All PA Interview Questions

Could you tell me about yourself?

Hi, my name is Elizabeth Marzinsky, I am grateful to be given the opportunity to interview with you all and am excited to share more about myself and get to know the program more. 

I grew up in Voorheesville, New York, a small town about 20 minutes outside of Albany. I grew up with my parents and my one younger sister. We’re only 13 months apart so we’ve always been very close. 

After high school, I attended the University of South Carolina, where I graduated in three years with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, Magna Cum Laude. In college I was a part of Alpha Gamma Delta, Tri Beta, Public Health Society and volunteered at the Gamecock Community Shop. 

The summer after my freshman year, I completed an accelerated Medical Assistant program with St. Peter’s and I began working at Clifton Park Family Practice during my school breaks and I have been working there for over 2 years now. As a medical assistant, I take histories, vital signs, obtain testing and specimen collection, perform EKGs and more.  

In my office I have the opportunity to work with nine different providers across multiple pods, each with their own workflows and expectations, which has taught me to adapt quickly, communicate effectively, and anticipate what my provider and patients need. I’ve also traveled to other family medicine offices in the area when they’ve needed additional support and been able to adapt and fit their needs for the day.

In my free time, I enjoy staying active, traveling, and spending time with my family and friends. 

Why do you want to be a PA?

I first became interested in the PA profession as a teenager when I was a patient seeing a dermatology PA for acne and mole checks. As a teenager, those appointments could feel uncomfortable and sometimes scary, but I remember how comfortable she made me feel. She was able to examine me, listen to my concerns, diagnose, perform procedures, and prescribe treatments.

Throughout college as a Biology major I became more interested in a career in medicine where I could work directly with patients to provide care. The PA profession stood out to me because it combines medical decision-making and hands-on patient care with collaboration— all things I am looking for in a future career. I also value being part of a team where I can continue learning from physicians and other healthcare professionals while building meaningful relationships with my patients.

My experience as a medical assistant has reinforced that decision. Working alongside PAs, I have seen how they listen intentionally, educate patients, diagnose and treat conditions, and actively collaborate with their supervising provider. They have helped shape the provider I hope to become— one who takes time with patients, build meaningful relationships, and shows genuine care every day. My own experiences as a patient has taught me that good patient care goes beyond treating a diagnosis.

Ultimately, I want to become a PA because I want a career where I can combine my passion for medicine with meaningful relationships and direct patient care. I want to be a PA who not only treats patients, but also educates, advocates for, and supports them throughout their care.

Are you aware of what a PA does?

Yes. My understanding of the PA role has grown significantly through my experiences as a patient, medical assistant, and through shadowing PAs in different specialties.

PAs are medical providers who evaluate patients, take medical histories, perform physical examinations, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret diagnostic testing, prescribe medications, provide patient education, and perform procedures depending on their specialty and scope of practice. They also work collaboratively with physicians and other healthcare professionals and can practice across many different areas of medicine.

Through shadowing, I have seen what this looks like in practice. I observed PAs evaluate patients, review imaging and test results, develop treatment plans, perform procedures, and educate patients while also collaborating with physicians when needed. My experience as a medical assistant has reinforced this understanding because I work alongside PAs and have seen how much responsibility they have in caring for patients.

I have also learned that being a PA is about more than the clinical responsibilities. PAs build relationships with patients, communicate through uncertainty, educate patients about their conditions and treatments, and advocate for them when barriers arise. Those aspects of the role are especially meaningful to me because I want to provide hands-on medical care while also making sure my patients feel heard, informed, and supported.

What have you done to prepare for PA school?

I have prepared for PA school through my academics, clinical experience, shadowing, volunteering, and personal experiences as a patient. Academically, I completed my Biological Sciences degree in three years and graduated Magna Cum Laude. My first semester of college was challenging because I was taking 18 credits while adjusting to a large out-of-state university. Earning a C+ in Chemistry made me realize that the study habits that worked in high school were not enough. I learned to seek resources earlier, improve my time management, and adjust my approach when something was not working. The growth from that experience prepared me for the academic demands of graduate education.

Clinically, my experience as a medical assistant has been one of my most important preparations. I have gained hands-on experience with rooming patients, taking vital signs, performing EKGs and point-of-care testing, collecting specimens, and documenting in the EHR. I also work as a float MA, so I regularly adapt to different providers, workflows, and offices. This has taught me how to enter unfamiliar environments, communicate effectively with different members of a healthcare team, and maintain patient-centered care even when the office is busy.

My experiences as a patient and through shadowing have also shaped the provider I hope to become. After having spinal fusion surgery as a teenager, I experienced firsthand how important it is for patients to have providers who explain things clearly and make them feel supported. Shadowing PAs in cardiology, dermatology, and orthopedics then allowed me to see how they apply their medical knowledge while building relationships with patients and collaborating with other providers.

Finally, volunteering at the Gamecock CommUnity Shop taught me how social and financial circumstances can affect health and access to care. Together, these experiences have prepared me not only for the academic rigor of PA school, but also for the responsibility of becoming a compassionate, adaptable, and patient-centered provider.

When did you decide to pursue PA school?

I first became interested in the PA profession as a teenager when I was a patient seeing a dermatology PA for acne treatment and mole checks. Those appointments could sometimes feel uncomfortable or intimidating, but I remember how she always made me feel at ease. She was able to diagnose and treat my concerns, perform procedures, and take the time to listen to me as a patient. Seeing the combination of medical knowledge, hands-on care, and meaningful patient interaction sparked my initial interest in the profession.

However, deciding to pursue PA school was not a sudden decision. As I progressed through college, I intentionally explored the profession further through shadowing and direct patient care experience. Working as a medical assistant at Clifton Park Family Practice allowed me to work closely with PAs and observe how they diagnosed conditions, developed treatment plans, educated patients, and built strong relationships with those they served. Watching their role firsthand helped me appreciate the balance of medicine, teamwork, and patient-centered care that the profession offers.

My shadowing experiences further confirmed my decision. While shadowing a dermatology PA, I observed her go beyond treating a patient's medical condition by helping them navigate an insurance barrier that was preventing access to necessary medication. That experience taught me that patient advocacy is an important part of healthcare and that providers must recognize barriers beyond the diagnosis itself.

I also shadowed an orthopedic PA and observed a difficult conversation with a patient who was considering hip replacement surgery. The PA took the time to answer questions, address concerns, and ensure the patient understood their options without feeling rushed. That interaction reinforced the importance of empathy, communication, and patient education.

By the end of my second year of college, after working as an MA, conducting research on the profession, and shadowing PAs in multiple specialties, I knew that becoming a PA was the right path for me. The profession's emphasis on patient care, collaboration, advocacy, and lifelong learning aligned with both my strengths and the kind of healthcare provider I hope to become.

What is your biggest weakness?

One of my biggest weaknesses is that I can be more reserved in unfamiliar situations. I am naturally more introverted, so speaking up or initiating conversations with people I do not know well does not always come naturally to me. Earlier in high school and college, I sometimes found myself hesitating to speak up because I wanted to make sure I had the right thing to say.

Working as a medical assistant has pushed me outside of that comfort zone, especially because I also work as a float MA and often travel to different offices. When I enter an unfamiliar office, I need to introduce myself, ask staff where supplies are, learn how that office functions, and ask providers how they prefer certain tasks to be done. I have also had to become comfortable asking questions rather than trying to figure everything out on my own. In my home office, I have become more comfortable communicating with patients about their symptoms, history, and concerns and then clearly relaying that information to the provider.

These experiences have taught me that being naturally reserved cannot prevent me from communicating when it affects my ability to do my job or provide good patient care. I am still naturally more introverted, but I have become much more comfortable initiating conversations, asking questions, and speaking up when I need clarification. I know PA school will require me to actively participate, collaborate, and communicate with classmates, faculty, patients, and other healthcare professionals, so continuing to build that confidence is something I want to prioritize.

