AB It's a GREAT profession!!! Please subscribe to my channel! I've got some good advice for applying. I sat on the boards of admission of some outstanding PA schools! Peace! Omar "Dr.O the PA Pro" Abdul-Malik DHEd, MPAS, PA-C 🤓
IPHLO,LLC w/Dr.O the PA Pro thank you!!! I got so many more sciences I need to take before applying! but I pray when the time come I get accepted somewhere.
Great video. Duke is expensive isn't it? In my CRNA class there is a guy who used to be an x-ray/CT tech and went back to nursing school, then started working in the ICU and applied to CRNA school and got in. He's in his 40's so it's never too late to follow your dreams.
I just wanted to say thank you for sharing. may God continue to bless hour ministry. I'm getting ready to start my 7yrs journey to PA and I am excited. I currently work as a laboratory assistant in microbiology. I've been in the clinical laboratory field for 7yrs and I feel that now is the time for me to turn up the heat. This video was confirmation for me because I'm 30 yrs old and I told my mom I feel I'm too old, but it's never to late to follow your dreams. Thank you very much! happy new year
This is encouraging to me. I've been an xray tech for over 20 years now and I am starting to take prerequisites for the PA program. Wish I would have done this 8 years ago when it crossed my mind the first time but hey never too late. :)
Can you do more videos related to this topic of being a young black physician assistant! I just tried researching videos related but their mostly men or Physicians and not PAs! I want something I can relate to lol. I am a young black female who hopes to become a PA and little motivation and inspiration is always a great thing! I would love to see more videos related to this matter.
You are awesome!! I always come back to this video every time I question myself if I’m smart enough or good enough since English is not my first language and I’m not the smartest. 💖💖
Thank you for sharing this information. You are amazing. You gave me the motivation to strive for my Masters in Healthcare Administration or Public Health.! I am at my current job that is in a different career field and just by listening to you brought flutters in my stomach. I always felt as though that The job that I am currently in is not something that I choose to do for the entirety of my life. I have one year left from my Bachelors and I already feel that my Masters is in the making. My G.P.A is only 3.30 ( Cumulative). Continue to pray for me & Congratulations to you and your future endeavors. You are so genuine! For the records,,,YOU ARE FAR FROM OLD. IM 40!!!
This was truly helpful I was going back and forth between Doctor of Osteopathic medicine and Physician Assistant and I am definitely going for PA . Thanks for sharing
I did more research and talked to some PAs and PA students and shadowed and I'm definitely set on being a PA. I prayed about it everyone that came into my path over the past 2 weeks who were related to the profession just reassured me that I was on the right track.
Stylishlyfun That sounds amazing. I'm in my senior year of undergrad and I feel like I'm panicking trying to figure out my career. How did you find PAs to shadow and how did you get patient care experience, if you don't mind me asking?
+Tyia Taylor I currently do an internship at UAB so I spoke with the someone in admissions and he gave me a few graduates who have agreed to do shadowing. I don't currently have any hours, mostly volunteer and a few shadowing. This year I plan to do a medical mission trip and other ways of getting hours. Since you're a senior, maybe you could do a phlebotomy certification after graduation and get hours that way, possibly get to work with PAs, and work on your application.
I really appreciate this video. I am currently working on my undergrad at WKU. Physician Assisting is my absolute dream and you have helped boost my confidence in myself and encouraged me to work harder. thank you
OMG This video is heaven sent!! I just graduated with my B.A. in Biology and I'm planning to become a Physician Assistant and this was so encouraging to me. You we're so real and honest in your video and you really just gave me the encouragement that I needed to keep going. THANK YOU SO MUCH!
Can you break it down for someone starting from scratch barely gonna be going into Community college? What are the steps...sort of like a "How to become a PA For dummies" lol....seriously I need this. Step by step. PLEASEEEEEE
step by step - get a bachelor's degree (BA or BS), it's easier if you get a degree in an allied health field (radiology, lab science, nursing etc) that way you can get some pre-requisites out of the way and get a job after as a lot of PA programs will require you to have some patient-related work experience. If you have your bachelor's degree and NO patient related experience, then look into getting a certification as an EMT, pharmacy tech, medical assistant, certified nursing assistant. Make sure you have taken all of the required science/math courses (as outlined by the school you want to attend) and take the GRE. Apply, write a compelling personal statement, get accepted :)
2 years at a community college to get your associates degree and another 2-3 years at a university for your bachelors. Community colleges only go up to associates degree
This video is heaven sent! Lol. I'm a junior in high school and I just had a meeting with my college counselor on becoming a PA. This helps so much hearing from someone who has experience and now I know the basics on what I'll experiencing in the future. Thanks so much for this video!
This video was incredibly helpful! I currently attend the University of Miami in hopes to get my bachelor's in health science and I want to keep going for my masters in PA! :)
May I just say that you saved my whole life watching this video I gained clarity and confirmation and decided to become a PA. As a sophomore in college, I was loosing hope that I would not find anything in the medical field school for me. I came across PA without knowing what it truly was so I recently done some research and am amazed and excited to start. I didn't believe it was true until I done some research but It's what I want. work/life balance, pay, and schooling is all plusses and what I have been looking for. A few questions I have though is concerning debt and if PA has liability insurance? whether or not you can call a PA a "doctor"? Do you choose your schedule or are you given a mixture of nights and days? do you get to vacate or are you able to travel? I feel like I am worried about all the wrong things but I have my mind set on PA I've heard exactly what I wanted to hear thus far. Thank you!
Hey Hey! I'll just answer your questions in order. 1. I went to a private school so I have a lot of debt ... same when you choose an undergrad/ most employers should offer and pay for liability insurance (plus tail coverage). 2. A PA is a PA, not a doctor .. I actually get offended when someone calls me doctor, I worked hard for this degree and prefer to be labeled as such. 3. Depends on what you, all of my jobs have been different. 4. Most jobs I have had come with 2-3 weeks of paid leave, but every job is different.
