- Joined
- Aug 9, 2002
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Hey everyone! I'm new to this website and discussion forum but I'm excited to have found it. I am currently at a decision point of deciding whether to pursue a career as a PA or an MD/DO. For a little background information I am a '01 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh with a dual degree in Psychology and Business. I began college premed and was one of the unfortunates who was 'weeded out' as a freshman. Now looking back I know that I didn't put forth the effort that such classes as freshman bio, chem and calc demands of you as a freshman. Once I graduated I pursued a career in child psych thinking I would find a job similar to my first desired career (pediatrician.) Upon beginning my job as a psychiatric care specialist in an amazing children's hospital I realized that I was much more drawn to what the physicians and nurses were doing than to what our jobs were coming from the psych department. So I went back to school at a local community college and took some science courses (anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, nutrition etc) with the intention of pursing a career in healthcare once again. Well, I did very well in these classes and am currently at the point where I must decide which road to venture down. I have looked into PA schools extensively and have looked into medical schools as well but I'm feeling very lost as to what would be a better suit to my end career goals. (which are to work in a private peds practice) I know that you can specialize as a PA and I could do work under a physician in such a practice but to get to that point in education and training, would it be just as wise to consider medical school? I am confused as to how to make a life decision about careers that are quite similar. I guess I'm looking for any advice that could help me decide which road to take. I appreciate any responses! 🙄