What is your biggest strength

I would say my biggest strength is my adaptability. I am comfortable learning new environments, adjusting to different expectations, and figuring out how to contribute effectively even when I do not know exactly what to expect.

I have developed this strength particularly through my work as a medical assistant. At my primary family medicine office, I work across multiple pods with nine different providers, each with their own workflows and preferences. I also work as a float MA, so I regularly travel to other offices when they need additional support. When I first started floating, it was intimidating to walk into an unfamiliar office and not know where supplies were, how the office operated, or how each provider preferred things to be done. I learned to ask questions, observe how the team worked, and quickly adjust to their expectations. At the same time, I had to make sure that adapting to a new environment never came at the expense of patient care. Even when the office was busy and patients were experiencing longer wait times, I made an effort to communicate clearly and make patients feel heard.

I have also seen the importance of adaptability outside of healthcare. As a Chapter Captain during college recruitment, a severe thunderstorm unexpectedly required my co-captain and me to change our plans, quickly implement our facility's emergency procedures, and coordinate with leadership while keeping more than 100 people calm and organized.

These experiences have taught me that adaptability is not simply being comfortable with change. It is being willing to learn, ask questions, and remain effective when circumstances are unfamiliar or unexpected. I think that will be especially important in PA school, where I will constantly be learning new material, working with different people, and adjusting to new clinical environments.

What is the biggest challenge facing PAs?

I believe one of the biggest challenges facing PAs is public understanding of the profession. While the PA profession has grown significantly over the years, many patients still do not fully understand the role of a PA or the scope of practice they have within healthcare.

For example, some people hear the term "physician assistant" and assume that PAs simply assist physicians rather than serving as healthcare providers themselves. In reality, PAs are trained to evaluate patients, diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, prescribe medications, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and perform procedures while working collaboratively within a healthcare team.

Because of these misconceptions, an important challenge for PAs is educating patients about their role and helping them feel confident in the care they provide. Building trust is essential in healthcare, and patients may be more comfortable receiving care from a PA once they understand the education, training, and responsibilities associated with the profession.

As a future PA, I would view patient education as an important part of my role. By communicating clearly, demonstrating competence, and building strong relationships with patients, I hope to help increase understanding of the profession while providing high-quality, patient-centered care.

How will being a younger applicant affect your performance in the program?

I don’t think being a younger applicant will negatively affect my performance in the program. Although I may be younger than some of my classmates, I believe my experiences have prepared me to handle the academic and professional demands of PA school.

I completed my undergraduate degree in three years and graduated Magna Cum Laude, which required me to be very intentional with my time and academics. I also took college courses throughout high school, including during the summer, so I have been challenging myself academically for several years. Throughout college, I balanced my coursework with leadership roles, volunteering, shadowing, and other commitments, which taught me how to stay organized and prioritize responsibilities.

Clinically, I have worked as a medical assistant in family medicine for about two years during my college breaks. I have stayed with the same practice, and I have also floated between different areas of the office and other locations when needed. That experience has required me to adapt quickly, communicate with different providers and staff, and become comfortable in unfamiliar environments. I think the fact that I have continued returning to the same practice and am welcomed back each time reflects the trust I have built there.

I have also had significant experience as a patient. Having scoliosis and going through years of specialist appointments, treatments, and ultimately surgery gave me an understanding of what it feels like to navigate the healthcare system from the patient perspective.

So while I may be younger, I don’t think age alone determines readiness. I believe my academic performance, clinical experience, responsibility, and ability to adapt have prepared me to contribute to a PA program and perform at the same level as my classmates.

Can you explain your lower grade/ low HCE or shadowing?

Although some of my grades and patient care hours are below the average of accepted students, they do not fully reflect my preparation for PA school. My greatest academic challenge came during my first semester of college, when I enrolled in 18 credit hours, including chemistry and calculus, while adjusting to life several states away. That semester, I earned a C+ in Principles of Chemistry I and a B in Calculus II, prompting me to reevaluate my study habits and time-management skills. Instead of allowing this setback to define me, I developed more effective study methods and sought additional academic resources. My grades steadily improved, and I graduated Magna Cum Laude after completing my degree in three years

While my patient care hours are below the average, they reflect my accelerated academic path. After freshman year, I completed an accelerated MA program through St. Peter's, earning my Certified Clinical Medical Assistant credential. Since I attended college out of state, I worked as an MA during school breaks, accumulating more than 1,100 hours of direct patient care while balancing coursework, leadership, volunteer service, and shadowing experiences. These experiences have prepared me to thrive in PA school and become a compassionate, resilient PA.

What are your thoughts on the name “physician assistant” and the push to change to “physician associate”?

I understand the reasoning behind the push to change the title from physician assistant to physician associate. Some people feel that the word "assistant" does not accurately reflect the education, training, and responsibilities of PAs, and that it may contribute to misunderstandings about the profession.

Personally, I believe the larger issue is not the title itself but rather the public's understanding of the PA role. Many patients are unaware that PAs evaluate patients, diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, prescribe medications, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and perform procedures while working collaboratively with physicians and other healthcare professionals. Because of this, some patients may mistakenly assume that a PA only assists a physician rather than serving as a provider.

While I understand the arguments in favor of changing the title, I do not think a name change alone will solve the problem of patient education. In fact, it could potentially create additional confusion for patients who are already unfamiliar with the profession. I believe building public understanding will come primarily through patient education, clear communication, and continued demonstration of the high-quality care that PAs provide.

Ultimately, whether the profession is called physician assistant or physician associate, the most important goal is ensuring that patients understand who PAs are, what they do, and feel confident in the care they receive. As a future PA, I would focus on educating patients, building trust, and demonstrating competence through my actions and patient care.

What is the most selfless thing you have done?

Situation:

• Chapter Captain during Panhellenic recruitment → 100+ PNMs + recruitment counselors were outside when a severe thunderstorm developed

• Different chapters had different emergency protocols → my co-captain + I were the only ones familiar with ours

Task:

• Help get everyone safely to shelter while keeping people calm and organized

• Make sure PNMs’ belongings were not left outside after they were moved to safety

Action:

• Co-captain + I divided responsibilities → directed people to shelter and communicated with chapter leadership + recruitment executives

• After everyone was safe, ran through the heavy rain to gather PNMs’ belongings rather than leaving them to retrieve them themselves

Result:

• 100+ people were safely moved to shelter and their belongings were recovered

• Was completely soaked, but knew their safety and comfort mattered more than my own

Reflection:

• Learned selflessness means recognizing what others need and acting without hesitation, even when it is inconvenient

• As a PA → put patients’ needs first, especially when they are vulnerable or unable to advocate for themselves

What is the biggest responsibility you have ever had?

Situation:

• At 16–17, helped care for my grandmother each morning before her aide arrived → medication organization + transport to medical appointments

• Felt responsible for her safety and worried about what could happen if an unexpected situation arose

Task:

• Make sure she was safe and had what she needed while I was responsible for her

• Be prepared to respond appropriately if something went wrong

Action:

• Prepared her important information, including DOB + phone number, so I could provide it if needed

• Became intentional about being attentive to her needs rather than simply reacting when problems arose

Result:

• Successfully supported her day-to-day needs during that period

• Gained confidence in taking on an important caregiving responsibility at a young age

Reflection:

• Learned that responsibility means being prepared, attentive, + reliable, especially when someone depends on you

• As a PA → remember how vulnerable patients can feel when depending on others and strive to make them feel safe and cared for

Describe a time you had to overcome adversity

Situation:

• Diagnosed with scoliosis in fifth grade → years of specialist visits, monitoring, + wearing a back brace 12+ hours/day

• Despite treatment, my scoliosis progressed → eventually required spinal fusion surgery and over a month of recovery

Task:

• Adapt to a major medical challenge while continuing school and extracurricular responsibilities

Action:

• During recovery, maintained my school responsibilities through schoolwork, tutoring sessions, + exams from home

• Focused on what I could control → stayed committed to recovery while gradually returning to my normal activities

Result:

• Successfully recovered from surgery while keeping up with my academic responsibilities

• Developed greater resilience, perseverance, + time-management skills

Reflection:

• Gained firsthand insight into how vulnerable and uncertain patients can feel during major medical experiences

• As a PA → use that perspective to communicate with empathy, provide reassurance, and make patients feel supported throughout their care

What is your biggest regret?