This video was extremely helpful!!! I was accepted into medical school just a few months ago, and I decided not to do it, because I didn't have the mind set to do 4+ years of school then the years of residency.. I am not accepted into a PA program for next fall and this video just reassured the fact that's what I really want to do!!!
Thanks for sharing your experience. I have a niece that wants to got to med school but I don't have any Dr friends so it's been hard getting stories/testimonies that she may relate to. Your experience and why you decided to become a PA will enlighten her and also give her some things to consider. Thank you!!
Inspiring video! I'm currently a Resp. Therapist working overseas and am looking to apply for PA school once I return stateside. I loved the PA's I worked with back home. Thanks for uploading this.
I love that part of your job you love is patient education. Thats something I am looking for and one of the reasons I might have been thinking more about nurse practitioner school. This gives me a better understanding of the pa practice so thanks!
Wow. Looking for new career and was interested in xray technologist and going to med school and studying Radiology. But I'm 34! Great I found this video. Unfortunately I have to start from the beginning (never took Math English) but I'm already doing arithmetic daily and understand it completely. Math ain't that bad.
I’m planning to go to UNC Chapel Hill and get my biology major, and hopefully get into Dukes PA school!!! I am so happy to hear from someone who did it.
I'm currently an undergrad pre-med student thinking about becoming a PA and this video was super helpful! I loved hearing about your story and experiences :) great vid
So helpful! I graduate this spring with my bachelor's in human bio, and will be applying to grad school this fall. I'm so nervous, and feel like I'll never get in, but gotta keep pushing forward! Thanks for all of your wise words!
I am graduating in 9 days from Northern Arizona University with a BS in Public Health. Loved your video and am applying to at least 8 PA programs in CASPA. Thanks for this!
thank you soooo much for this video! I'm a junior at UMD currently and being a PA is my dream job! this video really encouraged me to keep going, and reminded me why I'm working so hard for this. you're a beautiful soul & just gained a subscriber (:
I recently started working at a renowned medical entity in California and quickly became privy to PA. I am excited about my future goals now because I am just like you, I need something else from what I initially planned as a career. Thank you for this video.
Thank you for this video. I have been on the fence about PA for a while and this your advise with my MUCH research has really solidified my decision :)
Very informative video. I'm looking to go back to school for PA & this just put the biggest smile on my face. Keep striving and doing what you love. Great video!!!!
Thank you for this video I went through the same thing trying to decide between MD or PA and I ultimately decided PA just because my life is in a different place now and I have shadowed a PA and her work like is something that agrees with me and my personality. I recently completed a CNA course to receive my patient care hours so I'm glad you reassured my plans. Thanks again for taking the time to do this it was very informative!
Omg and you were a rad tech! My face lit up when you said that because I was wanting to become a rad tech and then further my education and become a PA
Thank you so much for making this video it was so informative! I could really tell you love your profession. ironically UNC Chapel Hill just created a PA program and their first class will matriculate in January 2016. so many new programs are being created to fill the demand. I'm in my 2nd to last semester at community college. next fall I'm transferring to Spelman to finish my Bachelors. I also studying for my EMT certification. this video definetly helped to motivate me and assure me that this is the right path for me
thank you so much for this video. you have helped me very much by being really informative about the course. I will be applying later on this year. wish you the best for your future :)
I just saw this video and my journey is very similar! I am applying to PA schools now as a respiratory therapist. I am 3 years out of undergrad and I hope it looks good to PA schools!
Best video ever! How did you go from UNC to Duke? Did you have scholarships? SAT scores? What was your GPA ? How did you gets those good grades ? Did you have a tutor ? What study aids did you use ? What help did you have? Did you have any volunteer experience? Also while in undergrad school did you work? If so full time or part time ? Did you stay at home with family or lived alone? Sorry for so many questions but I ask all these questions because I’m seeking motivation. I will be coming from a very poor background and I’m afraid of not having enough money for something or not being smart enough which is because I again didn’t have enough money for a tutor or study aid or even the opportunity to not work and just focus on school. But I really appreciate this video.
omg now I feel SUPER old LoL I just turned 30 and I'm going back. But I agree with you, med school residents make so little money. The pay is going up depending on the specialty. Most made $25-30k. Now surgical residents make $40-50k sometimes $60k. I'm still on the fence between PA or Med school
my best advice is do what your heart says ... i think if my heart was into I would've gone to med school but my i just didn't have the will. And you certainly have to have to the will to go through that kind of committment
I'm in high school and got accepted into a technical institute where I will be taking the health professions course. This was a very helpful video as I am very interested in becoming a PA!
Wow this video definitely helped out a lot. I’m a senior biology major but will be graduating next May. I recently got my phlebotomy certification to gain more experience in the healthcare field as well as getting patient care hours. Even though i won’t be applying until next year I’m kind of freaking out about the interview. Could you do a video on preparing for the pa interviews and what kinds of questions were asked?
Angel Cody I'm a MA in dermatology and am interested in becoming a PA but I must 1st obtain my bachelors degree it's going to be a progress but I'm definitely getting it started. I'm 34 and thought I was too old however after much research I've realized that's the perfect age!! Good luck to you whatever you decide👍🏾
I am finishing up my bach. degree at my university at 25 years old! don't feel bad about age. If you have a high passion or interest for something there is never a deadline for that. Good luck on your journey!
what kind of things did you do when you were a surgical PA? I am debating on being a PA or not.. I wanted to be and still do but I wanted to do surgical but we apparently don't get to do much really the surgeon is the only one who does a lot of things. Then I figured if i worked in any other department I feel as though patients will be like, " where is the doctor you're not a doctor." I am currently a patient care tech and the patients can be so picky about who sees them and always want THE DOCTOR. And on the other hand, I really was thinking about pathologist assistant, doing autopsies looking at tissue samples and etc because i really love those things.
