Shadowing a PA isn’t just about checking a box on your PA school application—it’s one of the best ways to figure out if this is the right path for you. It’s also a great way to learn what the day-to-day life of a PA is actually like (spoiler: it’s not all sutures and saving lives) and make an impression on a potential future reference.

But here’s the thing: simply showing up, watching silently, and leaving without saying much? That’s a missed opportunity.

If you want to make the most of your PA shadowing experience, asking thoughtful questions is key.

Let’s break down:

• What types of questions you should ask
• What to avoid
• And how to be respectful of the PA’s time while still engaging like a future colleague

Why Asking Questions Matters

When you’re shadowing, you’re not expected to know everything (or anything, really)—but curiosity goes a long way. Thoughtful questions show that you’re genuinely interested, eager to learn, and paying attention.

Plus, it helps you get a more complete picture of what it’s actually like to be a PA. That’s important for you as much as it is for writing killer CASPA essays later on.

When to Ask (Without Being Annoying)

• During slower moments: Between patients, at lunch, or at the end of the day
• After procedures or exams: Ask follow-ups once you’re out of the room
• If the PA invites questions: Take them up on it!

Avoid asking questions while a PA is actively examining or treating a patient unless they’ve given you the green light.

Great Questions to Ask While Shadowing a PA

Here’s a list of questions that go beyond the basics—and won’t make you sound like you just Googled “PA interview prep” that morning.

About the Role:

• What do you love most about being a PA?
• What’s something that surprised you about this job when you first started?
• What’s the biggest challenge in your day-to-day?
• How do you manage work-life balance in this field?
• What would you tell your younger self before PA school?

About the Clinical Environment:

• How does collaboration work with your supervising physician or healthcare team?
• What’s the patient population like here?
• Do you feel like your input is respected by patients and other providers?

About Their PA Journey:

• Why did you choose PA school over other healthcare paths?
• What was your PA school experience like?
• How did you choose your specialty?
• Do you feel like PA school prepared you well for your first job?

Application/Advice Questions:

• Is there anything you wish you had done differently during your pre-PA years?
• Do you have any advice for writing a strong personal statement or CASPA app?
• What do you think makes an applicant stand out?

What NOT to Ask

• How much do you make? (Just… don’t.)
• Is this enough shadowing for a letter of recommendation? (Build a relationship first.)
• Overly technical or academic questions (unless it fits the moment—this isn’t your A&P lab.)

Final Pro Tip: Take Notes!

Right after your shadowing session, jot down what you saw, what you learned, and any standout moments. This will make it so much easier to write about it later in your CASPA shadowing description.

Want More Help with Shadowing, CASPA, and PA School Apps?

Our PA-Cers Membership includes weekly virtual PA shadowing hours in a wide range of specialties—plus replays that count toward your CASPA shadowing hours. It’s the best way to build real insight into the PA profession and beef up your app with legit shadowing experiences (even if you don’t have a local PA to follow).

Join PA-Cers now and start checking off those shadowing boxes—with purpose!