My biggest regret is not volunteering at the gamecock community shop sooner in my college career. I began volunteering during my last semester, and I quickly realized how meaningful the experience was. The gamecock community shop is an on campus food pantry that also has clothing and household items, available to students and faculty of USC. While volunteering I would restock items, go through donations, and check customers of the shop out. What stood out to me most was how much my attitude could affect someone’s experience. I knew that asking for help with basic needs could feel vulnerable, so I made an effort to treat every person with kindness and respect and help create a welcoming environment. I regret not discovering this opportunity earlier because it opened my eyes to challenges within my own college community that I had not fully recognized. The experience also strengthened my understanding of how socioeconomic factors can affect health and well-being. I came to understand that quality patient care extends beyond the clinic, as social and economic factors play a significant role in overall health. These challenges often create barriers to healthcare access, complicating health outcomes when basic needs are unmet.

Describe a disappointing moment from your life

Situation:

• Diagnosed with scoliosis in fifth grade → wore a back brace 12+ hours/day for years + attended frequent specialist appointments

• Hoped treatment would prevent surgery, so I was disappointed when my curvature continued to progress and spinal fusion was recommended

Task:

• Accept an outcome I had worked hard to prevent but ultimately could not control

Action:

• Allowed myself to process the disappointment, then focused on what I could control → trusted my healthcare team through the uncertainty

• After surgery, stayed committed to recovery while completing schoolwork and exams from home

Result:

• Successfully recovered while keeping up with my academic responsibilities

• Developed resilience, time-management skills, + a greater understanding of the patient experience

Reflection:

• Learned that setbacks can become opportunities for growth, even when the outcome is not what you hoped for

• My physician’s compassion and communication showed me the impact providers can have → as a PA, I want to support patients through disappointing or uncertain moments

Tell me about a mistake or critical feedback.

Situation:

• Working as an MA → patient said he was due for an A1c, and a previous note also indicated it was needed

• I assumed the test was due and performed it before the provider saw the patient

Task:

• Recognize and take responsibility for the mistake once the provider clarified the test was not yet due

• Ensure the result and circumstances were accurately communicated to the provider

Action:

• Immediately apologized and took responsibility without making excuses → listened to the provider’s feedback

• Documented the result + timing and changed my process to verify orders, timing, and coverage before testing

Result:

• Provider had accurate documentation of the test result and when it could be correctly entered 

• Prevented the same mistake from recurring by changing my verification process

Reflection:

• Learned that even small assumptions can have consequences in healthcare

• As a PA → prioritize attention to detail, verify information, and accept feedback as an opportunity to improve

A patient is not proficient in English, and you are unfamiliar with their language. How can you assist?

This is a situation I have encountered while working as a medical assistant in family medicine. When I have a patient who is not proficient in English, I first make sure they feel welcomed and respected and ask whether they would like to use the interpreter service available through our office. If they agree, I use the appropriate interpreter service to help ensure we can communicate accurately.

There have also been times when a patient has declined an interpreter because they have a family member or friend who can translate, or because they feel comfortable communicating in English. I respect the patient's preference while recognizing that language barriers can affect the accuracy of medical information and instructions. If an interpreter service is unavailable or does not connect, I would follow the practice's established process for obtaining appropriate language assistance rather than relying on my own limited ability to communicate.

Regardless of the language a patient speaks, I would treat them with the same patience and respect as every other patient. I would also make sure they understand important instructions and provide written materials in an appropriate language when available. My experience has taught me that effective communication is essential to safe patient care, and sometimes providing good care means taking an extra step to make sure a patient truly understands what is being discussed.

What is something difficult you have had to discuss with someone?

Situation:

• Night after spinal fusion surgery → significant pain, parents had gone home, and I needed a pad after getting my period

• Felt vulnerable and embarrassed because I was dependent on hospital staff and concerned about my bedding

Task:

• Advocate for myself and communicate a vulnerable concern to someone I did not know

Action:

• Pressed the call light and honestly explained the situation to my nurse

• Reminded myself that asking for help was part of advocating for my own care, even though the conversation felt uncomfortable

Result:

• Nurse responded kindly and accommodated my needs quickly

• Felt more comfortable after realizing I could voice a sensitive concern without being judged

Reflection:

• Learned that small concerns can feel significant to patients, especially when they are vulnerable or dependent on others

• As a PA → create a judgment-free environment where patients feel comfortable communicating even sensitive concerns

How do you deal with high stress situations? Give an example.

I deal with high-stress situations by taking a moment to pause, stay calm, and focus on the immediate steps that need to be taken rather than becoming overwhelmed by everything happening at once. One example was during Panhellenic recruitment at the University of South Carolina, when I was serving as a Chapter Captain.

During one recruitment event, a severe thunderstorm developed while approximately 100 Potential New Members and recruitment counselors were outside. Everyone was unsure where to go, and each chapter had different emergency procedures. My co-captain and I were the only people who knew our facility’s shelter protocol, so we quickly divided responsibilities, directed everyone to the appropriate shelter, and communicated with chapter leadership and recruitment executives. Because people were looking to us for direction, I knew I needed to remain calm and communicate clearly, even though I was also concerned about the situation.

Once everyone was safely inside, I focused on the next problem: many PNMs had left their belongings outside. My co-captain and I ran through the rain to bring their belongings inside. The experience taught me that in stressful situations, I am most effective when I stay composed, prioritize what needs to happen next, and work with others rather than trying to manage everything myself.

Outside of stressful situations, I also make time to decompress by talking with my family and staying active. I know PA school will be demanding, so I plan to use those same strategies to manage stress while staying focused, organized, and present for my responsibilities.

Tell me about a time you used teamwork to solve a problem.

Situation

• Chapter Captain → jointly managed recruitment facility with co-captain

• Minutes before event → realized a PNM was missing

Task

• Divide responsibilities → one monitored PNM line/order, one managed timing + chapter coordination

• Goal → keep events on schedule + communicate changes clearly

Action

• Communicated with chapter + recruitment counselors → confirmed situation and next steps

• When PNM arrived → coordinated new line order + updated chapter to adjust recruiting order

Result

• Event stayed on schedule → no major delay

• Team adapted quickly → responsibilities stayed organized despite unexpected change

Reflection

• Teamwork requires clear communication, trust, + flexibility when plans change

• As a PA → collaborate with classmates, physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to solve problems while keeping patient care on track

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years, I see myself as a practicing physician assistant who has graduated from PA school and found a specialty and practice setting that I am truly passionate about. I hope to be working in a collaborative environment where I can build strong relationships with my colleagues, support my supervising physician, and provide high-quality care to my patients. One of my biggest goals is to become a trusted member of my community by developing meaningful, long-term relationships with the patients I serve and making a positive impact on their health and well-being.

Beyond my professional goals, I also hope to have established a healthy work-life balance. I want to remain active, spend quality time with my family and friends, and continue growing both personally and professionally. Ultimately, I see myself building a fulfilling career that allows me to make a difference in my patients’ lives while maintaining the balance and well-being necessary to provide compassionate, effective patient care every day.

Tell me about a leadership role you have held.

One leadership role I held was serving as a Chapter Captain during the University of South Carolina Panhellenic recruitment process. In this role, I was responsible for helping coordinate recruitment operations at an assigned chapter and supporting over 2,500 potential new members as they moved through recruitment. The position required long days, strong organization, and effective communication with both chapter leadership and recruitment executives.