I would like to know, like after prerequisites and you go to a PA school for that extra two years, is everything focused on what a PA will do and practice in settings of that work field and prepare you for the exam? Like what are you doing in that two years? And so you just need to have a bachelors in something and have experience in patient care to apply to a PA school?
Thank you so much for this! I thought I had to get a RN degree before, I have my CNA and I'm getting my hours in while getting my Bachelors in health science.
You are a rockstar! I am currently about to graduate with my associates degree with a 2.5 GPA, I have taken my Anatomy and microbiology classes. I haven't taken any Chem or statistics classes and I want to start fresh with a new GPA when I transfer for my Bachelors degree. I have been a CNA for 1.5 years now with experience in Bariatrics Med/Surg. I admire Surgeons, Physicians and PA's. I noticed that PA's seemed to be more relaxed at work. You encourage me to ask one of the Surgeons to shadow them. If you don't mind me asking, some Physicians have short fuses. Does power struggle ever become an issue between MD's and PA's? Do PA's get mistreated by Physicians because of the obligation to perform at their request? I ask because being a CNA at a hospital, I have little to no control and Nurses take advantage because of my title. No one likes to be pushed around.
+michelle g. There is no "struggle" of power per se, but as a PA you have to be able to deal with criticism, constructive and otherwise, and take orders. There have been times where I didn't agree or maybe didn't understand what it was the doc wanted me to do, so i just ask for clarification. If a person is not in a good physician-PA relationship then they need to look for another job. The relationship should be respectful on both ends. I think for any job where you are the employee and not the "boss" you should ask upfront "what are your expectations" and then ask for feedback on a regular basis to make sure everyone is on the same job and communication is clear.
Going to get my Bachelor's in Radiological Sciences and apply for PA school. I'm a photographer so I'm an imaging expert and interested in the technology
Hi! Ihave a bachelors degree in fine art and one year finished in a masters program for fine art but I decided I'd rather work in health care (i originally wanted to be a professor). I'm a pca and cover the lpns shifts and feel in love with working with and helping people but I need more responsobility and want to learn way more so I'm thinking about going to pa school. My favorite thing was wound care tho are there pa's at wound clinics?
Thank you for sharing! Your video was the first thing that popped up when I typed "becoming a PA." Ironically, I received my degree in Radiologic Sciences, so, I'm very interested in watching more of your videos. Question: Were you able to work at all while in the program?
Thank you so much for all of the information I do have alot of questions and I'm working on my prerequisites now I'm going to be a clinical care tech is that considered the patient care hours that you were talking about
Hi there, I just graduated a bachelor program in "medical illustration" (accredited) and I'm up in the air about which path to go down next. Either an accelerated RN degree, or a quick LPN/CNA program to get hours to apply to a PA program. PA is really the route I want, however I'm concerned because I can't afford to live on dirt pay for a few years just to see if I can get into a PA program. Would they even consider me with a obscure Medical illustration degree? Do you have any advice?
Do you complete all your requisites in college for the bachelor's degree before applying to a PA program? Also, how much did you make when you first started out?
How do I go from being a CNA to a Physician Assistant . I want to do it What’s the first step.everyone tells me it’s hard it’s gonna take long. but I want to do it to better myself and do something I will love.
I have a B's and Ms in biological sciences I have lab experience I recently have decided to pursue a PA career. I'm trying to figure out how to get the patient contact hours. I think you mentioned laboratory science could give you clinical hours? is there a way of using my experience as hour? I also have taken care of my parents who became disabled for about 15 years I wonder if that could be used??
Hi! First off I would like to say I love this video! It was super informative and gave me a more clear idea of what it is to be a PA. Second, I will be starting college this fall and I'm struggling to figure out exactly what I want to do/ am not completely familiar with how things work exactly sorry if this question doesn't make much sense. But in your opinion would it make sense to complete a CNA program after completing my bachelors in order to complete hours before PA school? Thank you!
UNC and Duke, hope you have a house divided license plate cover on your car lol. I have a question about the profession. How much bedside time do you spend with a patient When I was doing my CNA clinicals I probably saw the doctor on the floor for about an hour (I was also on a rehab floor so there were PT, OT and speech therapist more). With my background (EMT and some emergency room) I hope to do Critical care, ER or trauma surgical or a mixture. I really like interacting with patients and bedside time is important to me. From my experience I see nurses do a lot more for the patient and the doctor or PA somewhere in the background giving orders. Again, my experience is limited and I would love to hear more about your experience as a PA with several years of experience under your belt.
+Nico I've been fortunate to have some jobs where do I do get to spend (a little bit) more time with patients. In my current job (urgent care), my schedule and the doc's schedule is laid out the same ... 15 minutes for a patient, that includes having their vitals taken by the MA, me seeing them, coming up with a plan, writing their note, prescriptions, etc. Not a lot of time ... but if it's a slow day or if the patient's case is more complex then yes, I will spend the extra time with them. When I was doing ortho, my time was a still a little limited but again more than the surgeon's schedule (I would round early in the morning before clinic/surgery and in between cases). Sounds like the majority of specialities you are interested in are hospital based so your experience may be a little different, especially with Critical Care or trauma surg, but i feel like with either of those the patient volume will be high and that increases the likelihood your time will be short.
Do you think that the clinical rotation hours I obtained while enrolled in a Radiation Therapy program would count towards Direct Patient Care hours? I was in direct contact with patients 3-4 days/week; 7 hrs/ day for 2 yrs. Just wondering since those clinical hours were obtained as a student and not obtained as a paid employee.
