Shadowing??

[greniedgal]

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Hey everyone! I am in the process of applying to PA school for next fall. Although I've done a hell of a lot of research, gotten medical/healthcare experience and thought of all possible routes in medicine before deciding to go full force into PA studies, I would love to spend the next 6 months shadowing a PA. But its not like you can call a hospital and ask to speak with one and then ask if you can follow them around. And I dont know of any personally....
so of you guys out there who did some shadowing (and you guys who havent but have opinions) what would you recommend doing in order to find a possible PA to shadow?
Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much!! 🙂

 

[lalee]

I didn't know any PAs personally, so I just called a PA I had heard good things about and asked to meet with her. She enthusiastically agreed and then gave me names and numbers to other PAs in the area that graduated from the schools I'm applying to. I think most PAs would give an interested student the opportunity to shadow them...if you come across one that seems to be bothered or irritated by the idea, I wouldn't WANT to shadow him/her!

 

[greniedgal]

thanks lalee!!!🙂 🙂

 

[Sarah5428]

You could also try joining the AAPA. The member directory has every PA that is a member and how to contact them. I sent out a bunch of letter to PAs in my area describing myself and what I want. I ended up shadowing 3 PAs.

 

[timerick]

I also joined the AAPA and then did an online search for PA's in my area, then wrote them letters of introduction. Half called me back and offered to have me shadow them. The other half I never heard from .... 🙂

 

[jeffdowjones]

anytime i've asked a pa to shadow, i've only been greeted with enthusiasm. people love to show you what they know. be humble, and ask a lot of questions. sometimes all you need to do is go to a hospital/clinic in your area that has PAs and just ask around. if your experiences are like mine, you'll discover that PAs are happy to let you get a look at what they do-since most of them love it!! good luck-peace jd