Example Of Admission Essay On Why Do I Want To Become A Physician Assistant

He was pale, sweating, and in tremendous pain. My dad was lying on his bed crying out my name and holding his chest. My heart was pounding, my thoughts were racing, and my knees were shaking as I ran into his room. I was 18 and terrified as I stood in front of my dad who I had no idea how to help. I called 911 and called relatives in the area to let them know what was going on. My father had a heart attack and there was nothing I could do to help him. Once we reached the hospital the medical team took over my dad's case. I was left to wait alone. The physician assistant that was taking care of my dad came over to me to ask me some questions. I will never forget how compassionate he was. He looked me right in the eye and said, "He's going to be fine, we are taking great care of your dad." He sat next to me, and introduced himself as David. He explained to me what happened and what were the next steps. He patiently sat with me and addressed all my questions and fears and helped me calm down. He didn't rush through the conversation and he made me feel as though I played an important part in my dad’s recovery. Five years have passed since then and David's dedication to his patients and compassionate demeanor have stuck with me, and are the characteristics that first attracted me to the PA profession.

I have always dreamed of having a career that is fulfilling where I could make a significant contribution. During my freshmen year of undergrad I started volunteering at NYP/Weill Cornell Medical Center in the oncology department. I saw how hospital staff worked tirelessly to bring joy and care to patients; each with a unique set of experiences and stories that they shared with me while I volunteered. Even though I had a strong desire to be part of the medical field, my grades in college prevented me from thinking I could have a successful career as a medical professional. Instead of seeking help, I kept on the way I was going, until I was placed on academic probation. I went through a lot of self-reflection and realized that I needed to get my life back in order. I transferred to another college and began afresh with no looking back or sulking. I regained my drive to pursue the career of physician assistant. I continued to volunteer at NYP/Weill Cornell Medical Center but transferred to the Emergency Department. It was there that I gained patient care experience and insight into the medical field. I was given the opportunity to shadow Physician Assistant Marina Lev RPA-C at an outpatient surgical clinic, and it was through her that I gained a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed as a physician assistant. Through her work, I gained a glimpse into the future I desired for myself.
Through my shadowing experience I learned to interpret x-rays, place splints, and how to conduct a thorough physical examination. The role of a PA often includes discussing a full medical history and taking the time to educate patients. Mattie Stepanek once said that “Unity is strengthwhen there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved.” This has become central to my perspective in the health care field while shadowing. I realized that the patient receives the greatest benefit when healthcare providers work as a team. After shadowing my PA I realized how much more I could offer patients after proper training. 
Volunteering in the busy ER at Cornell Medical Center, I learned the necessity of effective and efficient communication and the primacy of the patient.
Many patients in the ER are frustrated and angry and at first I didn’t know how to deal with them, but through experience I learned how to handle usspset people. As a volunteer I hoped to have a significant impact on the individual’s perception of their hospital experience. I want to have greater connections with patients and a greater impact on their treatment than I currently have shadowing or volunteering. The experience of working with other healthcare professionals has increased eagerness and willingness to learn all the responsibilities associated with becoming a physician assistant.
The Physician’s Assistant plays an important role in making healthcare accessible. My unique background and my dedication have equipped me to make a meaningful contribution to the field by providing a sympathetic ear to the concerns of my patients and to interact with them on a personal level, just as David did with me. I expect the program to provide strong clinical training with a balance between medical education and patient care and will help me master new skills and sharpen my clinical judgment. The patient is at the center of health care and it is only their satisfaction and improved quality of life that truly matters in the setting. The work is demanding and tiring, but ultimately fulfilling. I have aspirations of providing excellent care to every patient I encounter, and this program will provide me with the academic foundation necessary to do just that.