lastly, consider boosting your community participation and getting clinical research experience. Hope this helps!