It depends on your program ... at the time Duke required those to be non-student, non-volunteer based hours so check with the programs you are wanting to apply to.
Do you get terrified of some cases like rare cases like I have a phobia of tiny holes or clusters of circles together do you see like some gross cases like that
Greetings❤️! I love your channel..I am 32 with an associates in criminal justice. However, I have been working in the medical field for over five years and I befriended several PA’s after working with them.I really am considering a career in PA. I’ve thought of getting an undergrad in social work or neuroscience then pursue PA school. Will my healthcare experience as an Administrative Assistant count or should I just wait when I’m closer to PA school to get direct patient experience? The closest direct care experience I’ve had is rounding with the Nephrologist to interpret for patients.I’m stuck between starting my direct patient experience now or focus on finishing my undergrad?
Thanks! I would focus on undergrad first. Typically your patient care hours must be with direct patient contact. Also, check with the schools that you want to apply to for their “definition” of patient care hours. Hope this helps!
Do you get to personally know a patient sometimes? I'm currently a freshman in college and I'll be talking to my adviser next semester to figure out how to get started on this path! The competitiveness does scare me I admit. I'm not sure how long it will take me to get into PA school so I have to take into consideration what major I should pick to fall back on in case PA school doesn't work out right away. Thanks for your video! It was really informative :)
+Zheng Pan getting to know the patient just kind of depends on the job. Like for instance when I was doing ortho I would see the same patient during pre-op/post-up visits and sometimes be there for their surgery so I got to know a few. Here in urgent care, it's a rare occasion that I see the same person twice (unless I have them come back for follow up) but that's just the nature of the business.
+chronicurls Hi thanks so much for replying! :) That makes sense what you said. I think I am going to stick on the road to PA. I did consider becoming a doctor but I don't like how many years that takes and how the career takes over your life if you become a doctor. I want a balance between my work life and my job. Has PA been a rewarding career for you so far?
This video is awesome. I am finishing up my last year of nursing school and have finally decided that I was meant for medicine as a PA and not nursing. My question is if you decide you no longer want to practice clinically years later, what are some other options? Can you teach or lecture instead? thanks (:
It was pretty intense but as Omar said definitely doable. In terms of tips ... honestly, I was told to rest as much as possible and that's exactly what I did lol. Just spend some extra time with family and friends and relax. If you have time you can study up on some physiology but don't overdo it. Good luck!
Yay black PA's. Ive been a Respiratory Therapist for 2 years and will be applying next summer after a few pre reqs!
I'm a RRT as well but will be applying to PA schools in a year in a half
Naderge Cerne Cool!
AB It's a GREAT profession!!! Please subscribe to my channel! I've got some good advice for applying. I sat on the boards of admission of some outstanding PA schools! Peace! Omar "Dr.O the PA Pro" Abdul-Malik DHEd, MPAS, PA-C 🤓
IPHLO,LLC w/Dr.O the PA Pro thank you!!! I got so many more sciences I need to take before applying! but I pray when the time come I get accepted somewhere.
IPHLO,LLC w/Dr.O the PA Pro will do!
Great video. Duke is expensive isn't it? In my CRNA class there is a guy who used to be an x-ray/CT tech and went back to nursing school, then started working in the ICU and applied to CRNA school and got in. He's in his 40's so it's never too late to follow your dreams.
definitely never too late. And yes Duke is expensive!
Beautiful, I too was feeling a bit apprehensive about pursing my education as I am 37 years old.
I just wanted to say thank you for sharing. may God continue to bless hour ministry. I'm getting ready to start my 7yrs journey to PA and I am excited. I currently work as a laboratory assistant in microbiology. I've been in the clinical laboratory field for 7yrs and I feel that now is the time for me to turn up the heat. This video was confirmation for me because I'm 30 yrs old and I told my mom I feel I'm too old, but it's never to late to follow your dreams. Thank you very much! happy new year
+vye Harr awesome so happy that you are following your dreams, good luck!
Brooklyn Taylor How’s your journey going?
you going from unc chapel hill to duke's pa program are my life goals 👌👌😂
+Aaron Moorer lol
This is encouraging to me. I've been an xray tech for over 20 years now and I am starting to take prerequisites for the PA program. Wish I would have done this 8 years ago when it crossed my mind the first time but hey never too late. :)
Cheryl Winings
Good Luck !
yesss never too late! Best of luck to you!
@@chronicurls I college graduate Master level now 45...you thinks it too late for PA school
Can you do more videos related to this topic of being a young black physician assistant! I just tried researching videos related but their mostly men or Physicians and not PAs! I want something I can relate to lol. I am a young black female who hopes to become a PA and little motivation and inspiration is always a great thing! I would love to see more videos related to this matter.
This was so helpful, I'm encouraged to keep pushing for it
So refreshing to have found you, I go to a pwi and it gets discouraging be the only African American perusing the PA program at my school
don't be discouraged .. there are more out there just like us ;)
You are awesome!! I always come back to this video every time I question myself if I’m smart enough or good enough since English is not my first language and I’m not the smartest. 💖💖
I want to be a dermatologist PA
They make the most money I believe. Urgent care too
same!!
Same
Thank you for sharing this information. You are amazing. You gave me the motivation to strive for my Masters in Healthcare Administration or Public Health.! I am at my current job that is in a different career field and just by listening to you brought flutters in my stomach. I always felt as though that The job that I am currently in is not something that I choose to do for the entirety of my life. I have one year left from my Bachelors and I already feel that my Masters is in the making. My G.P.A is only 3.30 ( Cumulative). Continue to pray for me & Congratulations to you and your future endeavors. You are so genuine! For the records,,,YOU ARE FAR FROM OLD. IM 40!!!