One experience that stands out occurred when a severe thunderstorm developed during recruitment. At the time, around 100 potential new members and recruitment counselors were outside, and many people were unsure where to go. Different chapters had different emergency procedures, and my co-captain and I were the only individuals who knew our chapter's specific protocol. We quickly divided responsibilities, directed people to the appropriate shelter locations, communicated with chapter leadership and recruitment executives, and helped keep everyone calm during a stressful situation.

In addition, many of the potential new members had left their belongings outside. Once everyone was safely inside, my co-captain and I ran through the rain to bring their belongings indoors so they would be protected from the storm. While it was a small action, it demonstrated our commitment to supporting others beyond our assigned responsibilities.

This experience taught me that leadership is about stepping up when others need direction, remaining calm when plans change unexpectedly, and communicating clearly under pressure. It also reinforced the importance of teamwork, delegation, and being willing to do whatever is needed to support the people around you.

What advantages or disadvantages would you have as a younger applicant?

Advantages

• Took college courses while in high school

• Graduated magna cum laude in 3 years

• Balanced academics, organizations, shadowing, volunteering, and work

• Worked as a Medical Assistant for 2 years → reliability and strong work ethic

• Returned to the same practice during school breaks

• Floated between departments and office locations as needed

• Comfortable using technology and Epic EMR

• Personal experience with scoliosis, specialists, and treatments

• Developed empathy and understanding of the patient perspective

Disadvantage

• Fewer healthcare hours than some older applicants (~1,100 at application)

• C+ in Principles of Chemistry 1, B in Calculus 2

How I Address It

• Sought meaningful responsibilities and growth opportunities

• Depth and quality of experiences prepared me well for PA school

• Demonstrated maturity, commitment, and readiness despite younger age

What is your life saying?

My life saying is “everything happens for a reason.” Throughout my life, I have found that some of my greatest opportunities and periods of growth have come from situations that initially felt disappointing or difficult.

One example was when I was applying to colleges. At the time, I had a dream school that I was hoping to attend, but I was not accepted. While I was disappointed, I had to move forward and consider the schools that had accepted me. Ultimately, I chose the University of South Carolina, and looking back, it was one of the best things that could have happened to me. There, I found incredible professors and mentors, built lasting friendships, gained valuable leadership and volunteer experiences, and grew both personally and academically. If I had attended my original dream school, my path would have looked completely different, and I may not be where I am today.

Another example is my experience with scoliosis. Throughout my childhood and adolescence, I spent significant time seeing specialists, undergoing treatments, and ultimately having spinal fusion surgery. At the time, these experiences were challenging, but they also gave me a unique perspective as a patient. They taught me resilience, helped me develop empathy for others navigating health challenges, and sparked my interest in healthcare. Those experiences ultimately played an important role in motivating me to pursue a career as a physician assistant.

Because of experiences like these, I have learned to trust the process, remain optimistic during difficult situations, and view setbacks as opportunities for growth. While I may not always understand why something happens in the moment, I have found that those experiences often lead to valuable lessons and opportunities that help shape who I am today.

How do you plan to use your PA/ medical education?

I plan to use my PA education to provide patient-centered care and help patients navigate their healthcare with confidence and understanding. I believe that patients are the most important members of the healthcare team, and my goal is to use the knowledge and skills I gain in PA school to empower them to make informed decisions about their health.

One aspect of the PA profession that I value is the broad medical education it provides. Although I may ultimately practice in a specific specialty, I believe that every area of medicine I learn will help me better understand the full picture of a patient's health. Whether it is understanding how medications interact, recognizing how one condition may affect another, or appreciating the challenges patients face when seeing multiple specialists, this knowledge will allow me to provide more comprehensive and effective care.

I also plan to use my education to build strong relationships with patients and serve as an advocate for their well-being. My goal is to continuously learn throughout my career and apply that knowledge to improve patient outcomes. Ultimately, I want to use my PA education to become a compassionate, knowledgeable, and effective provider who makes a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

 What non-science undergraduate course will benefit you most in PA school?

Situation

• Public Speaking → developed clear, confident communication + effective presentation skills

• Learned to organize information, contribute to discussions, + build upon others’ ideas

Task

• Apply communication skills beyond the classroom → communicate effectively with patients + healthcare team

• Develop confidence → especially when asking questions, listening, + presenting information

Action

• As an MA → maintain eye contact, open body language, + active listening while rooming patients

• Use open-ended + follow-up questions → understand concerns and communicate important information to providers

Result

• Patients feel more comfortable → heard and understood during interactions

• Stronger communication skills → more confident working with patients + healthcare team

Reflection

• Public Speaking taught me that effective communication is more than just speaking clearly → it’s listening + adapting to the person you’re communicating with

• As a PA → these skills will help with in-depth patient interviews, explaining complex medical information clearly, and collaborating with the healthcare team

What is the most stressful part of your current job?

Situation

• Family medicine practice → one of busiest in the network, frequent staffing shortages

• Short-staffed days → additional rooming, testing, clinical tasks, + coverage for absent coworkers

Task

• Balance multiple responsibilities → keep patients moving while maintaining quality care

• Adapt to changing demands → identify what needs attention and reprioritize throughout the day

Action

• Review schedules + pre-visit plans proactively → catch scheduling/appointment errors before they create delays

• Float across office + take on additional tasks → communicate with team, prioritize, stay organized

Result

• Able to support coworkers + keep patient care on track despite increased workload

• Developed stronger time management, adaptability, + teamwork skills

Reflection

• Most stressful part → constantly adjusting priorities when resources are limited

• As a PA → stay calm under pressure, communicate with the healthcare team, and keep patient care the priority even during busy periods

What is the most important factor between a PA and supervising physician?

I believe the most important factor between a PA and supervising physician is trust and mutual respect. The PA-physician relationship is built on collaboration, and both individuals need to have confidence in each other's knowledge, clinical judgment, and commitment to providing high-quality patient care.

As a PA, it is important to know when to practice independently within your scope and when to seek guidance from your supervising physician. This requires trusting that the physician will provide support and mentorship when needed, while also respecting their experience and expertise. At the same time, the supervising physician must trust that the PA is making thoughtful clinical decisions, recognizing limitations, and providing safe, effective care.

Strong communication is also a key part of building that trust. Whether discussing a complex patient case, asking for input on a treatment plan, or collaborating on patient management, both providers must feel comfortable communicating openly and professionally.

Ultimately, when trust, respect, and communication are present, the PA and supervising physician can work together effectively as a team, which leads to better patient care and improved outcomes.

Do you think your PCE job is limited in the hands-on portion compared to other jobs (nurse, emt, etc.)?

I do not view my patient care experience as limited compared to other healthcare roles, but rather as different in scope and focus. Every healthcare position offers unique experiences and contributes to patient care in different ways. As a Medical Assistant in an outpatient family medicine setting, my responsibilities are different from those of a nurse working in a hospital or an EMT responding to emergencies, but they are still highly valuable in preparing me for a career as a PA.

In my role, I collect vital signs, perform point-of-care testing, obtain EKGs, conduct A1C testing, document patient information, and communicate important findings to providers. The information I gather directly contributes to clinical decision-making and helps guide patient care. I also spend a significant amount of time interacting with patients, obtaining histories, addressing concerns, and helping patients feel comfortable during their visits.

Additionally, working in family medicine has exposed me to a wide variety of conditions, patient populations, and preventive care needs. I have developed strong communication skills, learned how to build rapport with patients, and gained insight into managing chronic diseases and coordinating care over time.

While I may not perform certain procedures that are common in other healthcare roles, I believe my experience has provided me with a strong foundation in patient interaction, clinical workflow, teamwork, and outpatient medicine. Rather than comparing experiences, I think each healthcare role offers unique strengths, and I have gained valuable skills that will help me succeed as a PA student and future PA.

Do you think it’s more important to get patients seen or spend time with patients?

I think there has to be a balance between making sure patients are seen in a timely manner and giving each patient the attention they deserve. If a provider focuses too heavily on getting through a certain number of patients, they may miss concerns, fail to explain something thoroughly, or make a patient feel rushed or dismissed.

