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An Open Letter to Anyone Applying to PA School

Dear CASPA Applicant,

      I know how much of your time has been consumed with the application process. I know how hard it has been to gather all your LORs, keep track of all your volunteering hours, and edit your personal statement. I know how expensive this process can be (when I looked into my "cart" of programs I had added to my CASPA I nearly screamed). But, I also know how badly you want this, and not just for yourself. I know you want to become a health care provider to provide care to those who in need; to give any family their mother, daughter, son, or father back. I know, I get it.

      I know how difficult it is to juggle all of this on top of your normal every day life, whether that's being a parent, being a student, or being an employee. Trust me, there were many a times when I thought, "I can't handle this now, maybe I'll just try next year" (there is nothing wrong with a gap year, but I myself had not wanted to take one and in this circumstance, felt like I wanted to give up with a plan I had set in place for myself"

      I know how intimidating those interviews can be. Every school seems like they're looking for something different, it seems impossible to be able to impress them all, right? I know how you've stressed for days trying to plan out the perfect interview outfit to impress the admissions committee (and have probably changed your outfit a few times). I know of the bandaids you'll have to pack because you're trying to break in a new pair of shoes for this special occasion. I know how nerve wracking it'll be to have this interview be the only thing standing between you and your dream (and how sweaty you'll be).

      I know how heart breaking it'll be if you don't get an interview or acceptance to a school. I know how frustrating it'll seem when you thought your interview was perfect, and you think, "what could have gone wrong?" I know how this rejection will feel like your world is over, but it won't be. I promise.

       I also know how incredible (almost indescribable) it'll feel when you finally get accepted. All your hard work will pay off in the end, whether it's this cycle or the next. There is no expiration on your dream.

So when you feel like giving up and throwing in the towel, don't. When you feel heartbroken because of a rejection, consider that maybe everything happens for a reason and that there might be an even better suited school out there for you. Whatever you do, just don't let your fear of being rejected stop you from being the successful health care provider you know you can be. Whether the dream of becoming a PA comes true tomorrow, or not for another 5 years, it will happen if you continue to work towards your goal.

I know you can do this.

Sincerely,
A person who was in your steps




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