Canadian PA

Sonya P. is a first-year student at the University of Calgary’s MPAS program who gained acceptance into PA school in her 3rd round of applications. In this video, she shares how she navigated rejection, what changed the second time around, and what life’s been like in her first year of PA school.View full episode show notes:canadianpa.ca/podcast/35IN THIS EPISODE:Part 1: Discovering the PA Path​00:42 How Sonya Found the PA profession​03:26 Shadowing PAs First Time​04:10 Sonya’s Pre-PA Stats​07:01 Her Acceptance JourneyPart 2: Sonya’s Experience with PA Admissions​07:50 Reapplying After Rejection​13:14 Applying Out-of-Province​14:46 Inside Calgary Admissions​16:49 CASPer Test Strategy​19:43 References That MatterPart 3: Inside PA School​22:50 Starting PA School​23:47 Calgary MPAS Program Structure​27:44 How PA Students Study​30:58 Best Study ToolsPart 4: Real PA Student Life​34:54 Day in PA School​38:00 Balancing School and Life​40:02 What Second Year BringsPart 5: Advice for Applicants​42:28 Preparing for PA Practice​44:13 Advice for Pre-PAs​45:14 Fixing Application Weaknesses​47:30 Managing Application DeadlinesCONNECT WITH CANADIAN PAIG @canadian.paIG @canadianpapodcastYT: youtube.com/CanadianPACanadian PA Community:Pre-PA Facebook GroupPre-PA Discord ChatSubscribe to the Canadian PA Community

Nawal shares how she gained multiple Canadian PA program offers of admissions. She talks about what helped her stand out, how she found patient care experience, tips for interviews, navigating the Casper test, and what life is actually like as a PA student.Connect with Nawal: http://instagram.com/nawal_arshi_________________✰ IN THIS VIDEO:00:00 From Undergrad to Accepted PA Student04:23 Exploring Career Paths: Why PA Made SensePA ADMISISONS:05:16 Gaining Health Care Experiences from scratch09:52 Securing Strong references with Limited Connections12:00 Leveraging Extracurriculars in your PA Application14:47 Pre-PA Snapshot: My Application Stats18:10 Choosing the Right Program: Why I Picked Calgary MPAS27:19 A Walkthrough of the PA Admissions Timeline28:48 Casper Test Prep: What Worked for Me36:22 Preparing for MMI Interviews: Strategies and Insights40:44 Developing Professional Communication Skills: Learning Early and FastLIFE AS A CALGARY MPAS STUDENT:43:50 Relocating and Starting PA School in Calgary49:10 A Day in the Life: Calgary MPAS Year 1 (PA-S1)54:07 Study Tools That Help Me Stay Organized and Focused57:00 How I Study: Adapting to the Demands of PA School01:01:18 Making Group Study Effective in PA School01:05:59 What to Expect from 2nd Year Clinical Placements (PA-S2)FINAL NOTES:01:07:24 Advice I’d Give Every Pre-PA Student01:10:14 Final Thoughts and Staying Connected_________________✰ MORE ABOUT CALGARY MPAS:Calgary MPAS Program Website ➡︎ : https://cumming.ucalgary.ca/physician-assistantCalgary MPAS Instagram ➡︎ http://instagram.com/calgarympas

Curious about the University of Calgary’s Master of Physician Assistant (PA) Studies? Join us for an engaging webinar featuring current PA students who share their experiences, insights, and advice about the program. Learn about the application process, program structure, and what it’s like to be a PA student in Canada. Featuring 1st year Calgary MPAS Students, Anithra, and Jayden. Moderated by Sonya. Thank you to Calgary's MPAS Student Association for agreeing to put this on!📚 Topics Covered:- Day-to-day life as a PA student- Tips for prospective applicants- Program highlights and clinical placements- Balancing school, work, and personal life

