Career Resources

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Why I Changed Specialties as a PA
One of the major advantages of becoming a PA is that it is relatively easy to change from one specialty to another without the need for new certification. More than 50% of PAs will change specialties during their careers, according to AAPA’s Salary Report.

Checklist: Leaving a Job
You will no doubt move through a series of positions in your PA career. Here’s how to make a job transition gracefully with professional bridges intact.

Guide: Planning a Break From Practice
Here are some considerations for PAs who wish to take a break from full-time clinical practice.

Video: Which Career Path Is Right for You?
There are so many ways to be a PA…from clinical practice in dozens of specialties to non-clinical careers in research and education. Check out our video to help you explore your options and take advantage of tools to help you get there!
Resigning From Employment
Moving on from your current job? We’ve got the guidance – and the checklist – you need on how to transition gracefully, along with tips on what to handle before your final day.

Anatomy of a Contract
Use our interactive tool to familiarize yourself with a contract. We’ve outlined the key elements typically found in PA employment contracts and offered some advice on what to expect, ask for, and be wary of in each section.
Guide: Where Will You Take Your PA Career?
Starting out as a PA, you have many options available to you. You can head into a clinical or nonclinical role, and even consider independent contracting. Here’s a list of questions you can ask yourself to help determine where your interests lie.

How to Find Your Voice at the Leadership Table
Looking for ways to ensure that your voice is heard at the leadership table? Alisha T. DeTroye, MMS, PA-C, DFAAPA, director of PA Services at Wake Forest Baptist Health and president-elect of North Carolina Academy of PAs, shares her tips.

Find Your Passion at Any Stage of Your PA Career
Whether you are just starting your PA career, are in mid-practice, or near retirement, be cognizant of what drives and ignites you. By taking inventory, considering new initiatives, and talking to other PAs, you can find your passion.
Strategies for PAs to Prevent Burnout
While work/life balance will always be provisional and imperfect, it is worth seeking; it is essential PAs take care of themselves to prevent professional and personal burnout.
PA Portfolio
PA Portfolio is a secure, online sharing and storage tool for important education, licensing and certification, and career records.
PA Student to PA: Navigating the Transition
While the transition from program to practice may seem overwhelming and nerve-wracking, PA students can set themselves up for a successful career start with these tips.
Plan Time Away and Return to Practice
Taking a break and returning to practice is a common pattern in the PA career cycle. Planning and preparation can make all the difference in how smooth or how challenging the resumption of PA practice will be.
Career Experts Offer PAs Advice on Contract Negotiation
Three career experts offer their advice on AAPA member-submitted contract negotiation questions.
Boundaries and Professional Wellbeing
PAs need to create professional boundaries as part of a healthy career.