In clubs across the country, we often see a range of leadership roles, typically falling into these categories:

• Organizational Management (ex. President, VP, Treasurer)
• Member Management (ex. Secretary, Diversity Chair)
• Member Experience (ex. Event/Social Chair, Volunteer Chair, Public Relations Chair)

(Schools may require certain organizational leadership.)

There is no requirement for pre-PAs to become a member of AAPA or another pre-PA organization, but membership in a national organization like AAPA can help them find new opportunities and become a competitive applicant for PA school.

Pre-PA clubs may choose to require membership dues to help cover the cost of running events, inviting new speakers, and spreading club awareness. Sometimes these dues will also include national or state chapter fees. Consider including AAPA Pre-PA Membership in your member dues, or encourage members to sign-up on their own. Consult your institution for policies regarding membership dues.

Your institution may provide support for students and student organizations. Here are some places to seek support:

• Advising Services (ex. planning your schedule, applying to PA school, finding shadowing experience.)
• Financial Aid Office (ex. calculating the cost of attendance, loan support, scholarship guidance.)
• Career Services (ex. mock interviewing, resume review, personal statement editing, networking.)
• Student Activities Office (ex. student org. support, membership dues, by-laws and constitutions.)
• Health and Wellness Center
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Center
• Office of Disability or Accessibility
• International Student Office

The best way to prepare to become a PA is to get connected! Spreading the word about local and virtual pre-PA events is a great way to engage your members and support their journey. AAPA hosts live events year-round for pre-PAs to learn about areas of practice, mingle with peers and mentors, build essential career skills, and connect with practicing PAs and current PA students.

Depending on the needs and interests of your members, you can help them earn patient care experience from a local healthcare event or gather a group of members for a CPR certification course. Whether you are planning a PA program visit, hosting a fundraiser, building lab skills, or joining an AAPA virtual webinar, live opportunities will engage and excite your members.

Although PA school application requirements are well-defined, admission is highly competitive. Pre-PAs will be expected to complete prerequisite coursework, a minimum number of experience hours, and entrance exams prior to admission. They may also be expected to submit supplemental applications, provide a financial deposit, and attend interviews. Understand the requirements with the PA School Application Timeline and Checklist. A complete list of PA programs and their requirements is available via the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA).