Path to becoming a PA

[cameronWA]

---

Members do not see this ad.

Hi there, currently I am doing research on different medical careers, namely becoming a DPT, PA, possibly PTA and a radiologic technologist.

I really want to become a PT, but it seems the standard doctorate now will put me far in debt, and the salary compared to the schooling isn't worth it as much.. but I am still debating it. I am starting college soon and am still young.. so I just want to hear some advice for this route, any is appreciated.

Also my second route was applying to PTA school, going, and then working as a PTA for a year or two, then apply to a PA school (the PTA work would be my medical experience) and attend to become a PA. Any comments/suggestions greatly appreciated.

Lastly, (Ha sorry, I got a few pathways I know.. ) is to apply for a RT school and attend to become a RT.. and work at nearby hospital.

I am willing to go to school, and work off debt, but I do need to be making 45-50k minimum for work, because i'm looking to be supporting a family down the road, and want a steady job with a good outlook. As I said before, getting to work sooner would be nice, but I am not phased by more schooling.

Any feedback is appreciated! Thanks, and if you have any other career suggestions I will gladly look into it and research it. 😀

 

[cameronWA]

71 views and no reply? Haha you don't need to have alot of experience, just looking for honest opinions.

 

[ARAI]

71 views and no reply? Haha you don't need to have alot of experience, just looking for honest opinions.

Honestly, go for the one you love. Don't chase the money; I tried that as did many of the people I used to worked with and I ended up working late hours in a job I hated and all the money in the world wasn't worth it. You're better off working long-hours at a job you love.

Other than that, starting with a PTA sounds like the safe option.

 

[cameronWA]

Thanks. I narrowed it down to either going to my local community college to get my AS, then tranfer to a 4-year for my BS (to save what money I can on tuition cost), and then apply for PT school. That or just going to the local PTA program (in Poulsbo, WA) and work as a PTA while earning bachelor's.

Thanks for the advice 🙂