Aurthi is a Canadian Certified Physician Assistant working in Emergency Medicine and in her first year of PA practice! We first interviewed Aurthi when was just starting the second semester in her first year of PA school! She now reflects back on her journey. JUMP TO: 00:53 Update from Aurthi Since 1st year PA School2:41 Finding work after Completing PA school in OntarioWORKING IN EMERGENCY MEDICINE:4:13 What drew me to Emergency Medicine5:30 Where PAs work in the Our Emergency Department7:23 Benefits of adding a PA to the ED8:49 Common Conditions seen in the ED10:22 Procedures PAs performing in the ED11:53 Different Patients we treat in the ED12:51 What a Patient can expect when seeing by a PA13:44 Orientation to the ED as a New PA Hire15:29 How PA School prepared me for my first PA Job16:36 What can Doctors Expect when working with a PA18:24 PA Scope of Practice in the Emergency Department17:50 The PA/MD Relationship in the Emergency Department21:41 Who do PAs work with in the Emergency Dept22:30 Impact COVID-19 has had on Aurthi's practiceRESOURCES FOR EMERGENCY MEDICINE: 24:09 Tips to Succeed in your Emergency Medicine Rotation (Tips for PA Students)25:49 Preparing for End-of-Rotation Exam in Emergency Medicine (Tips for PA Students)26:24 Helpful Resources for Emergency Department PAsPA JOB HUNT: 27:34 Tips for Securing Employment after PA School29:37 Job Market for New PA Grads in OntarioREFLECTING ON PA PRACTICE: 31:13 Reflecting on my Decision to Become a PA in Canada322:10 What I enjoy about being a PA

The webinar will briefly go over the different PA school program application requirements and then we will go into detail about what each component is and how the first-year PA students approached each aspect.Original webinar was hosted by Pradha (@pradha_the_pre_pa) on instagram, reposted with permission from Pradha and webinar panelists. Please note: Always check the PA program websites for the most up-to-date information on admissions. This webinar was presented for the 2021-2022 Admissions Cycle based on information available on October 17, 2021. ___HOST: Pradha: https://www.instagram.com/pradha_the_pre_pa/𝐌𝐜𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐏𝐀𝐄𝐏 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬:▫️ Heidi (@thesunnypa)▫️ Jaimin (@jpegg_thepa)▫️ Olivia (@thesurferpa )▫️ Selina (@selinathepa)𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐚 𝐌𝐏𝐀𝐒 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬:▫️ Dana (dana_skaritko)▫️ Laural (@lkthepa)𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐒𝐜𝐏𝐀 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬:▫️ Carolyn (@thenwopa)▫️ Casey (@caseythepa)Original publish date: October 21, 2021

From a Live Q&A with 1st year University of Toronto PA Students Hannah and MC. JUMP TO A SPECIFIC QUESTION IN THE Q&A:Part 1: Pre-PA Journey• 1:53 Why did you choose to become a PA?• 5:24 What helped you stand out on your application?• 9:15 What were your Pre-PA Stats?Part 2: Life in PA School• 13:03 Why did you chose to attend UofT's PA Program?• 16:56 What is 1st year PA School like at UofT?• 19:35 What is the best way to stay on top of studies in an online delivery model? • 23:25 What happens in 2nd year PA School?• 24:38 How are you graded in PA school? (pass/fail/%?)• 26:44 How hard is PA School? • 29:46 Is it possible to work while in PA School? Part 3: Applying to PA School - Admission Requirements, Interview Tips• 32:10 What makes a strong candidate for UofT's PA Program?• 35:09 UofT PA program Admission Requirements• 37:34 Health Care Experience Hours for PA School• 39:37 UofT's PA Supplemental Application: Tips & Approach• 43:57 Format of UofT's PA School Interviews this year (2021 Application cycle)• 46:58 How to practice for the MMI• 53:56 Waitlisted for the MMIPart 4: Reapplying to PA School• 55:57 Rejection from PA School: How to strengthen your application for next year• 1:00:15 Time it takes to process the initial PA school rejection• 1:04:02 Changing your PA school app when re-applying• 1:06:03 Parting words, words of advice from Hannah & MC

