Undergraduate education: Ferris State University
Overall GPA: 3.5
Science GPA: 3.4
GRE: 318
PA-CAT: Did not take
Total PCE hours: 2500, CNA, PT tech, and MA for a plastic surgeon
Total HCE hours: 200, Pediatric Unit Volunteer (Candy striper!)
Shadowing hours: 20 – Shadowed Ortho PAs during downtime at work
Volunteer hours: 200, a variety of college and personal involvements throughout my college career
How many times did you apply?: 3
Age: 26
Gender: Female
Why PA? I chose PA after shadowing various positions in the medical field. I saw how PAs were able to bridge the gap between patients and providers. They bring well-rounded care to those who need it. I wanted to have a career that allowed me to provide comprehensive care, while forming trusting relationships with my patients.
How many programs did you apply to? 8, then 5, then 4
How many programs did you interview with and what were the outcomes? 3, two waitlist, one acceptance
Where will you be attending? University of Michigan – Flint (First Cohort!)
Anything you found interesting about interviews? How quickly your mind goes blank! It’s like you get in there and you’ve never done anything in your life! Preparation (and maybe a little reminder note) is key!
Were there any helpful resources (books, websites, webinars, etc) you used to get through prerequisites courses, the application or interview process? I used the Personal Statement email process and found that helpful to keep me on track.
Any advice for other pre-PA students? Keep going. When I had my second round of rejections, I was so close to giving up on PA school. I told myself I’d have one more chance because this was something that I wanted so badly and it paid off. I’m succeeding in PA school and have fallen more in love with the career. If it’s something you really want to do, go out and make it happen!
Where can we find you? (Instagram, TikTok, Website, etc) – Insta: @thatemmilygirl