At the same time, spending an unlimited amount of time with every patient can cause the schedule to fall behind and create long wait times for other patients. As a medical assistant, I’ve come to realize that sometimes patients just need someone to listen to them. When you have the time to do that, it can make a big difference in how supported a patient feels.

Overall, if I had to choose, I would prioritize spending adequate time with the patient because understanding their concerns and making sure they feel heard is essential to good care. However, that doesn’t mean spending an excessive amount of time with every patient. As a PA, part of the responsibility is learning how to efficiently complete the necessary parts of an appointment while still creating space for the patient to ask questions and feel heard.

I think the goal is to be both efficient and intentional, so patients receive the care and attention they need without unnecessarily keeping other patients waiting.

How would you feel in PA school if you were doing poorly in a subject that you excelled in during undergrad?

If I were doing poorly in a subject that I had previously excelled in during undergrad, I would probably feel discouraged initially. However, I would remind myself that PA school is a very different level of education. The volume of information is much greater, the material is more detailed, and there is often a short amount of time to learn it.

For example, I know that if you think there is a lot of anatomy to learn in undergrad, PA school takes that to a completely different level. If I struggled on an exam, I wouldn’t have much time to dwell on being disappointed because there would already be another exam coming up. I would need to focus on what I could change.

I would first look at how I was studying and identify what wasn't working. I would then reach out to the professor or teaching assistants, ask questions, and work with classmates to find different ways of understanding the material. I’ve learned from my undergraduate experience that asking for help and being willing to change my approach can make a significant difference.

I would also remind myself that struggling in one course or on one exam doesn't mean I am incapable of succeeding in PA school. It means I need to adapt. I understand that PA school will be rigorous, and I’m prepared to be challenged. My goal would be to respond to that challenge quickly, learn from it, and keep moving forward.

Tell me something about yourself that I would not know by reading your application.

One thing you probably wouldn’t know from reading my application is that I have actually been to all 50 states. That has become my fun fact since I completed that goal with my family a couple of years ago.

It actually started as an idea from my dad when my sister and I were growing up. He wanted us to experience different parts of the country and meet different people because that was something he didn’t have the opportunity to do growing up. So, a lot of our family vacations became road trips where we would visit different states, historic sites, and landmarks.

Looking back, I’m really grateful that he encouraged us to do that because it taught me to appreciate how different people, communities, and cultures can be. I think that perspective is something I can carry into healthcare as well. As a PA, I’ll meet patients from many different backgrounds, and I want to approach each person with curiosity rather than making assumptions about their experiences or needs.

Now that I’ve been to all 50 states, I definitely want to continue traveling and experiencing new places. It’s also something I hope to do with my own family someday. So, while it may seem like just a fun fact, it’s something that has shaped the way I appreciate new experiences and the people I meet along the way.

Discuss a current medical issue.

• Issue: Healthcare provider shortage + access

• Result: Difficulty getting timely care

• MA experience: Seen this firsthand in family medicine

• Practice: 9 providers + large patient population

• Only some providers accepting new patients

• New-patient appointments → months out

• Some patients travel long distances for care

• Ethical issue: Patients need reasonable access

• But: Providers have capacity + safety limits

• Overcapacity → rushed visits + longer waits

• Can also contribute to burnout + quality concerns

• No simple solution

• Need: Expand workforce + improve underserved access

• Use: Entire healthcare team effectively

• PA connection: PAs can expand access + collaborate

• Goal: Access without sacrificing quality, safety + relationships

Describe a time you have struggled academically, and how you dealt with it.

Situation:

• First semester → moved out of state, adjusted to a large university, + took 18 credit hours with classes of hundreds of students

• Took demanding courses including Chemistry I + Calculus II → earned a C+ and B

Task:

• Adapt to college-level expectations while managing a rigorous course load

• Recognize what was not working and needed to develop more effective study strategies

Action:

• Reflected on my study habits → realized high school strategies were not sufficient and I should have used tutoring + office hours sooner

• Became more proactive in later semesters about seeking help, using resources, + adjusting my approach when struggling

Result:

• Successfully completed my BS in Biological Sciences in 3 years, graduating Magna Cum Laude

• Balanced an accelerated academic path with clinical employment, leadership, + community service

Reflection:

• Learned that setbacks require honest self-reflection and willingness to change

• As a PA → recognize when something is not working, seek help early, and continuously adapt

Give an example of a situation in which you exceeded expectations.

Situation

• MA at family medicine practice → staffing shortages + several newer staff members

• MyChart self-scheduling → occasional errors with wrong visit type or provider

Task

• Scheduling wasn’t my primary responsibility → noticed errors could affect patients + providers

• Goal → prevent avoidable problems before they reached the patient

Action

• Learned how to correct scheduling errors myself → used downtime to review upcoming schedules

• Corrected what I could + flagged remaining issues → communicated with scheduling team instead of waiting

Result

• Helped prevent scheduling problems → smoother workflow + patient experience

• Initiative recognized → earned Employee of the Month

Reflection

• Exceeding expectations → noticing what needs to be done, even when it isn’t specifically assigned to you

• As a PA → take initiative, support the team, and look for ways to prevent problems before they affect patients

Discuss a time you had to resolve a conflict

Situation:

• Group project included a written component + presentation; one member was communicating inconsistently and falling behind

• Deadline approached → concern about having enough time to complete sections and verify accuracy

Task:

• Keep the project on track without allowing frustration or conflict to affect the group

• Ensure the final project was accurate, cohesive, + ready for presentation

Action:

• Communicated what remained, checked in on outstanding sections, + clarified responsibilities

• When work would not be completed in time, stepped in to complete additional sections and reviewed teammates’ work for accuracy

Result:

• Final project was completed on time, accurate, + cohesive for the presentation

• Addressed the issue without creating additional conflict or disrupting the group

Reflection:

• Learned conflict resolution is not about proving someone wrong → focus on communication + shared goals

• As a PA → address concerns respectfully, communicate early, and work toward practical solutions that support the team

What is you favorite animal and why?

My favorite animal is a rabbit. I've always admired how they balance gentleness with resilience. Rabbits are naturally observant and aware of their surroundings, and they rely on adaptability to navigate constantly changing environments. Those qualities resonate with me, especially because I've learned throughout my experiences as a medical assistant that being attentive, flexible, and calm is essential in providing good patient care.

Working in family medicine practice with multiple providers structured into multiple pods with different staff members who have different workflows, so I often had to adapt quickly while still making patients feel comfortable. In addition, I also often floated between different family medicine offices when there were staffing shortages with unknown providers, healthcare teams, layouts, workflows, etc. 

I also appreciate that rabbits aren't the loudest or most attention-seeking animals, as am I in my daily life—they quietly build trust by opening up to people. I think that's similar to the kind of healthcare provider I hope to become. As a future PA, I want patients to feel heard, supported, and cared for through consistent compassion and reliability rather than needing myself to be the center of attention.

Closing thank you before asking faculty questions

First, I want to thank you for the opportunity to interview with you all. I've really enjoyed our conversation and learning more about the program has only increased my interest in _. One question I have for you is…

Can you tell me about a time you had to deal with a difficult patient?

Situation:

• While rooming a patient, asked them to verify their name + DOB in the hallway before entering the provider’s office

• Patient expressed concern that providing this information in the hallway violated HIPAA

Task:

• Address the patient’s privacy concern without becoming defensive

• Complete the necessary identity verification while maintaining trust and professionalism

Action:

• Listened to the concern and calmly explained that identity verification was necessary before bringing them to the provider

• Reassured the patient by explaining the purpose of the process → patient provided the requested information

Result:

• Patient understood why the information was needed and the encounter continued professionally

• Maintained the necessary identification step while allowing the patient to feel heard

Reflection:

• Learned to respond calmly to concerns and explain the reasoning behind clinical processes

• As a PA → encourage patients to voice concerns and address them respectfully without compromising important safety steps

Can you tell me more about something you learned while volunteering?