Getting In, Problem-Based Learning, and Interview PrepIn this episode, I sit down with Shada and Toni, two first-year McMaster PA students who survived the application cycle and lived to tell the tale. We pull back the curtain on the "med school mindset" trap, the reality of McMaster’s Problem-Based Learning (PBL) style, and why your summer camp job might actually be your greatest interview asset. IN THIS EPISODE: 02:00 Why did you choose to become a PA?06:03 How did you choose your undergraduate degree?11:57 Experiences that made you a strong PA school candidate20:26 Why McMaster's PA program?28:05 What problem-based learning looks like in PA school35:38 What first year PA school is really like41:11 What happens during second year and clerkship44:29 Admission requirements explained47:20 Are patient care hours required?49:25 Tips for the McMaster supplementary application54:26 What the MMI interview is really like55:47 How is a virtual MMI different than in-person?58:59 Preparing for PA school interviews01:12:07 How should you dress for the virtual MMI?01:16:23 Managing nerves during the MMI01:23:22 Final advice for future PA applicantsABOUT OUR GUESTSToni, PA-S1 Toni is a first-year PA student at McMaster University with a background in Honors Biochemistry and Psychology. Before PA school, she was a lead planner for McMaster’s Science Welcome Week and a volunteer assisting individuals with spinal cord injuries. Shada, PA-S1 Shada is a first-year PA student at McMaster University who completed her undergrad in Biomedical Science and Neuroscience at the University of Guelph. A long-time camp counselor turned senior staff member, she brings a deep focus on advocacy and community to her journey toward becoming a PA. Originally published: April 22, 2021

Ever wondered if you can actually survive the University of Manitoba’s PA program without completely disappearing from your own life? In this episode I'm joined by Rachel and Kelsey, two current students who pull back the curtain on the "Master’s" side of PA education, from managing remote work during the didactic year to navigating the stress of the MMI. KEY TAKEAWAYSLeverage the U of M shadowing program. If you are in Winnipeg, stop guessing what the job is like and apply for the WRHA's formal shadowing program; it affirmed everything for Rachel and will give you concrete stories for your interview. Journal your "competency stories" now. Don't just read about the MMI; look at the PA competencies and the university’s mission statement, then write out specific life experiences that prove you align with them so you aren't digging through your memory mid-interview. Choose references who actually know you. Pick people who have seen you handle a disagreement or a heavy workload rather than someone who will just list generic qualities; the admissions committee wants to see how you'll act in a real-world team. Embrace the generalist mindset. Remember that unlike an MD who specializes early, you are being trained to move between fields; focus your "Why PA" answer on that flexibility and the desire for constant, frontline patient interaction. Don't sweat the "perfect" undergrad degree. Whether it's Arts or Science, Manitoba just wants to see a four-year degree and high performance; pick a major you actually enjoy so you can keep your GPA high and your options open. ABOUT OUR GUESTSRachel and Kelsie, PA-S are current students in the University of Manitoba Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program. Rachel came to the program with a background in clinical psychology and research, while Kelsey navigated the application process as a successful out-of-province candidate. Originally published April 18, 2021

What does it actually look like to build a PA role from the ground up in a high-needs environment? In this episode, I sit down with Anthony, a 2018 Toronto PA program grad who walked away from a stable neurosurgery gig to tackle the "wild west" of addictions and mental health in downtown Ottawa. It’s a raw, honest look at the grit required to serve stigmatized populations and why being a PA is sometimes about much more than just the medicineWHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS VIDEO: • 0:15 Working with Vulnerable Populations• 1:48 Working in Primary Care, Addictions & Mental Health as a PA• 5:03 A Typical Day in the Life of a PA in Primary Care, Addictions & Mental Health• 6:40 Medical Directives to work with Indirect Supervision• 7:08 Getting Oriented to a New Practice as a new PA Hire• 8:27 Common Conditions Seen• 9:18 Less Common Conditions Seen• 11:14 Working with Marginalized Populations• 13:57 Challenges on the JobABOUT OUR GUESTAnthony, is a 2018 graduate of the University of Toronto PA program. After gaining experience in neurosurgery, he transitioned to full-time practice in downtown Ottawa, where he focuses on the intersection of primary care, mental health, and addictions medicine. He is currently the primary PA resource for a multi-clinic organization serving the city's most vulnerable populations.Originally published March 5, 2021

