Top Do’s and Dont’s for a Standout PA School Personal Statement
Ready to make your personal statement one that admissions committees won’t forget? This is more than just an essay—it’s your chance to show why you’re prepared and passionate about the PA profession.
Let’s go over the essential do’s and don’ts, with real examples and prompts to help bring your story to life.
Do: Start Strong with a Memorable Hook
Make an impact from the very first line. 📣
Begin with a story or moment that defines why you’re pursuing this path. Choose something that stands out.
Example: "I knew healthcare was my calling the day I held a patient’s hand as they received difficult news, offering silent support in one of their toughest moments."
Don’t: Use generic phrases like "I've always wanted to be a PA" or open with a resume summary.
Prompt: Think back—what’s one moment that first drew you into healthcare? How did it shape your goals?
Don’t: Repeat Your Resume
This is your story, not a list of achievements. 🎭
Do: Share experiences that deeply impacted you, focusing on personal growth and key takeaways.
Example: "During my time as an EMT, I learned to find calm amid the chaos, especially on calls where every second mattered."
Don’t: List every role and responsibility in your background. Stick to what’s most meaningful.
Prompt: Was there a time when a specific role changed your perspective on healthcare? What moment showed you why being a PA is the right fit?
Do: Show, Don’t Just Tell
Bring your qualities to life through real stories.
Use examples and anecdotes to illustrate your traits, like compassion, adaptability, or resilience.
Instead of saying, "I’m compassionate," try: "I remember staying by a patient’s side long after my shift ended, knowing that my presence made a difference to them during a difficult time."
Don’t: Rely on adjectives alone. Show them what you’re made of through actions.
Prompt: When was the last time you brought a patient’s experience home with you? Why was it so impactful?
Don’t: Use Overly Complex Language
Keep it real and relatable. 🗣️
Do: Write in a way that sounds like you. Be genuine, clear, and concise.
Don’t: Overload with complex terms or jargon. If it doesn’t feel natural, skip it.
Prompt: Imagine explaining your journey to a friend. What words would you use to help them see your passion?
do: Highlight Why PA Is Right for You
Be clear about what draws you specifically to the PA role. 🩺
Share what appeals to you about being a PA, such as the opportunity to work across specialties, collaborate with physicians, or form patient-centered connections.
Example: "The PA role allows me to work across specialties and build patient relationships, a combination that’s uniquely suited to my strengths."
Don’t: Confuse PA with other healthcare professions. Show you understand the PA’s unique role in patient care.
Prompt: Why the PA route over other healthcare careers? Was there a moment that clarified this decision?
Don’t: Ignore the School’s Mission and Values
Align your goals with what the program values. 🎯
Do: Subtly reference the values or mission of the programs you’re applying to, highlighting shared principles.
Example: "I’m excited by [School Name]'s commitment to underserved communities, a focus that aligns with my own dedication to health equity."
Don’t: Make your essay sound generic or non-specific. Tailor it to show your fit.
Prompt: What is it about this program’s mission that excites you? How does it align with your goals as a PA?
Do: Proofread, Proofread, Proofread
Small errors can make a big impact. ❌
Double-check for typos, grammar issues, and flow. A well-edited essay shows attention to detail.
Don’t: Rely solely on spellcheck. Consider getting a mentor, friend, or professional (like me!) to review it.
Prompt: After editing, ask yourself, “Does this feel like the best version of my story?”
Don’t: Exceed the Word Limit
Concise writing is powerful. 📝
Do: Stick to the word or character limit, ensuring each sentence adds value.
Don’t: Try to “squeeze in” extra information by stretching the word count. It’s all about quality, not quantity.
Prompt: Edit with a friend or mentor and ask them, “What stands out to you most?” Let that be your focus.
Do: End with Impact
Make your final line resonate. 🌠
Close by reinforcing your commitment and readiness for PA school, leaving a lasting impression.
Example: "I’m ready to bring my passion and dedication to the next chapter as a PA student and, ultimately, a compassionate provider."
Don’t: Use clichés like "In conclusion" or "Thank you for reading."
Prompt: Think about what you want the reader to remember about you. What’s the key takeaway?
Final Thoughts
Your personal statement is where you get to be you—your passions, your purpose, your “why.” 🩺 Be genuine, be specific, and don’t shy away from sharing the moments that brought you to this point. With these do’s and don’ts, you’ll have a strong foundation for creating an essay that’s both compelling and memorable.
And if you’re looking for guidance or feedback, I’m here to help!
Check out my services at Gray’s Academy, and let’s make your application unforgettable.