Pre-PA
Counseling

Expert guidance tailored to your unique path to PA school. We help you plan, prepare, and pursue your goals with confidence.

PRE-PA COUNSELING

What is A Pre-PA Counseling Review Session

Personalized 30-minute session

Break down your timeline, choose the right programs, and plan your experiences with a coach who understands the process inside and out.

Identifying and answering your main concerns

Get feedback on your application before you submit. We’ll check for red flags, inconsistencies, and opportunities to improve.

Gain confidence knowing you have an actionable plan

We help you evaluate programs based on your stats, goals, and preferences to maximize your chances of getting interviews.

I Need Help With

Low GPA

Struggling with academic stats? We’ll help you strengthen your application and identify programs that align with your GPA.

Reapplying to PA School

Didn’t get in the first time? Let’s evaluate what went wrong and create a stronger, more strategic application this time around.

CASPA Application Review

Make sure your application is polished, complete, and compelling before you hit submit—no detail gets overlooked.

Personal Statement Brainstorming

Feeling stuck? We’ll help you craft a story that stands out by uncovering your unique path and motivation for becoming a PA.

Resume Review

Highlight the right experiences, organize it clearly, and present yourself as a professional and focused candidate.

Supplemental Essay Strategy

Learn how to approach each supplemental prompt with clarity and impact—without repeating your personal statement.

School List Strategizing

We’ll assess your stats, goals, and preferences to help you build a smart, balanced, and strategic list of target programs.

Is the PA Profession a Good Fit for You?

Still exploring your options? Let’s walk through your goals and background to help you decide if this is the right career move.

Non-Traditional Applicants and Considering a Career Change

If you’re coming from a different field or following a unique path, we’ll help you translate your experiences into strengths.

Application Timeline

We’ll build a personalized timeline to help you manage deadlines, prerequisites, and important milestones stress-free.

Our coaches

About Our Coaches

Our team of certified PA-C coaches brings real-world experience, compassionate guidance, and insider knowledge to every session.

Tatjana Velikopoljski

PA-C

NICU and nursery physician assistant passionate about mentoring future PAs with encouragement and constructive guidance.

Madaleine ODonnell

PA-C

Trauma and acute care surgery physician assistant passionate about empowering future PAs with insight and guidance from a recent graduate’s perspective.

Alyssa Jennings

PA-C

Dermatology physician assistant with prior experience in plastic surgery, passionate about helping future PAs craft their stories and build confidence.

Courtney Krause

PA-C

Primary care physician assistant passionate about helping future PAs reflect on their experiences and strengthen their applications.

Sloan Horejsi

PA-C

Dermatology physician assistant passionate about guiding future PAs with supportive and actionable coaching.

Jordan Wolff

PA-C

Critical care physician assistant passionate about helping future PAs build on their strengths while addressing areas for growth.

Madison Frick

PA-C

OBGYN physician assistant passionate about supporting and inspiring future PAs through the application process.

Isabella Bullock

PA-C

Cardiothoracic surgery physician assistant passionate about guiding future PAs with strategic and thoughtful coaching.

Sarah Mills

PA-C

Cardiology physician assistant passionate about mentoring future PAs with thorough and encouraging guidance.

Vincent Nguyen

PA-C

Orthopedic trauma, emergency medicine, urgent care, and interventional radiology physician assistant passionate about guiding future PAs with patient and approachable coaching.

Sam Berk

PA-C

Planned Parenthood, sports medicine, and urology physician assistant passionate about guiding future PAs with straightforward and practical advice.

Riddhi Gandhi

PA-C

Emergency and urgent care physician assistant passionate about helping future PAs maximize their interview potential.

Peter Alfano

PA-C

Primary care physician assistant passionate about mentoring future PAs with honest and supportive guidance.

Ngan Lam

PA-C

Surgical, infectious disease, and PA leadership professional passionate about helping future PAs highlight their strengths and stand out in the application process.

Monica Cheng

PA-C

Neurointerventional radiology, neurosurgery, hematology/oncology, and primary care physician assistant passionate about guiding future PAs with realistic and confidence-building advice.

Meghan Rico

PA-C

Family medicine physician assistant in Vermont passionate about guiding future PAs with constructive and supportive feedback.

Marissa Roberts

PA-C

Pediatrics physician assistant passionate about helping future PAs build confidence and present their strengths effectively.

Lindsay Brown

PA-C

Hospitalist, urology, and infectious disease physician assistant passionate about mentoring future PAs with practical guidance and encouragement.

Lauren Kilburn

PA-C

Family medicine, orthopedic spine surgery, and breast surgical oncology physician assistant passionate about mentoring future PAs with encouragement and practical guidance.

Laura Beth Meschke

PA-C

Hospitalist and inpatient nephrology physician assistant passionate about helping future PAs develop confident and personable interview skills.

Kyra Panni Dunn

PA-C

Hospital medicine and emergency medicine physician assistant passionate about guiding future PAs with practical and supportive advice.