Situation:

• Volunteered at campus CommUnity Shop → provided free food, clothing, + household items to students/faculty experiencing financial insecurity

• Saw firsthand how unmet basic needs can affect people’s well-being and create barriers to healthcare

Task:

• Help create a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment for individuals seeking support

• Serve people respectfully while recognizing the vulnerability that can come with asking for help

Action:

• Assisted with checkout, organizing donations, + restocking while communicating with visitors empathetically

• Became intentional about making each person feel respected rather than judged for needing assistance

Result:

• Helped create a supportive environment where individuals could access essential resources with dignity

• Developed a deeper understanding of how social and economic circumstances can influence health

Reflection:

• Learned that quality patient care extends beyond what happens inside the clinic

• As a PA → consider patients’ social circumstances and address barriers to care as part of holistic treatment

If you could describe yourself in 3 words, what would it be?

Adaptable 

• Example: in my job as a MA, I float in office with 9 different providers, able to adapt to different provider needs and work well with different clinical staff members → also float to other family med offices and have to fit in/ help

• Taught me to step out of comfort zone and adapt to the needs of others/ changing situations

Positive 

• Example: working as an MA, work to keep a positive/upbeat attitude, recognizing that patients can be in pain/dealing with a lot 

• First clinical staff member → be welcoming, greet them, take time with them to help pts feel comfortable and safe in the office 

Organized 

• Example: enjoy planning things out on calendar and that helps me know when things are coming up and allows me to prepare ahead of time 

• Will helpful in PA school

Can you tell me about a patient encounter that had a significant impact on you and why?

Situation:

• Shadowed Laura Rate, orthopedic PA → observed a patient receive a hip replacement recommendation

• Patient expressed concerns and had questions about surgery/ recovery

Task:

• Observe how the PA navigated a difficult treatment conversation

• Understand how patient education + empathy can support informed decision-making

Action:

• PA explained the procedure clearly, answered questions, and addressed concerns patiently without rushing

• Gave the patient space to ask questions and process the information

Result:

• Saw how creating space for questions can help patients process complex information

• Gained a stronger appreciation for the importance of empathy alongside clinical knowledge

Reflection:

• Connected the experience to my own perspective as a patient → recognized how difficult medical conversations can feel as provider

• As a PA → explain complex information clearly, give patients time to process, and communicate compassionately

Tell me about a stressful or challenging situation you faced in a healthcare setting and how you handled it?

Situation:

• Working as an MA → patient said he was due for an A1c, and a previous note also indicated it was needed

• I assumed the test was due and performed it before the provider saw the patient

Task:

• Recognize and take responsibility for the mistake once the provider clarified the test was not yet due

• Ensure the result and circumstances were accurately communicated to the provider

Action:

• Immediately apologized and took responsibility without making excuses → listened to the provider’s feedback

• Documented the result + timing and changed my process to verify orders, timing, and coverage before testing

Result:

• Printed out documentation of the test result and noted when it could be correctly entered for the provider

• Prevented the same mistake from recurring by changing my verification process

Reflection:

• Learned that even small assumptions can have consequences in healthcare

• As a PA → prioritize attention to detail, verify information, and accept feedback as an opportunity to improve

What do you think are the most important qualities a PA should possess?

Compassion = really helpful in their career

• Example: shadowing derm PA, she took time out of her day to show compassion and empathy for their issues, would also call insurance to advocate for coverage of their medications 

• Going out of her way for her patients → something I hope to implement as a PA

• When I room patients, I make sure to greet them positively and show compassion when they are describing symptoms/ pain
  
  

Listening/being attentive 

• Patients presenting with different issues, being a listening ear can be really helpful and showing a patient that you care for them 

• Example: shadowing an ortho PA, she recommended that they get a hip replacement surgery → she took her time to listen to their thoughts/questions/ concerns → something I hope to implement as a PA

• When I room patients, I make sure to listen closely to symptoms patients have, when it started, etc. → so provider can have clear picture

What would you change about the PA profession and what would be a law that you would pass to help PAs?

• I would want the public to know more about the profession and the PAs responsibilities in the healthcare system 

  • Helping patients understand the role of a PA 

  • Clarifying the difference between MDs and PAs 

• Potential solution: have more patients interact with PAs and see what they can do for them/how they treat them

  • Explain the profession to patients ! educating and advocating 

Is healthcare a right or a privilege?

Both

• Right: you want to ensure you are getting treated for your issues in a timely manner and being seen for preventative care → healthy population

• Privilege: with or without insurance can be very costly for appointments, labs, imaging, etc. Patients can also not have adequate transportation to get to/ from appointments.

  • Recognize the barriers that patients have to healthcare and how healthcare can become a privilege for disadvantaged or marginalized communities 

How would you say you have changed since beginning college?

Independence + Confidence

• Moved several states away → completely new environment

• Large university → no family/friends nearby

• Became responsible → laundry, cleaning, meals, schoolwork

• Learned to manage → schedule, exams, responsibilities independently

• Joined clubs/organizations → put myself out there

• Small high school → ~100 students in grade

• College classes → hundreds of students

• Initially intimidating → learned to speak up + participate

• Became more comfortable → meeting new people + asking questions

• Taught me → independence + confidence come from stepping outside comfort zone

What specialty do you believe you would want to work in once graduating from a physician assistant program?

I’m not set on one specific specialty yet, and I’m looking forward to exploring different areas of medicine during my clinical rotations. Working as a medical assistant in family medicine, I’ve really enjoyed the variety, from routine visits like physicals, annual wellness visits, and medication management to problem visits involving illnesses, injuries, and other acute concerns. I’ve also shadowed in dermatology, orthopedics, and cardiology, and enjoyed seeing the different patients, conditions, and approaches to care within each specialty. These experiences have given me a better understanding of the different roles PAs can have. Ultimately, I’d like to find a specialty that offers variety in the patients I see and the conditions I treat, while also allowing me to build long-term relationships with patients. I’m keeping an open mind and look forward to using my clinical rotations to discover which specialty is the best fit for me.

Describe a time when you worked as part of a healthcare team.

• Role as an MA is very integrated into the healthcare team 

• My responsibilities: I am the first staff member that interacts with the patients when I get them from the waiting room, I want them to feel comfortable and welcoming to sharing concerns with me 

  • I work to collect vital signs, testing, document histories, and listen to patient concerns 

• Teamwork example: he patient telling me about an acute symptom that was not what they presented for, I will communicate this with the provider and ask if there are any additional testing or steps I can take before the provider goes into the room 

• importance/reflection: I try to communicate effectively and make sure that everyone knows whats going on, bring up information with other staff members 

• What I learned → even small observations can make a difference, and I have a responsibility to communicate relevant information rather than assume someone else knows

• As a future PA → want to foster open communication, value input from other healthcare professionals, and work collaboratively to provide safe, patient-centered care

How do you plan to handle the academic and clinical rigors of PA school?

As a college student, I learned that managing my time well starts with being organized and planning ahead. I use a calendar to keep track of my classes, assignment due dates, exams, work, and other commitments. This allows me to see everything coming up so I can identify busy weeks in advance and plan my study time around them rather than waiting until the last minute.

I also learned that being efficient with my time means knowing what study strategies work best for me for different subjects. Some courses require more practice and repetition, while others may require more active recall or working through problems. Learning how to adjust my study approach has helped me use my time more effectively.

For stress, I really value staying connected with my family. During college, I was several states away from home, so I would FaceTime or call my parents and sister regularly. Growing up, we ate dinner together every night and talked about our days, so continuing that tradition from a distance helped me feel grounded. They're also the people who know me best, so talking through an issue with them can often help me put it into perspective and discuss all the available options.

I also enjoy walking outside and working out, which gives me time to step away from school work and clear my head. I know PA school will be demanding, so I think having both a structured approach to my responsibilities and healthy ways to decompress will be important for maintaining my well-being.

