Just graduated trying to become a PA

[hreinhar]

Dear Paul,

I just graduated college with an Exercise and Sports Sciences degree and a biology minor. I broke my foot a month and a half ago so I will be unable to shadow anyone for another month. I have around a science pre-req 2.85GPA and a cummulative 3.4GPA. I talked to a couple schools and I will be going to a question and answer session in early February, but I need help now. I want to better my application for PA school which is due on September 1st, but I have not taken the GRE yet, or had any shadowing experience. I was wondering if you think I should spend this time studying to become an EMT or something like that where I can gain experience and get paid, or should I send out emails to physician assistants looking for shadowing now, or should I study for the GRE. I am really confused on where to begin, I just graduated and I feel like physician assistant is right for me through all my experience with my own injuries, but I just do not know where to begin. Please let me know what you think.

Thanks,

Hunter

[hreinhar]

I also need to take, and retake a couple courses to better my application as well.

[PaulK]

It's pretty unusual to get into PA school right out of college. Why not slow things down a little to make certain 1) you are able to get in, and 2) you are ready for it when you do?

I suggest you take the classes you are lacking while applying for and hopefully working some type of health care job. Once you have your classes done, study for and take the GRE, while you continue to work in a health care job. Then apply.