Kristie La Monica

PA-C

Spine PA, ENT PA, and Women’s Health PA and instructor passionate about guiding future PAs with thoughtful and practical advice.

Kathryn Allen

PA-C

Pediatrics and primary/urgent care physician assistant passionate about guiding future PAs with supportive and practical advice.

Julia Bazzini

PA-C

Internal medicine and PM&R physician assistant passionate about helping future PAs present their strengths and personalities confidently.

Jourdyn Koebe

PA-C

Emergency medicine physician assistant passionate about guiding future PAs with positivity and practical advice.

Jill Slonaker

PA-C

Family practice physician assistant with previous experience in hospitalist and urgent care settings, passionate about supporting future PAs through the application process.

Jenna Vogelsang

PA-C

Cardiothoracic surgery physician assistant passionate about supporting and guiding future PAs through the application process.

Jamie Trudell

PA-C

Physician assistant with experience in emergency medicine and outpatient pediatrics, passionate about mentoring future PAs through the application process.

Jacinda Chan

PA-C

Dermatology physician assistant passionate about mentoring and guiding future PAs through the application and interview process.

Hattie Hanson

PA-C

Hospital medicine physician assistant and educator passionate about helping future PAs strengthen their applications and interview skills.

Hanna McKay

PA-C

Primary and urgent care physician assistant passionate about supporting and guiding future PAs with encouragement and practical advice.

Grace Streed

PA-C

Internal medicine physician assistant at Mayo Clinic Hospital, passionate about guiding future PAs with encouragement and practical advice.

Faith Huynh

PA-C

Dermatology physician assistant passionate about encouraging and guiding future PAs through the application and interview process.

Erin Moore

PA-C

Physician assistant passionate about mentoring future PAs and supporting students through the application process.

Deanna Rosenberg

PA-C

Dermatology physician assistant with prior plastic surgery experience, passionate about helping students refine their skills and present their strengths confidently.

Christa M. Fleming

PA-C

Primary and urgent care physician assistant dedicated to supporting Pre-PA students through thoughtful, structured guidance.

Cameron Orme

PA-C

Interventional radiology physician assistant passionate about guiding future PAs through focused, practical mentorship.

Brooke Huggins

PA-C

Physician assistant with experience in emergency medicine and outpatient cardiology, passionate about mentoring future PAs through personalized and encouraging guidance.

Alysha Naran

PA-C

Urology PA who brings supportive guidance, encouragement, and flexibility to every advising session.

Alexandra Cooper

PA-C

Dermatology PA who brings empathy, encouragement, and real-world insight to every coaching session.

Dbora Lee Osorno

PA-C

Aesthetic dermatology PA with a strong foundation in ER shadowing and MA work. Shares her journey as a former PA Platform client turned practicing PA.

Process

Our Process

From uncertainty to action—we guide you every step of the way.

Book Your Session

Choose a time that fits your schedule and fill out a brief intake form to help us understand your background, needs, and goals.

Meet Your Coach

Join a one-on-one virtual session with a certified PA-C coach who will provide tailored advice based on your unique journey.

Review Your Action Plan

Receive a personalized summary of the session with clear, actionable next steps designed to move you forward with confidence.

Move Forward Strategically

Use your plan to take decisive action—whether it's improving your application, refining your personal statement, or finalizing your school list.

Your Journey to PA School Starts Here

You don’t have to navigate this path alone. Whether you’re choosing your first shadowing gig or preparing for your final interview, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—with tools, coaching, and resources created by real PAs who’ve been exactly where you are.

OUR VALUES

Our Values

At The PA Platform, everything we do is rooted in service, education, and empowerment.

Clarity over Confusion

We simplify a complex process so you know exactly what to do.

Experience-Backed Advice

All of our coaches are practicing or licensed PAs who’ve been in your shoes.

Student-First Mentality

Your goals, budget, timeline, and learning style come first.

Clients

Where Our Clients
Have Been Accepted

From coast to coast, our clients have earned seats at top PA programs across the country. Their success is our mission—and proof that the right support makes all the difference.

our case studies

Real Results,
Real Students

See how our services have helped students overcome hurdles and earn their white coats. From low GPAs to last-minute applications, these success stories prove what’s possible with the right support.

From Struggling Statement to Standout Essay

One student came to us feeling stuck, unsure how to write a personal statement that truly reflected her story. Through our essay editing process, she gained clarity and confidence in her message—and it paid off with multiple interview invites.

Of final draft scored “highly compelling” in blind peer review

0 %

More interview invites than the previous application cycle

0 x

Days from first draft to final submission

Low GPA, Big Comeback

Told her GPA was too low, she used Pre-PA Counseling to build a full recovery strategy—including academics, experience, and school selection.

Science GPA increase in under a year

2.8→ 2.8

New PCE hours logged through customized suggestions

Targeted PA programs identified that fit her profile

From Panic to Prepared

This reapplicant overcame major interview anxiety through mock sessions and coaching. She walked into her real interviews with confidence—and came out with offers.

