What to give your PA school application a serious boost? Strongly consider joining a Pre-PA club or membership. Now, we know what you’re thinking—“Do I really need to add another thing to my plate?” But trust us, this isn’t just any extracurricular activity. Being part of a Pre-PA club or membership could be the edge you need to stand out from the crowd of competitive applicants. So, let’s break down why it’s worth your time (and your sanity).

1. You Get Insider Knowledge (AKA, the Good Stuff)

Ever feel like you’re just guessing what PA schools want from you? You spend hours on Google trying to piece together the puzzle that is the PA school application process. But when you’re part of a Pre-PA club or membership, you’re getting the inside scoop from people who’ve been there, done that. These clubs often host workshops, webinars, or talks from current PAs, admissions committee members, and successful applicants. It’s like having your own personal cheat sheet for what schools are really looking for.

2. Networking: It’s Who You Know, Not Just What You Know

Let’s be real—getting into PA school is about more than just having great grades and healthcare experience. Networking is a big deal. In a Pre-PA club, you’re surrounded by like-minded students who are all trying to reach the same goal. You’ll build connections that can last throughout your entire career. Plus, when you attend club events, you might meet faculty members, current PAs, and even PA school admissions representatives. Who knows? That person you had a casual chat with at a club event could end up being the one who vouches for your application.

3. You Stay on Top of Your Game (Without Losing Your Mind)

Being part of a Pre-PA club means you have access to resources that will keep you on track. Clubs often have study groups for the GRE or workshops on how to ace your interviews. You’ll also stay updated on deadlines, application tips, and other crucial information you might miss if you’re flying solo. It’s like having a personal assistant reminding you to cross your T’s and dot your I’s—except it’s a whole club of people doing it for you.

4. Community: Because This Process Can Feel Lonely

Applying to PA school can sometimes feel like you’re on an island, especially when your friends or family don’t really get what you’re going through. Being part of a Pre-PA club gives you a built-in support system of people who understand the struggle. These are the people you can vent to about that brutal organic chemistry exam or swap tips on how to get more shadowing hours. You’ll have a community to lean on when things get tough, and trust me, that makes all the difference.

5. It Shows You’re Serious About Becoming a PA

Admissions committees are looking for applicants who are genuinely invested in the profession. Joining a Pre-PA club shows that you’re not just dipping your toes in the water—you’re all in. You’re willing to take the extra step to learn, grow, and develop into the best future PA you can be. That kind of dedication speaks volumes on your application.

6. Leadership and Volunteering Opportunities—Hello, Resume Boost!

Most Pre-PA clubs offer leadership roles or volunteer opportunities that can be a huge boost to your resume. Whether it’s organizing a fundraiser for a healthcare-related cause or serving as the club president, these experiences show admissions committees that you have the leadership skills, initiative, and passion that make for a strong PA school candidate. Plus, they give you more to talk about in your CASPA experience sections and interviews.

Final Thoughts

So, is joining a Pre-PA club or membership worth it? Absolutely. It’s not just about padding your resume—it’s about gaining valuable knowledge, building connections, and staying focused throughout this wild journey to PA school. Plus, you’ll have a group of people to celebrate with when that acceptance letter finally lands in your inbox.

Take the plunge, find a Pre-PA club or membership that works for you, and dive in. Your future PA self will thank you for it. Come join us inside PA-Cers, our professional membership for pre-PAs where you also get weekly PA shadowing hours to add to your CASPA app in addition to adding PA-Cers as a membership entry! Win-Win!