In the beginning...

Let me give a little background on where my PA path started. I received my Bachelors degree in Healthcare Administration from the University of Phoenix in August of 2010. I worked for University of Phoenix while obtaining my bachelors degree (great advice for those who don't want to have to pay much for school).

I started volunteering at Hospice of the Valley (HOV). Hospice is an amazing opportunity to get 'hands on' patient care experience because they will let you do a lot for patients with the nurses and CNA's. You also get great experiences that becomes material to fill up your application and even your personal statement (Narrative).  I received training from HOV on how to work with patients who are nearing death. (This is important because death and dying is good exposure to have, it is unique and will help applicants stand out). I was given  a lot of flexibility with my schedule, and was able to volunteer for 2 hours every Saturday in a Palliative Care Unit about 7 miles from my house.

Palliative Care Unit for Hospice

While approaching graduation I put myself out there for a job in the healthcare field, I am talking applications everywhere, even if I didn't meet the qualifications.I ended up sending out maybe 30 applications for a job in healthcare on craigslist (a lot of up-to-date jobs on there) and heard back from maybe 3 or so.

I can't even remember sending out my application/resume for this one call I got, however they were interested and said they would provide training and asked me in for an interview. After 2 interviews I ended up getting the job as a Clinical Research Coordinator at HOPE Research Institute.  

This job ended up being the best experience for applying to PA school. This is the job I currently have and it is still a lot of fun. I have been there now for just under 2 years. As part of my 'on-the-job training' I was taught how to take vitals, draw blood, take ECG's and obtain medical history from patients. I really love being a part of clinical research, it gives an inside look into how drugs and treatments are tested through pharmaceutical companies.I also get the chance to work with underprivileged patients who don't have insurance but qualify for a clinical trial to get treatment and reimbursement. Plus I get to see patients everyday and get some really great direct patient care hours.

 

I also found this short video regarding where to start when looking into becoming a PA and getting healthcare experience.