This was truly helpful I was going back and forth between Doctor of Osteopathic medicine and Physician Assistant and I am definitely going for PA . Thanks for sharing
Omg, exactly the same here
Wow that's crazy me too! But I'm still on the fence
I did more research and talked to some PAs and PA students and shadowed and I'm definitely set on being a PA. I prayed about it everyone that came into my path over the past 2 weeks who were related to the profession just reassured me that I was on the right track.
Stylishlyfun That sounds amazing. I'm in my senior year of undergrad and I feel like I'm panicking trying to figure out my career. How did you find PAs to shadow and how did you get patient care experience, if you don't mind me asking?
+Tyia Taylor I currently do an internship at UAB so I spoke with the someone in admissions and he gave me a few graduates who have agreed to do shadowing. I don't currently have any hours, mostly volunteer and a few shadowing. This year I plan to do a medical mission trip and other ways of getting hours. Since you're a senior, maybe you could do a phlebotomy certification after graduation and get hours that way, possibly get to work with PAs, and work on your application.
I really appreciate this video. I am currently working on my undergrad at WKU. Physician Assisting is my absolute dream and you have helped boost my confidence in myself and encouraged me to work harder. thank you
Wonderful! You will be a great PA. It's a very rewarding career. I did it for over 20 years and loved it.
Im an LPN on my journey to PA and I for one would like to thank you for your time and thoughtfulness of sharing this video.
OMG This video is heaven sent!! I just graduated with my B.A. in Biology and I'm planning to become a Physician Assistant and this was so encouraging to me. You we're so real and honest in your video and you really just gave me the encouragement that I needed to keep going. THANK YOU SO MUCH!
Can you break it down for someone starting from scratch barely gonna be going into Community college? What are the steps...sort of like a "How to become a PA For dummies" lol....seriously I need this. Step by step. PLEASEEEEEE
step by step - get a bachelor's degree (BA or BS), it's easier if you get a degree in an allied health field (radiology, lab science, nursing etc) that way you can get some pre-requisites out of the way and get a job after as a lot of PA programs will require you to have some patient-related work experience. If you have your bachelor's degree and NO patient related experience, then look into getting a certification as an EMT, pharmacy tech, medical assistant, certified nursing assistant. Make sure you have taken all of the required science/math courses (as outlined by the school you want to attend) and take the GRE. Apply, write a compelling personal statement, get accepted :)
You have to get a bachelors degree and at least one year of "hands on" patient experience to apply for a PA program
Okay so can i get a bachelors degree in community or do i have to do 2 years and transfer
2 years at a community college to get your associates degree and another 2-3 years at a university for your bachelors. Community colleges only go up to associates degree
ishAsianAndrew Do i have to become a LPN first if i have no experience.
This video is heaven sent! Lol. I'm a junior in high school and I just had a meeting with my college counselor on becoming a PA. This helps so much hearing from someone who has experience and now I know the basics on what I'll experiencing in the future. Thanks so much for this video!
+IamNaturallyUnique99 no problem, I hope it helped!
This video was incredibly helpful! I currently attend the University of Miami in hopes to get my bachelor's in health science and I want to keep going for my masters in PA! :)
+Kaley awesome, good luck with your journey!
I'm currently doing my bachelor's in health science, as well & have been thinking of getting my masters in PA (:
May I just say that you saved my whole life watching this video I gained clarity and confirmation and decided to become a PA. As a sophomore in college, I was loosing hope that I would not find anything in the medical field school for me. I came across PA without knowing what it truly was so I recently done some research and am amazed and excited to start. I didn't believe it was true until I done some research but It's what I want. work/life balance, pay, and schooling is all plusses and what I have been looking for. A few questions I have though is concerning debt and if PA has liability insurance? whether or not you can call a PA a "doctor"? Do you choose your schedule or are you given a mixture of nights and days? do you get to vacate or are you able to travel? I feel like I am worried about all the wrong things but I have my mind set on PA I've heard exactly what I wanted to hear thus far. Thank you!
Hey Hey! I'll just answer your questions in order. 1. I went to a private school so I have a lot of debt ... same when you choose an undergrad/ most employers should offer and pay for liability insurance (plus tail coverage). 2. A PA is a PA, not a doctor .. I actually get offended when someone calls me doctor, I worked hard for this degree and prefer to be labeled as such. 3. Depends on what you, all of my jobs have been different. 4. Most jobs I have had come with 2-3 weeks of paid leave, but every job is different.
Thanks alot!
You look great (so young) to have that many years under your belt!
+Enoswh Moore haha thank you!
You are phenomenal! I deeply appreciate how thorough and transparent you are about your experience. Thank you so much!
This video was extremely helpful!!! I was accepted into medical school just a few months ago, and I decided not to do it, because I didn't have the mind set to do 4+ years of school then the years of residency.. I am not accepted into a PA program for next fall and this video just reassured the fact that's what I really want to do!!!
+Sydney Nicole awesome, good luck!
Thanks for sharing your experience. I have a niece that wants to got to med school but I don't have any Dr friends so it's been hard getting stories/testimonies that she may relate to. Your experience and why you decided to become a PA will enlighten her and also give her some things to consider. Thank you!!
Inspiring video! I'm currently a Resp. Therapist working overseas and am looking to apply for PA school once I return stateside. I loved the PA's I worked with back home. Thanks for uploading this.
+Michael Sheehan no problem, thank you for watching!
I love that part of your job you love is patient education. Thats something I am looking for and one of the reasons I might have been thinking more about nurse practitioner school. This gives me a better understanding of the pa practice so thanks!
Wow. Looking for new career and was interested in xray technologist and going to med school and studying Radiology. But I'm 34! Great I found this video. Unfortunately I have to start from the beginning (never took Math English) but I'm already doing arithmetic daily and understand it completely. Math ain't that bad.
I’m planning to go to UNC Chapel Hill and get my biology major, and hopefully get into Dukes PA school!!! I am so happy to hear from someone who did it.