You are a PA on the healthcare team working in primary care. A 58-year-old patient is experiencing symptoms which make you concerned for a heart attack, but they refuse EMS. How do you address the patient/this situation?

• In this situation, first i would want to make sure the patient is currently safe or try to understand their symptoms 

• Try to understand what they are concerned about regarding emergency treatment 

  • Listen to their concerns about not moving forward, why they might be refusing that 

• After listening, I would want to be clear and emphasize what I am seeing they are dealing with 

  • Review any testing done and explain why I suggest moving forward with emergency treatment 

  • I would also emphasize the severity of my concern → review the benefits and risks of receiving or not receiving treatment to ensure the patient understands what I’m thinking and why you are choosing to escalate this care

• If the patient is still refusing after my explanation, I would respect the patients decision (AUTONOMY) 

• I would see if there is any medical treatments I could prescribe/offer in my office→ exploring alternatives with the patient that they are comfortable moving forward with

Tell me about a stressful or challenging situation you faced in a healthcare setting and how you handled it?

• Situation: while working as a MA and experiencing staffing shortages within the clinical staff 

• Task: this has caused my position and others to have more responsibilities 

  • For me, I am rooming more patients or collecting more testing 

  • At times, it can be stressful to manage all these tasks with less time than typically have 

• Action: when I feel stressed while working, I try to stay calm and focus on the task at hand 

  • Ensure I am doing everything correctly and keeping a positive attitude 

• Result: as a result, I make sure to prioritize responsibilities, in order to support my staff, provider, and patients. I also make sure to communicate openly with others during busy/stressful moments → if I need help or directions

• Reflection: being a good team member is essential to healthcare because we share a common goal of patient safety/high quality care. As a PA, although it can be stressful at times, I would make sure to be thorough and efficient while seeing and treating my patients.

Tell me about a time you received constructive criticism that was difficult to hear. How did you respond, and what did you learn from the experience?

• At the end of my freshman semester in college, I received a C+ in chemistry 

  • This was difficult for me to process at the time, I had also just moved far from home and was on my own in a big university with a large course load 

  • This made me realize that they study methods were not working well for me 

• In subsequent semesters, if I was struggling with the material or exams I would re-evaluate my study habits and ask for help when needed by going to tutoring or office hours 

• This showed me that asking for help when needed is important 

• Just need to add what the constructive criticism was! Maybe that came from a professor or classmate with regards to your knowledge/performance in the course, then showing how you used that to improve and prevented subsequent issues with studying by proactively seeking support/guidance!

Tell me about a time you had to adapt to a new environment

• Situation: sorority recruitment coordinator, assigned to specific chapter facility and needed to go through operations for recruitment → new environment being on this side of recruitment

• Task: needed to ensure timing or recruitment and coordinate schedule for chapter 

• Challenge: in this environment, a lot of things are always changing for example a potential member is missing for events 

• Action: I explained who was missing and where they should be to other members, then tried to contact members and locate them 

• Result: When the member showed up, I placed them in the correct spot to ensure the event went well 

• Reflection: in that environment, things are constantly changing and members are stressed. I learned to adapt to changes, stay calm

• Add a small connection to healthcare/patient care work! 

  • Patients come in with unexpected sx or concerns in healthcare, so being able to adapt to these needs is important in treating patients effectively

You are working as a PA in pediatrics and caring for a 2 year old healthy patient. The mother refuses a recommended vaccine for her daughter due to personal beliefs. How do you handle this situation?

• Listen with empathy and cultural humility:

  • Allow the mother to express her concerns fully without judgment to build trust and understanding.

• Provide clear, evidence-based education:

  • Explain the benefits, risks, and purpose of the vaccine, correcting misconceptions with respectful, accessible communication.

• Respect parental autonomy while advocating for the patient:

  • Acknowledge the mother’s role in decision-making but emphasize the importance of protecting her child’s health and preventing serious illness.

• Collaborate and explore supportive options:

  • Address specific fears, offer credible resources, and involve another trusted provider if helpful to guide the parent toward an informed choice.

In regards to the provider shortage, how would you get more PAs into primary care?

Having worked as a medical assistant in family medicine, I have really come to appreciate the variety that primary care offers. I think one way to get more PAs into primary care is to expose students to that variety early in their education. Primary care is not just routine visits. In my experience, I have seen patients for physicals, annual wellness visits, and medication management, but also problem visits such as sick visits, injuries, and other acute concerns. I really enjoy that no two days or patients are exactly the same.

I also think providing more opportunities for PA students to complete primary care rotations, especially in rural and underserved communities, could help students see the impact they can have in those areas. Programs could also provide scholarships or loan repayment opportunities to help reduce some of the financial barriers to practicing in underserved communities.

Ultimately, I think we need to show students the variety, relationships, and impact that primary care can offer. My own experience in family medicine has shown me that PAs can build long-term relationships with patients while also practicing a broad range of medicine, and I think that is something we should highlight to students.

You are a PA and you prescribed birth control pills for a 13 year old. The patient’s mother is angry about this decision. What do you say?

• Stay calm + listen

• Ask → what concerns you?

• Understand reason for concern

• Explain clinical reasoning

• Discuss medication + risks/benefits

• Follow state laws + regulations

• Speak privately with patient when appropriate

• Ensure patient understands treatment

• Discuss options + questions

• Encourage parent involvement if patient wants

• Respect patient rights

• Address mother respectfully

  • Goal → appropriate, safe patient care

A message appeared online warning readers of the dangers of Aspartame, and artificial sweetener as a cause of an epidemic of multiple sclerosis, a progressive chronic disease of the nervous system, and systemic lupus, a multisystem autoimmune disease. Should Aspartame be illegal?

• Don’t immediately accept the claim

• Evaluate source + credibility

• Look for peer-reviewed research

• Multiple studies + reproducibility

• Correlation ≠ causation

• Consider dose/exposure levels

• Consider other possible factors

• Strong evidence → consider regulation

• Limited/inconsistent evidence → not enough

• As PA → rely on scientific evidence

• Educate patients about health misinformation

• Encourage reliable sources

• Discuss concerns with healthcare professional

• Public health decisions → evidence-based

  • Goal → protect patients without reacting to misinformation

Is it ethical for PAs or other medical providers to take part in activities that they advise patients to abstain from such as smoking or eating junk food? Should we be regarded as role models?

• Yes → strive to be role models

• But providers don’t need to be perfect

• Practice what we recommend when possible

• Common topics → smoking/diet/exercise

• Providers are human too

• Understanding risks ≠ easy behavior change

• Avoid hypocrisy/judgment

• Be honest about challenges

• Lead by example

• Recognize behavior change is difficult

• Empathize with patients

• Provide credible guidance

• Focus on modeling healthy behaviors

  • Goal → support, not perfection

Is it ethical to treat family members?

• Close family → ethical concerns

• Personal relationship → objectivity

• Risk → blurred professional boundaries

• May know personal information

• Could influence clinical judgment

• Minor/routine help → may be reasonable

• New diagnosis, prescribing, or serious/ongoing issue → another provider

• Objective care → better for patient

• Maintain professional relationship

• Avoid conflicts of interest

• Prioritize patient safety

• Know my professional boundaries

  • Goal → safe, objective care

You are a PA taking care of a pt with gastric (stomach) cancer. You realize your pt has occasionally been missing their chemotherapy and radiation apts. You talk to the pt during the next apt and realize they have been seeing an alternative medicine provider, who has recommended they stop their treatment. What do you do and how do you respond?

• Start → nonjudgmental conversation

• Ask why they chose alternative treatment

• Understand concerns → side effects/fear/barriers

• Ask what alternative treatments they use

• Identify possible interactions/safety concerns

• Explain purpose of chemo + radiation

• Provide clear, evidence-based information

• Explain risks of stopping treatment

• Encourage oncology team discussion

• Address barriers/side effects

• Respect complementary approaches when safe

• Capacity → patient has treatment autonomy

• Ensure informed decision-making

• Maintain trust + open communication

• Goal → informed, supported patient

You are a PA taking care of a male pt. After a complete PE and workup, you discover he has HIV. He tells you he does not want his girlfriend to know the diagnosis, in fear she will leave him. Enter the room and have a discussion with the pt.