Confidence improvement (self-rated) after 3 sessions

0 %

Acceptance offers (after 0 prior interview invites)

Custom practice scenarios completed

Reapplicant Turned Rockstar

After two rejections, this student worked with us across services—essay, counseling, and interview prep. The result? A complete 180.

Acceptances from 4 schools applied to

Scholarship awarded from a top-ranked PA program

$ 0

CASPA readiness score increase after full-service support

0 %

From Struggling Statement to Standout Essay

Of final draft scored “highly compelling” in blind peer review

0 %

More interview invites than the previous application cycle

0 x

Days from first draft to final submission

Low GPA, Big Comeback

Told her GPA was too low, she used Pre-PA Counseling to build a full recovery strategy—including academics, experience, and school selection.

Science GPA increase in under a year

2.8→ 2.8

New PCE hours logged through customized suggestions

Targeted PA programs identified that fit her profile

From Panic to Prepared

This reapplicant overcame major interview anxiety through mock sessions and coaching. She walked into her real interviews with confidence—and came out with offers.

Confidence improvement (self-rated) after 3 sessions

0 %

Acceptance offers (after 0 prior interview invites)

Custom practice scenarios completed

Reapplicant Turned Rockstar

After two rejections, this student worked with us across services—essay, counseling, and interview prep. The result? A complete 180.

Acceptances from 4 schools applied to

Scholarship awarded from a top-ranked PA program

$ 0

CASPA readiness score increase after full-service support

0 %

our services

The support you need, exactly when you need it.

Whether you’re just starting your PA school journey or gearing up to submit your application, The PA Platform offers proven tools and personalized support to help you succeed.

Essay Review

Work 1-on-1 with our expert team to craft a compelling personal statement that reflects your voice and hits every note admissions committees are looking for.

Mock Interview

We’ll simulate your real interview and give constructive feedback to help you feel calm, confident, and in control—no matter what questions come your way.

Pre-PA Academy

Pre-PA Academy is a group coaching program. It brings together a community of pre-PA students, regular office hours for addressing your questions, and a structured, step-by-step approach to guide you through every stage of the application process.

Pre-PA Counseling

Get matched with a coach who understands the process—and your goals. We’ll walk through strategy, school selection, timelines, and anything else you’re stressing about.

Essay Review

Work 1-on-1 with our expert team to craft a compelling personal statement that reflects your voice and hits every note admissions committees are looking for.

Mock Interview

We’ll simulate your real interview and give constructive feedback to help you feel calm, confident, and in control—no matter what questions come your way.

Pre-PA Academy

Testimonials

Hear From Our Students

Real stories from future PAs who turned confusion into clarity — and got results that changed their careers.

“I was overwhelmed with CASPA and felt stuck. The team walked me through the timeline, prerequisites, and even helped pick schools. I submitted confidently and got interviews.”

Cassidy M.

Pre-PA Student, AAPA PA Student of the Year

“After two failed application cycles, I used the essay review and counseling service. Not only did I finally get in — I received a scholarship to one of my top schools.”

Grace P.

Pre-PA Student, Accepted  2023 Cycle

“The PA Platform mock interview was one of the best things I could have done to boost my confidence before my real interviews. I walked in prepared and walked out with an acceptance!”

Hattie S.

Pre-PA Student, now PA-S1  at University of Colorado

Blog

The PA Platform Blog

Explore tips, success stories, and actionable advice to strengthen your PA school application. Whether you’re starting from scratch or prepping for interviews, our blog is here to support you at every stage of the journey.

Pre-PA

Program Spotlight: Georgia Regents University

General

My Week in Review

Pre-PA

Gap Year vs. Starting PA School Immediately?

Start With the Content Students Trust Most

Get expert guidance every step of the way. From podcast episodes and YouTube videos to blog posts and downloadable templates, everything we create is designed to make your Pre-PA journey easier, smarter, and more successful.

Get Support, Strategy, and Success in Group Coaching

Join our Pre-PA Academy and gain access to group coaching sessions designed to guide you through every step of your PA school journey—from planning to acceptance.

FAQs

We’re here to make the PA school journey less confusing. If you’re wondering about something, there’s a good chance someone else asked it too!

What’s the difference between HCE and PCE, and how do I get these hours?

Healthcare Experience (HCE) is more observational or administrative, while Patient Care Experience (PCE) involves hands-on clinical interaction. Common roles include medical assistant, EMT, CNA, or scribe.

Do I need to take the GRE or PA-CAT for PA school?

Some programs still require the GRE, and a few ask for the PA-CAT. Always check individual school requirements—they vary widely!

When should I start writing my personal statement?

Start at least 2–3 months before CASPA opens. This gives you time to reflect, revise, and avoid rushed, last-minute edits.

What should I include in my CASPA application?

You’ll need transcripts, experience logs, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and a list of schools you’re applying to. Mappd helps keep all of this organized.

What if I’ve been rejected from PA school before?

You’re not alone—many successful PAs were reapplicants! Reflect on feedback, strengthen weak areas, and consider using our coaching or mock interview services