FANTASTIC video. Thank you so much! This is the best PA video I've seen yet.
I'm currently an undergrad pre-med student thinking about becoming a PA and this video was super helpful! I loved hearing about your story and experiences :) great vid
+Tim Viado thank you!
So helpful! I graduate this spring with my bachelor's in human bio, and will be applying to grad school this fall. I'm so nervous, and feel like I'll never get in, but gotta keep pushing forward! Thanks for all of your wise words!
+Sarah Chowske no problem, good luck!
I am graduating in 9 days from Northern Arizona University with a BS in Public Health. Loved your video and am applying to at least 8 PA programs in CASPA. Thanks for this!
+Stone Gyrl (stonegyrl) yay good luck!
thank you soooo much for this video! I'm a junior at UMD currently and being a PA is my dream job! this video really encouraged me to keep going, and reminded me why I'm working so hard for this. you're a beautiful soul & just gained a subscriber (:
+A. M. I. awww thank you for this. Blessings with your journey ... i am so happy this was encouraging for you :)
chronicurls soooooo i got into dpap😭🙌🏽 idk if you'll see this but i thought it might make you smile! can't wait to move to durham!
I recently started working at a renowned medical entity in California and quickly became privy to PA. I am excited about my future goals now because I am just like you, I need something else from what I initially planned as a career. Thank you for this video.
+StreetRookieFZ no prob, good luck!
the profession is definitely gaining recognition and that is making it much more competitive.
Thank you so much ! I was so stressed out and conflicted over my choice of going into PA however after watching your video it has helped so much !
+Yennie awesome!
Thank you for this video. I have been on the fence about PA for a while and this your advise with my MUCH research has really solidified my decision :)
+Chanoukah Olivier awesome .. glad it helped!
Very informative video. I'm looking to go back to school for PA & this just put the biggest smile on my face. Keep striving and doing what you love. Great video!!!!
+Naturally Covered aww thank you .. good luck to you!
I'm looking into being a PA and this video was so helpful and informative. Thanks for sharing your experience :)
thanks .. happy it helped!
She's my favorite :) thanks you for taking the time to do this and answer emails!
+Nakia Lewis np dear and thank you for the support!
Thank you for this video I went through the same thing trying to decide between MD or PA and I ultimately decided PA just because my life is in a different place now and I have shadowed a PA and her work like is something that agrees with me and my personality. I recently completed a CNA course to receive my patient care hours so I'm glad you reassured my plans. Thanks again for taking the time to do this it was very informative!
+erin Washington glad it was helpful!
I am currently in a CMA program. It is my hope that I will be able to become a PA in the long run!
I love you girl!! You helped me and I love that you are so humble! Thank you!!!
Omg and you were a rad tech! My face lit up when you said that because I was wanting to become a rad tech and then further my education and become a PA
Thanks for this video. I'm more motivated now and will continue to push for this!
Thank you so much for this video! I feel so much better with my decision to pursue PA vs MD.
Thank you so much for making this video it was so informative! I could really tell you love your profession. ironically UNC Chapel Hill just created a PA program and their first class will matriculate in January 2016. so many new programs are being created to fill the demand. I'm in my 2nd to last semester at community college. next fall I'm transferring to Spelman to finish my Bachelors. I also studying for my EMT certification. this video definetly helped to motivate me and assure me that this is the right path for me
+Meera436 ugh 9 years too late, lol! Happy to hear the video helped!
Just got into PA school! WOOOO. Can't wait :)
you pierced my soul when you said you had kids and husband. awww maan. lucky guy btw great video
thank you so much for this video. you have helped me very much by being really informative about the course. I will be applying later on this year. wish you the best for your future :)
I really love this video. I'm in college and I'm thinking of becoming a PA.
yay! good luck with your studies!
I just saw this video and my journey is very similar! I am applying to PA schools now as a respiratory therapist. I am 3 years out of undergrad and I hope it looks good to PA schools!
+Ariel Rhea i'm sure it does! good luck!
Best video ever! How did you go from UNC to Duke? Did you have scholarships? SAT scores? What was your GPA ? How did you gets those good grades ? Did you have a tutor ? What study aids did you use ? What help did you have? Did you have any volunteer experience?
Also while in undergrad school did you work? If so full time or part time ? Did you stay at home with family or lived alone?
Sorry for so many questions but I ask all these questions because I’m seeking motivation. I will be coming from a very poor background and I’m afraid of not having enough money for something or not being smart enough which is because I again didn’t have enough money for a tutor or study aid or even the opportunity to not work and just focus on school.
But I really appreciate this video.
omg now I feel SUPER old LoL I just turned 30 and I'm going back.
But I agree with you, med school residents make so little money. The pay is going up depending on the specialty. Most made $25-30k. Now surgical residents make $40-50k sometimes $60k.
I'm still on the fence between PA or Med school
my best advice is do what your heart says ... i think if my heart was into I would've gone to med school but my i just didn't have the will. And you certainly have to have to the will to go through that kind of committment
I'm in high school and got accepted into a technical institute where I will be taking the health professions course. This was a very helpful video as I am very interested in becoming a PA!
awesome, and good luck!
Wow this video definitely helped out a lot. I’m a senior biology major but will be graduating next May. I recently got my phlebotomy certification to gain more experience in the healthcare field as well as getting patient care hours. Even though i won’t be applying until next year I’m kind of freaking out about the interview. Could you do a video on preparing for the pa interviews and what kinds of questions were asked?