• Start with empathy + privacy

• Ask why he is afraid to tell GF

• Assess → safety concerns?

• Explain partner may have been exposed

• Encourage partner testing

• Explain effective HIV treatment exists

• Encourage treatment + follow-up

• Help patient plan the conversation

• Don’t disclose to partner myself

• Don’t promise absolute confidentiality

• Explain public-health requirements may apply

• Confidential Partner Services → partner notification

• Protect patient privacy

• Connect patient to HIV care/support

• Goal → support patient + protect partner

A patient calls back for their culture results, and you realize the test was never sent in. The sample is no longer good. What do you do?

• First → assess patient’s current condition

• Ask → symptoms improving/worsening?

• Screen for concerning symptoms → UC

• Confirm error with healthcare team

• Verify sample cannot be processed

• Still symptomatic → determine next step

• Clinically necessary → new sample

• Be honest → don’t hide error

• Explain what happened + apologize

• Make repeat testing convenient as poss

• Afterward → identify how error occurred

• Look for process improvement

• Take responsibility + communicate clearly

• Goal → patient has a plan, not uncertainty

You have an elderly patient who needs to stay at the hospital for overnight observation. The patient is refusing, but the patient’s son states the patient has dementia and is incapable of making medical decisions. The patient’s son wants the patient admitted. What do you do?

• First → assess decision-making capacity

• Dementia ≠ automatically incapable

• Speak directly with patient

• Understands recommendation + risks?

• Understands consequences of leaving?

• Ask about dementia/history

• Review medical + outside records

• Determine legally authorized surrogate

• Capacity present → respect autonomy

• Explain risks + answer questions

• Refusal → appropriate AMA process

• Capacity absent → involve legal surrogate

• Focus on patient’s best interests

• Consider patient wishes + values

• Balance autonomy + safety

You are a dermatology PA. A patient states they are out of opioid pain medication and unable to get more from their pain management physician for another few weeks. What do you do?

• Listen + understand situation

• Why opioid? → how long?

• Last dose + pain changes

• Ask about concerning symptoms

• Is pain related to dermatology care?

• If unrelated → stay within scope

• Don’t prescribe solely due to access issue

• Assess for urgent/emergency symptoms

• Emergency → appropriate level of care

• Usual pain → contact pain management

• Ask about cancellations/other provider

• Discuss safe non-opioid options

• Acknowledge patient frustration

• Be clear about prescribing limits

• Goal → safe plan + coordination

You are caring for an obese patient on multiple medications, some of which are causing side effect. would you recommends a change in medications or lifestyle?

• First priority → patient safety

• Assess conditions + current medications

• Identify side effects + severity

• Determine which medication may be responsible

• Check interactions/doses/contraindications

• Don’t stop effective medications abruptly

• Discuss lifestyle → diet + activity

• Lifestyle may improve overall health

• Weight loss may also reduce medication needs

• Medication change may reduce side effects

• New medication → possible new side effects

• Consider benefits/risks of each option

• Involve patient → preferences + goals

• Adjust treatment based on response

• Goal → effective treatment + quality of life

You are a PA. Your supervising MD asks you to administer medication to a patient. You do not agree with their decision and feel it could harm the patient. What do you do?

• Priority: Patient safety

• First: Understand why medication was prescribed

• Identify: Why do I think it could cause harm?

• Don’t assume: Physician may have information I don’t

• Review: Chart + diagnosis

• Check: Allergies + current medications

• Consider: Contraindication + drug interaction

• Approach MD: Respectfully clarify reasoning

• Share: Specific safety concern

• If concern remains: Do not administer yet

• Communicate: Explain concern to supervising physician

• Goal: Resolve potential safety issue

• If MD unavailable: Follow practice escalation procedures

• Seek: Another qualified clinician if immediate risk

• Balance: Respect physician judgment + advocate for patient

• Key: Professional communication + patient safety

If a patient has AIDS/ HIV, will you still treat them?

• Same as any other patient

• Diagnosis should never change quality of care

• Provide: Respect + compassion

• Family medicine: Care for many different conditions

• Approach every patient without judgment

• Focus on: Why they are seeking care

• HIV diagnosis does not define the patient

• Avoid: Assumptions + stigma

• Use standard infection-control precautions

• Same precautions → every patient

• Do not avoid appropriate exams/procedures

• Fear of transmission should not affect care

• Provider responsibility: Care regardless of diagnosis

• Goal: Patient feels respected, safe + comfortable

Situation/ Ethical answer template:

1) I am a… I must decide what to do in this situation.

2) Some questions I would consider in this situation are:

3) For this scenario we have vs. _, pros vs. cons

4) In this scenario, I would…

You are a PA, a patient on your schedule insists on seeing an MD. How do you respond?

• First: Ask why they prefer an MD

• Listen: Understand concerns + answer questions

• Educate: Explain PA role + scope

• PA role: History → exam → diagnose/treat → prescribe → collaborate

• Reassure: Capable of providing appropriate care

• Collaboration: Involve/consult MD when needed

• No pressure: Don’t force patient to see me

• If still prefers MD: Respect their decision

• Next step: Schedule MD or reschedule appropriately

• Key: Patient autonomy + informed choice

  • Goal: Patient feels heard + respected

You are a PA. You are at a baseball game and the woman in front of you has a suspicious mole you suspect could be melanoma. What do you do?

• First: Recognize uncertainty → not a clinical setting

• Limitations: No exam/history → cannot diagnose melanoma

• Questions: Does she know about it? Seeing dermatology?

• Stranger: Likely do not approach

• Why: Could be wrong → unnecessary anxiety

• Privacy: Respect personal space + unsolicited advice

• If I know her: Approach privately if appropriate

• Language: “I noticed a concerning/different mole”

• Avoid: Presenting melanoma as a diagnosis

• Suggestion: Recommend professional evaluation if not already addressed

• Key: Respect + uncertainty + scope of practice

Why South University- West Palm Beach?

I chose to apply to South University’s West Palm Beach Physician Assistant Program because of its strong emphasis on hands-on clinical training and the opportunities it provides students to develop their skills in a variety of clinical settings. 

I am particularly drawn to the program’s partnership with the Florida Atlantic University Schmidt College of Medicine Clinical Skills Simulation Center. Practicing with standardized patients and receiving video feedback would allow me to strengthen my clinical and communication skills in a realistic environment before entering clinical rotations. I am also excited about the opportunity to participate in human cadaver dissection through the Miami Anatomical Research Center. I learn best when I can connect concepts from lecture to something I can visualize and physically explore, so this experience would help me develop a deeper understanding of anatomy. Additionally, the program’s use of advanced clinical technology, including EKGs, point-of-care ultrasound, echocardiography, X-ray, and CT imaging, would help me connect classroom knowledge to the practical skills I will need as a PA. Learning how to use and interpret these technologies would also better prepare me to make informed decisions when ordering diagnostic tests, reviewing results, and determining appropriate next steps in patient care.

Finally, I am drawn to the program’s class size of 50 students. I believe a smaller cohort would foster a close-knit, collaborative learning environment where students can build relationships with faculty, feel comfortable asking questions, and learn from one another’s perspectives. I would value the opportunity to work closely with my classmates during group activities and hands-on clinical training, where we could share ideas, strengthen our communication skills, and support one another through the challenges of PA school. 

I am also encouraged by the program’s strong outcomes, including its 98% PANCE pass rate, which reflect its commitment to preparing students for successful careers. Overall, I believe South University would provide the hands-on training, collaborative environment, and clinical foundation I am looking for as I work toward becoming a well-rounded PA.

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