Lets just get this out there. Ageism exists. Some people look at the year you were born to determine if you are value added. It’s not fair, or ethical, but it happens. Ageism a form of discrimination that gets overlooked. Older candidates that are attempting to get into PA school fear that their age will be the deciding factor for them to be denied. This, my friends, is not true. Here is why-
- The PA profession is founded on second careers. The original PAs were already medically trained before pursuing their degree. There has been a slow decrease in the average age of a starting PA, but that is only an average
- You are only as old as you think you are. If you act like you are exhausted and can’t handle a rigorous schedule then guess what? You aren’t cut out for PA school. But if you feel young and full of energy then don’t let anyone tell you that you are too old. !
- PA programs benefit from diversity. I can’t say this enough. Learning medicine in a diverse classroom setting will make you a better provider. PA schools know this and strive for it.
- Being a “mature” candidate will make you stand out. The breadth of life experiences you bring will be apparent during the interview portion of the application process. Don’t hide it, let it shine!
- Every class of PA graduates can tell you about how many people they had in their 40’s, 50’s, and even 60’s. You are not an anomaly.
You should never let society tell you who or what you can be. Focus on your strengths. Focus on your amazing accomplishments that made you into the compassionate, well-rounded caregiver that you are. Your future patients will thank you! If you need help on how to present your best self, contact us at rachael@patrekcoaching.com.
Thank you, this is a second career but my original calling in life.
That is so great! Callings don’t have expiration dates 🙂
I’m 50, in PA school, and could not be more happy!! I was born to do this!
We need more people with your passion!