I'm a medical assistant student right now after I graduate I want to go back to be a RN or PA don't know which one lol
Angel Cody I'm a MA in dermatology and am interested in becoming a PA but I must 1st obtain my bachelors degree it's going to be a progress but I'm definitely getting it started. I'm 34 and thought I was too old however after much research I've realized that's the perfect age!! Good luck to you whatever you decide👍🏾
nutta butta thanks :) and good luck with your journey enjoy
IPHLO,LLC w/Dr.O the PA Pro thanks for the advice :)
I am finishing up my bach. degree at my university at 25 years old! don't feel bad about age. If you have a high passion or interest for something there is never a deadline for that. Good luck on your journey!
Good video!
Thank you for making and sharing your experience with us.
Lianne I am so proud of you and I am so glad I know you.
+CrystalsCurls awww Crystal thank you! I'm gonna miss you :)
+chronicurls Im gonna miss you too
Excellent video. Very informative and well spoken. Encouraging.
what kind of things did you do when you were a surgical PA? I am debating on being a PA or not.. I wanted to be and still do but I wanted to do surgical but we apparently don't get to do much really the surgeon is the only one who does a lot of things. Then I figured if i worked in any other department I feel as though patients will be like, " where is the doctor you're not a doctor." I am currently a patient care tech and the patients can be so picky about who sees them and always want THE DOCTOR. And on the other hand, I really was thinking about pathologist assistant, doing autopsies looking at tissue samples and etc because i really love those things.
My cna class was 3 weeks. Like 1k or less too. Also did EMT. That was 3-4 months.
Omg super encouraging, even though this was three years ago, thank you!! I just wanted to ask how old were you when you started your family?
This really helped a lot to better understand this position.
+mony19831 awesome glad it helped!
I would like to know, like after prerequisites and you go to a PA school for that extra two years, is everything focused on what a PA will do and practice in settings of that work field and prepare you for the exam? Like what are you doing in that two years? And so you just need to have a bachelors in something and have experience in patient care to apply to a PA school?
Great advice! This seriously helped me a ton. Thank you!!
+JustmeKasie thanks for watching!
Thank you so much for this! I thought I had to get a RN degree before, I have my CNA and I'm getting my hours in while getting my Bachelors in health science.
You are a rockstar! I am currently about to graduate with my associates degree with a 2.5 GPA, I have taken my Anatomy and microbiology classes. I haven't taken any Chem or statistics classes and I want to start fresh with a new GPA when I transfer for my Bachelors degree. I have been a CNA for 1.5 years now with experience in Bariatrics Med/Surg. I admire Surgeons, Physicians and PA's. I noticed that PA's seemed to be more relaxed at work. You encourage me to ask one of the Surgeons to shadow them. If you don't mind me asking, some Physicians have short fuses. Does power struggle ever become an issue between MD's and PA's? Do PA's get mistreated by Physicians because of the obligation to perform at their request? I ask because being a CNA at a hospital, I have little to no control and Nurses take advantage because of my title. No one likes to be pushed around.
+michelle g. There is no "struggle" of power per se, but as a PA you have to be able to deal with criticism, constructive and otherwise, and take orders. There have been times where I didn't agree or maybe didn't understand what it was the doc wanted me to do, so i just ask for clarification. If a person is not in a good physician-PA relationship then they need to look for another job. The relationship should be respectful on both ends. I think for any job where you are the employee and not the "boss" you should ask upfront "what are your expectations" and then ask for feedback on a regular basis to make sure everyone is on the same job and communication is clear.
+chronicurls you're right. Thank you. I will take your advice and ask to Shadow a PA.
Going to get my Bachelor's in Radiological Sciences and apply for PA school. I'm a photographer so I'm an imaging expert and interested in the technology
What made you choose to become an pA as opposed to an NP?
Hi! Ihave a bachelors degree in fine art and one year finished in a masters program for fine art but I decided I'd rather work in health care (i originally wanted to be a professor). I'm a pca and cover the lpns shifts and feel in love with working with and helping people but I need more responsobility and want to learn way more so I'm thinking about going to pa school. My favorite thing was wound care tho are there pa's at wound clinics?
CNA is a 2 week thing haha.
Love the vid. 😊😊
your video gives me so much hope in this upcoming cycle. .. Im so happy i came across your page.. new sub =]
thank you so much and good luck!
Thank you for sharing! Your video was the first thing that popped up when I typed "becoming a PA." Ironically, I received my degree in Radiologic Sciences, so, I'm very interested in watching more of your videos. Question: Were you able to work at all while in the program?
my PA program did not allow me to work, as do a lot of programs. It's a very rigorous 2 years.
Congrats I’m on that ride right now wish me luck
I’m a Respiratory therapist for about 7 years and I’m thinking about going to PA school.
What was your gpa graduating from Chaple-hill?
Never mind you answer that. But I guess I’m wondering what did Duke say they like misted about your application?
Thank you so much for all of the information I do have alot of questions and I'm working on my prerequisites now I'm going to be a clinical care tech is that considered the patient care hours that you were talking about
+Ashley-Nicole Camacho I believe that should count as long as the job involves direct patient care. Good Luck!
Hi there, I just graduated a bachelor program in "medical illustration" (accredited) and I'm up in the air about which path to go down next. Either an accelerated RN degree, or a quick LPN/CNA program to get hours to apply to a PA program. PA is really the route I want, however I'm concerned because I can't afford to live on dirt pay for a few years just to see if I can get into a PA program. Would they even consider me with a obscure Medical illustration degree? Do you have any advice?
Very helpful video. Do you think a parent with kids prior to applying to a PA program will be able to do the PA program successfully?
Yes ... just have a good support system. it's a busy two years but well worth it! I had some class mates with kids and they did great!
Do you complete all your requisites in college for the bachelor's degree before applying to a PA program? Also, how much did you make when you first started out?
+Lidallie No i needed to take some classes after I graduated to fulfill all of the requirements. I made around 70K.
How do I go from being a CNA to a Physician Assistant . I want to do it What’s the first step.everyone tells me it’s hard it’s gonna take long. but I want to do it to better myself and do something I will love.
I'm going to a vocational school for medical assistant, and I was wondering if this a good starting path to become a physician assistant?
I have a B's and Ms in biological sciences I have lab experience I recently have decided to pursue a PA career. I'm trying to figure out how to get the patient contact hours. I think you mentioned laboratory science could give you clinical hours? is there a way of using my experience as hour? I also have taken care of my parents who became disabled for about 15 years I wonder if that could be used??
Hi! First off I would like to say I love this video! It was super informative and gave me a more clear idea of what it is to be a PA. Second, I will be starting college this fall and I'm struggling to figure out exactly what I want to do/ am not completely familiar with how things work exactly sorry if this question doesn't make much sense. But in your opinion would it make sense to complete a CNA program after completing my bachelors in order to complete hours before PA school? Thank you!
yes it makes sense! Go for it!
What were some of the activities you did for extracurricular and to gain experience? Thank you for the info.
UNC and Duke, hope you have a house divided license plate cover on your car lol. I have a question about the profession.
How much bedside time do you spend with a patient When I was doing my CNA clinicals I probably saw the doctor on the floor for about an hour (I was also on a rehab floor so there were PT, OT and speech therapist more). With my background (EMT and some emergency room) I hope to do Critical care, ER or trauma surgical or a mixture. I really like interacting with patients and bedside time is important to me. From my experience I see nurses do a lot more for the patient and the doctor or PA somewhere in the background giving orders. Again, my experience is limited and I would love to hear more about your experience as a PA with several years of experience under your belt.
+Nico I've been fortunate to have some jobs where do I do get to spend (a little bit) more time with patients. In my current job (urgent care), my schedule and the doc's schedule is laid out the same ... 15 minutes for a patient, that includes having their vitals taken by the MA, me seeing them, coming up with a plan, writing their note, prescriptions, etc. Not a lot of time ... but if it's a slow day or if the patient's case is more complex then yes, I will spend the extra time with them. When I was doing ortho, my time was a still a little limited but again more than the surgeon's schedule (I would round early in the morning before clinic/surgery and in between cases). Sounds like the majority of specialities you are interested in are hospital based so your experience may be a little different, especially with Critical Care or trauma surg, but i feel like with either of those the patient volume will be high and that increases the likelihood your time will be short.
What classes did you most struggle in ,in PA school and why. Thank you
I really enjoyed watching your video! This couldn't be any more helpful
yep summer classes count too!
+chronicurls i want to become a PA but can you become a PA for a dermatologist ??
Do you think that the clinical rotation hours I obtained while enrolled in a Radiation Therapy program would count towards Direct Patient Care hours? I was in direct contact with patients 3-4 days/week; 7 hrs/ day for 2 yrs. Just wondering since those clinical hours were obtained as a student and not obtained as a paid employee.
It depends on your program ... at the time Duke required those to be non-student, non-volunteer based hours so check with the programs you are wanting to apply to.
Great video! I'm starting PA school in May, any tips on how to prepare?
+curlybyna2ure rest and relax :)
Do you get terrified of some cases like rare cases like I have a phobia of tiny holes or clusters of circles together do you see like some gross cases like that
they say they have a bridge program to be a DO. would you consider doing it?
Greetings❤️! I love your channel..I am 32 with an associates in criminal justice. However, I have been working in the medical field for over five years and I befriended several PA’s after working with them.I really am considering a career in PA. I’ve thought of getting an undergrad in social work or neuroscience then pursue PA school. Will my healthcare experience as an Administrative Assistant count or should I just wait when I’m closer to PA school to get direct patient experience? The closest direct care experience I’ve had is rounding with the Nephrologist to interpret for patients.I’m stuck between starting my direct patient experience now or focus on finishing my undergrad?
Thanks! I would focus on undergrad first. Typically your patient care hours must be with direct patient contact. Also, check with the schools that you want to apply to for their “definition” of patient care hours. Hope this helps!
Do you get to personally know a patient sometimes? I'm currently a freshman in college and I'll be talking to my adviser next semester to figure out how to get started on this path! The competitiveness does scare me I admit. I'm not sure how long it will take me to get into PA school so I have to take into consideration what major I should pick to fall back on in case PA school doesn't work out right away. Thanks for your video! It was really informative :)
+Zheng Pan getting to know the patient just kind of depends on the job. Like for instance when I was doing ortho I would see the same patient during pre-op/post-up visits and sometimes be there for their surgery so I got to know a few. Here in urgent care, it's a rare occasion that I see the same person twice (unless I have them come back for follow up) but that's just the nature of the business.
+chronicurls Hi thanks so much for replying! :) That makes sense what you said. I think I am going to stick on the road to PA. I did consider becoming a doctor but I don't like how many years that takes and how the career takes over your life if you become a doctor. I want a balance between my work life and my job. Has PA been a rewarding career for you so far?
+Zheng Pan i love being a PA, couldn't see myself doing anything else :)
This video is awesome. I am finishing up my last year of nursing school and have finally decided that I was meant for medicine as a PA and not nursing. My question is if you decide you no longer want to practice clinically years later, what are some other options? Can you teach or lecture instead? thanks (:
+Khalillah King yes teaching is an option, unsure if there is much else besides doing research as well
How much did you start off making after PA school?
are the interviews long ?
Hey, how did you manage when you had your kids? Did you work part-time? Full-time? Maternity leave?
How intense was the first year of PA school? I think that's what I'm worried about the most. Do you have any tips to prepare for PA school?
It was pretty intense but as Omar said definitely doable. In terms of tips ... honestly, I was told to rest as much as possible and that's exactly what I did lol. Just spend some extra time with family and friends and relax. If you have time you can study up on some physiology but don't overdo it. Good luck!