Extracurricular activities are an essential part of your PA school application. They allow you to showcase your leadership, commitment to healthcare, and dedication to your community. But not all extracurriculars are created equal, and it’s important to choose and present them strategically to catch the attention of admissions committees.

What PA Programs Are Looking for in Extracurriculars

• Eagerness to Learn: Typically through clubs, such as university Pre-PA Clubs, this showcases your commitment to learning more about the PA profession, gaining familiarity and unique insights into the career, and your commitment to networking with others who share the same passion.
• Leadership: Whether it’s through student organizations, healthcare initiatives, or even non-medical groups, demonstrating leadership skills shows that you’re ready to take initiative in your future career as a PA. PAs need to make decisions, guide teams, and take responsibility in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
• Commitment to Service: PA schools are searching for candidates who are dedicated to helping others. Volunteer work, particularly with underserved populations, is an excellent way to showcase your commitment to healthcare and making a difference in your community.
• Well-Roundedness: While healthcare-related activities are important, admissions committees appreciate applicants who have diverse interests. Being involved in non-medical extracurriculars can show that you’re a well-rounded individual who can handle multiple responsibilities.

Top Extracurricular Activities to Consider

1. Clubs and Student Organizations: Joining and leading student organizations—particularly health-focused ones—can set you apart. Look for clubs that align with healthcare, such as a pre-PA club, pre-health society, or public health group. If your school doesn’t have one, consider starting a club to show your leadership and initiative. Participation in student government or non-health-related organizations can also highlight your ability to work with others and manage responsibilities.
2. Collegiate Athletics or Intramurals: Being part of a collegiate or intramural sports team showcases your teamwork, discipline, and time-management skills. PAs often work in collaborative environments, so demonstrating that you thrive in team settings is a strong selling point. Athletics can also highlight your perseverance and ability to handle pressure, qualities that are essential in the fast-paced world of healthcare.

How to Highlight Extracurriculars in Your Application

• Depth Over Breadth: PA programs are more interested in your depth of involvement rather than the number of extracurriculars. Focus on activities where you made a meaningful contribution or took on a leadership role or that you were involved with for a longer period of time than just a semester or two. It’s better to have fewer activities where you can demonstrate significant involvement than a long list of superficial commitments.
• Link to PA Qualities: When discussing your extracurriculars in your personal statement or interviews, make sure to link them to qualities that PA schools value. For example, if you were a leader in a student organization, explain how this experience taught you about teamwork, decision-making, or communication—key skills for a PA.

By strategically selecting and presenting your extracurriculars, you can show PA schools that you’re not only academically prepared but also a well-rounded, service-oriented, and committed future PA.