Shada is a 1st year PA student at McMaster University and she shares her experience exploring different careers in health care, applying to PA school and studying as a PA student. What you'll learn in this interview with Shada:• 1:15 How Shada heard about the PA profession• 5:13 What drew me to the PA profession• 6:20 Speaking to my Family about becoming a PA• 8:28 Exploring Different Careers in Health Care• 10:56 My Pre-PA Shadowing Experience• 14:16 Applying to Canadian PA programs• 14:55 Standing out on PA Admissions• 18:01 Experiences I attribute to My Success• 20:53 Self-Reflective Questions Pre-PAs can Ask• 23:01 Habits I had to maintain a good GPA• 25:35 How I Prepared for PA Admissions• 28:40 My Experience in PA School• 31:26 Adjusting to Online learning during COVID-19• 33:37 Documenting my PA Journey on Instagram• 38:57 What I find challenging about the PA professionOriginally published: January 30, 2021

How Journaling Helped Hannah Build a Competitive PA School ApplicationWhen you’re navigating the road to becoming a Physician Assistant in Canada, there are a lot of unknowns. This is especially true when you're choosing between different career paths, managing self-doubt, and trying to stand out in an increasingly competitive applicant pool.In this episode of the podcast, we sit down with Hannah Keith, a first-year PA student at the University of Toronto, who shares her honest and thoughtful journey to PA school. Hannah was accepted to both McMaster and U of T and what helped guide her was something simple but powerful: journaling.EPISODE SUMMARYIn this episode of the podcast, we sit down with Hannah Keith, a first-year PA student at the University of Toronto, who shares her honest and thoughtful journey to PA school. Hannah was accepted to both McMaster and U of T, and what helped guide her was something simple but powerful: journaling.What We Cover in This Episode:The “Why PA” Pivot: How Hannah shifted her focus from a lifelong goal of medical school to the PA profession through intentional research and journaling.Building Your Experience Bank: Hannah’s strategy for using an Excel sheet to map her volunteer and work experiences (like being a fitness instructor and teaching calculus) to the CanMEDS-PA roles.Direct vs. Indirect Patient Care: Why working as a medical receptionist provided the “rapport-building” skills necessary for PA school, even without prior certifications.Resilience and GPA: A candid look at overcoming a rocky start in undergrad and why a high GPA is about long-term perseverance, not a perfect score on every test.Family & the “New” Profession: Tips on how to bring family members along your journey to help them understand and support your choice of a non-traditional medical career.Interview Prep: Using resources like Doing Right and Mock MMIs to prepare for the Kira Talent and virtual interview process.ABOUT OUR GUESTHannah is a first-year PA student at the University of Toronto. Originally from British Columbia, she has a background in biology and specialized graduate training in aging and health. With experience ranging from overseas clinical observation in Malawi to working in local family practices, she is passionate about team-based care and the future of the PA profession in Canada.Follow Hannah’s PA journey on Instagram @hannah.the.pa

Andrew Lim is a Canadian Certified Physician Assistant who works in Orthopaedic Surgery at Sunnybrook alongside their department of 16 Orthopaedic Surgeons, many residents and fellows. He is a graduate of McMaster's PA program.This video is the FULL interview. You can jump to a certain section of the interview: Part A: Andrew's Journey to Becoming a PA• 00:27 Before becoming a PA• 2:31 What I enjoy about being a PA• 3:15 My Experience in PA School• 4:48 Tips for Excelling in your Clerkship Year• 5:33 How PA School Prepared me• 6:18 Securing Employment after Graduating from PA SchoolPart B: Working in Orthopaedic Surgery:• 7:28 What is the Specialty of Orthopaedic Surgery?• 8:39 Describing the Department I work in• 9:21 How the PA role fills in the Gaps in Care• 10:25 Day in the life - Inpatient/Ward Management• 12:09 Day in the Life - On-Call Responsibilities• 13:49 Common Conditions I come across, and Procedures I perform• 16:48 My role in the Fracture Clinic• 18:37 Teaching with Residents and Fellows• 19:34 A typical Week in the Life of a PA in Ortho TraumaPart C: Integrating a PA into an Orthopaedic Surgery Department: • 20:37 Hows PAs are Utilized in the Orthopaedic Surgery Department• 21:38 Tracking PA Productivity• 22:59 Steps to Integrating a PA into the Department• 24:02 What are Medical Directives?• 24:49 Prescribing Medication as a PA• 25:25 What to Expect when adding a PA to your Practice• 26:40 Scope of Practice of Orthopaedic Surgery PAsPart D: Reflecting on PA Practice:• 27:25 What I enjoy about Orthopaedic Surgery• 28:20 Challenges of Working in Orthopaedic Surgery• 29:34 Working with a PA vs. Resident/Fellow: Similarities and Differences• 30:30 The PA/MD Relationship: Attributes of a Physician who would work well with a PA• 31:24 Staying on top of Updates in Orthopaedic Surgery: CME and Ortho Conferences• 32:45 Tips for PA students/PAs interested in Orthopaedic Surgery• 33:45 How I see my role evolving as an Orthopaedic Surgery PA• 34:35 Reflecting on My Decision to become a PA• 35:19 How I answer the question, "What is a PA?"• 36:31 Coming to the CAPA Annual PA Conference🩺 Link to the full post with Andrew: ➡ http://canadianpa.ca/orthotraumapaRead about Andrew's experience with finding employment through Ontario's PA Career Start Program: __________________________❐ 𝗠𝗖𝗠𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥 𝗣𝗔 𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗞𝗦 ❏🇨🇦Official McMaster PA program website https://fhs.mcmaster.ca/physicianassistant/🇨🇦McMaster PA Student Resource Website http://mcmasterpa.weebly.com❐ 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗖𝗘𝗦 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗣𝗔 𝗔𝗗𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦 ❏🔏Articles for PRE-PA STUDENTS: https://canadianpa.ca/prepa🔏Books for Getting Into PA School: https://canadianpa.ca/books/🔏Canadian PA Program Comparison Chart https://manitobapafellowship.weebly.com/comparing-pa-schools.html🎓Canadian Pre-PA Facebook Group | https://facebook.com/groups/canadaprepa/❐ 𝗦𝗘𝗘 𝗢𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥 𝗣𝗔 / 𝗣𝗔 𝗦𝗧𝗨𝗗𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪𝗦 ❏🩺Practicing Canadian PA Interviews: https://canadianpa.ca/paprofiles🩺More Canadian PA Student Interviews: https://canadianpa.ca/studentprofiles/________________________________▓ ▓ ▓ DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE PA ADMISSIONS PDF ➡ http://canadianpa.ca/admissionspdf❐ 𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗜𝗦 𝗔 𝗣𝗛𝗬𝗦𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗡 𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗧? ❏⭐️ What is a PA? EXPLAINED: http://canadianpa.ca/whatisapa⭐️ PA Infographics: http://canadianpa.ca/infographics❐ 𝗙𝗢𝗟𝗟𝗢𝗪 𝗖𝗔𝗡𝗔𝗗𝗜𝗔𝗡 𝗣𝗔 ❏✅ Blog | http://www.canadianpa.ca✅ Facebook | http://facebook.com/CanadianPA✅ Instagram | http://instagram.com/canadian.pa✅ Pinterest | http://pinterest.com/canadianpa✅ Twitter | http://twitter.com/CanadianPAThe Canadian PA Youtube Channel is not affiliated with any official organization or education program. All views expressed on this video are that of the individuals', and not representative of any organization or education program.

Adam joins us to share a career path that is as diverse as the general surgery ward he manages. From his early days as a rural LPN and RN to becoming a pioneer PA in Manitoba, he explains why he traded the nursing care model for the medical model to "keep things fresh." Adam proves that previous can be a launchpad, not a hurdle. We dive into the "drinking from a firehose" intensity of PA school and what it actually looks like to carve out a niche in a surgical subspecialty where no PA has worked before.IN THIS EPISODE:BEFORE PA SCHOOL: 0:15 Where I'm from 0:40 Adam's Experience Before PA School: Licensed Practical Nursing2:00 How Adam came across the PA Profession EXPERIENCE IN PA SCHOOL: 3:28 Adam's Experience in 1st year PA school at Manitoba 4:50 What's involved in 2nd year PA school at Manitoba6:02 Core Rotations in 2nd year PA school 7:28 Locations of 2nd year PA Clinical Rotations 9:13 Finding work after graduating from Manitoba's PA Program (Class of 2013)WORKING IN GENERAL SURGERY AS A PA11:24 Working as a General Surgery PA in Manitoba 13:21 Getting Oriented as a new PA Hire in General Surgery 19:09 Day in the Life of a General Surgery PA22:03 Common Conditions seen in General Surgery 23:53 Adam's Role as a PA in the Operating Room - Surgical First Assist 26:41 Procedures done by a General Surgery PA SCOPE OF PRACTICE + BUILD ING COMPETENCY AS A PA 27:55 Learning Procedures as a General Surgery PA 29:13 Building Competency as a PA 30:58 What Patients can Expect from me as a PA32:35 How Adam interacts with nursing & allied health on the ward 34:10 The PA/MD Relationship: Interacting with a Supervising Physician35:19 Level of Autonomy as an Experienced Practicing PA37:02 Defining PA Scope of Practice 38:22 What Adam enjoys about being a PA 39:51 How Regulation affects PA Practice in Manitoba 41:21 The Impact of Having a PA in a General Surgery Service FINAL NOTES 43:18 Opportunities for Growth after becoming a PA45:23 Adam's Current Research InterestsKEY TAKEAWAYS: Move away from “I can work part-time" mindset of PA school. Adam learned quickly that the PA curriculum is condensed medicine at a relentless pace. You need to be ready to fully immerse yourself in the didactic year because the volume of information is exactly like drinking from a firehose.Leverage “scut work” as a relationship builder. Don't turn your nose up at ward management or patient rounding. Use those constant bedside interactions to build trust with the nursing staff and allied health teams; it's how you become the "resident who never leaves" and gain true autonomy.Advocate for a role that doesn't exist yet. If your dream specialty doesn't have a PA posting, create one. Adam highlights how many of his peers materialized jobs by tracking down physicians, demonstrating their competence during electives, and proving how they improve system efficiency.Master the "what if" of every procedure. Learning a skill like opening an infected wound or inserting a central line is more than just "see one, do one, teach one." You have a professional responsibility to study the complications of every step so you are prepared when things don't go according to plan.Think of your career as a long-term evolution. Moving into a PA role isn't the end of your growth. Whether it's switching specialties after a decade or pursuing an MBA to influence healthcare policy from the top down, the portability of this profession is its greatest strength.ABOUT ADAM:Adam is a Manitoba PA working in General Surgery at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg. With a decade of nursing experience (LPN and RN) before transition to the medical model, he now specializes in surgical oncology and HPB (liver, pancreas, and bile duct) surgery. He is currently completing his MBA to focus on healthcare sustainability and leadership.Originally published: June 14, 2020

Inside the University of Manitoba PA Program: First-Year Intensity, Second-Year Rotations, and Thriving in Clinical TrainingCarmen, a second-year PA student at the University of Manitoba, describes first year as an intense whirlwind with an undergrad-like first semester (biochem, anatomy, physiology) followed by an overwhelming second semester focused on adult and emergency medicine and pharmacology, then a third semester that feels more manageable as study strategies solidify. She explains that learning medicine requires broad, concept-based critical thinking rather than memorization, alongside an 8-to-5 classroom schedule, limited lunch breaks, and increasing hands-on experiences like anatomy labs, patient assessment, procedure labs, and weekly early exposures shadowing clinicians. Carmen outlines second year as more clinical with about nine rotations (including pediatrics, community health, emergency, surgery, psychiatry, OB/GYN, family, internal medicine, plus electives like pediatric ICU and cardiology), discusses long ward hours and call shifts, emphasizes advocating to be hands-on, and shares approaches to procedures, burnout prevention, capstone research requirements, and PA advocacy work through student representative roles.IN THIS EPISODE:00:00 Meet Carmen00:14 First Year Overview01:11 Learning Medicine Mindset01:44 Classroom Schedule02:05 Hands On Labs02:41 Typical Day Routine03:31 Weekend Study Balance04:04 Capstone Explained05:05 Second Year Clinical Shift05:46 Rotations Breakdown06:49 Rotation Expectations07:47 Long Hours Reality08:34 Pediatric ICU Highlights09:12 First Year Prep Value09:50 Procedures And Prescribing10:27 Avoiding Burnout11:33 Decompress After Shifts12:19 Ideal PA Student Traits13:00 KAPPA Student Rep Role14:38 No Regrets Choosing PAOriginally published: April 20, 2020

Jordan, a University of Toronto PA graduate, shares how early hands-on experience through patient transfers and Saint John Ambulance led him to a career in paediatric emergency medicine at SickKids in Toronto. He walks through his decision to choose the PA path over paramedicine, emphasizing long-term career sustainability, clinical autonomy, and team-based care. PA training, including northern clinical rotations, ICU electives, and how those experiences shaped his clinical judgment and confidence. His transition into practice highlights how strategic electives and timing with the Career Start Grant directly influenced landing a role at SickKids before even writing his licensing exam. The conversation offers a detailed look at paediatric emergency medicine, from managing high patient volumes to treating everything from viral illnesses to complex genetic conditions. Jordan explains how PAs improve department flow, standardize care, and support physicians by managing lower acuity cases while maintaining flexibility for urgent presentations.View full episode show notes and resources: https://canadianpa.ca/podcast/21WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow to build early clinical experience that strengthens your PA application What paediatric emergency medicine looks like in a tertiary care centre like SickKids How to use clinical rotations strategically to secure a job after graduation What skills matter most for succeeding as a PA in a high-acuity environment

Stephanie is a McMaster-trained PA who graduated in 2015 and landed her dream job in maternal fetal medicine (MFM) at McMaster University Medical Centre. Four years later, she's still there seeing high-risk pregnancies, first-assisting on cesarean sections, and teaching PBL tutorials at the very program that trained her. She explored other professions like genetic counselling, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and even applied to an accelerated nursing program before stumbling across the PA profession online one night. What she found in the McMaster PA program was a self-directed learning model that immediately clicked, and a four-week MFM elective that quietly became a job interview. Stephanie shares what work as a subspecialty PA practice looks like in Canada. She discusses the clinical depth of MFM and the emotional weight of working with patients facing the hardest moments of a pregnancy. View full episode show notes & resources: https://canadianpa.ca/podcast/20WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow to use elective rotations strategically as a “working interview“What the day-to-day PA role looks like in a tertiary maternal fetal medicine service from triage to the operating roomHow to build credibility in a specialty where almost no one knows what a PA isWhat to expect when PA autonomy shifts in a high-acuity subspecialty setting

Maggie is a PA practicing physiatry in Hamilton. She divides her time between an outpatient MSK clinic and a spinal cord injury unit. After graduating from McMaster with a background in kinesiology, she secured her first position by building professional relationships during her clinical electives.Physiatry focuses on the intersection of musculoskeletal medicine and neurology. In this role, Maggie performs ultrasound-guided injections and manages Botox treatments for spasticity. Her daily responsibilities also include conducting new consults, seeing follow-up patients, and completing medical documentation.The transition into a specialized field required a significant learning curve. To manage this, Maggie spent her first six months working closely with her supervising physician. They debriefed after clinics and she observed his appointments to understand the clinical reasoning behind his decisions.Maggie also addresses common misconceptions about the profession. She views being a PA as a distinct career choice rather than a backup for medical school. For those interested in physiatry, she suggests completing an elective and speaking directly with clinicians in the field.View full episode show notes & resources: https://canadianpa.ca/podcast/19WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow to use clinical placements to secure a jobThe daily responsibilities of a PA in physiatryHow to navigate the learning curve of a specialized roleThe professional distinction between a PA and a physician

Brooke Grant is a second-year PA student at McMaster University who made a deliberate choice to start clerkship in an elective rather than a core rotation. Over her first month in radiation oncology at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, she saw new patients independently, presented a complex case at tumor board, and contributed to a quality improvement project redesigning H&P templates across multiple cancer site groups.In this episode, Brooke reflects on what those first weeks looked like in practice. From navigating the mindset shift between student and clinician, to learning what the PA role actually looks like in a subspecialty setting.View full episode show notes and resources: https://canadianpa.ca/podcast/18WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow to choose your first clinical placement based on learning environment rather than perceived skill transferWhat presenting a complex oncology case at a multidisciplinary tumor board looks like as a PA studentHow to build clinical confidence when you're being evaluated from day oneWhat the PA role actually looks like in a subspecialty, from a student who observed it firsthand

Sarah Floyd, a second year Physician Assistant student at McMaster University and former registered massage therapist, shares the path that led her to PA school. She reflects on discovering the PA role through firefighter health research, exploring different healthcare careers, and navigating a challenging first application cycle after being waitlisted and declined by several Canadian PA programs. After strengthening her interview preparation and reapplying during a difficult personal year, she was accepted on her second attempt.In this episode, Sarah also talks about what it takes to succeed once you get into PA school. She explains how PA learning differs from undergrad, the study systems that helped her keep up with McMaster’s problem based curriculum, and what clinical training looks like, from longitudinal placements to clerkship and electives. She also shares honest reflections on professionalism, patient care, and balancing life outside school while planning a wedding during training.View full episode show notes and resources: https://canadianpa.ca/podcast/17WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow to position a non-traditional healthcare background as an asset in the PA application processhat McMaster's PBL model genuinely requires from students beyond classroom preparationHow to approach longitudinal placements (LPs) clerkship rotations, and preceptor relationships with professionalismWhat responsible social media use looks like for PA students representing their program, their patients, and their profession

Kelsi is a first-year PA student at the Michener Institute and one of the few students in the program from Alberta. After six straight years of applying to medical school, she pivoted to PA and hasn't looked back.Kelsi discusses costs financially, logistically, and emotionally, to pursue PA training as an out-of-province student. She covers her 25-hour drive from Calgary to Ontario, her strategy for surviving second-year rotations split between Thunder Bay and Toronto, and why she feels a genuine obligation to bring the profession back home to Alberta.View full episode show notes and resources: https://canadianpa.ca/podcast/16WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow to turn years of medical school rejections into direct preparation for a PA interviewWhat out-of-province students need to plan before second-year clinical rotations beginHow to build a study schedule that holds up when you've been out of school for five or six yearsWhat the PA profession currently looks like in Alberta and why early graduates carry unusual advocacy responsibility

Eden shares her path from a microbiology background at the National Microbiology Lab to becoming a Physician Assistant through the University of Manitoba, highlighting how the removal of healthcare hour requirements changed her trajectory. She breaks down why the PA profession offers flexibility, strong patient relationships, and a sustainable career in medicine.She outlines the structure of the Manitoba’s MPAS program, describing the intensity of first-year didactic learning, early clinical exposure, and the transition into clerkship rotations alongside medical students. Her insights clarify what it actually feels like to move from classroom learning to clinical responsibility without a built-in support system.Eden walks through her transition from a rural hospitalist role with high autonomy to a specialized hematology-oncology position in acute leukemia and bone marrow transplant. She gives a clear picture of daily responsibilities, procedures, and the emotional and clinical complexity of caring for oncology patients.View full episode show notes and resources: https://canadianpa.ca/podcast/15Connect with Eden:Eden’s Blog: The PA Journey: A Canadian Perspective

Danielle was a third-year Health Sciences student at the University of Waterloo when she came across a Forbes article about physician assistants and decided to apply to PA school before finishing her degree. She got into the University of Toronto PA program, and two months from graduation, she sat down to share what the process actually looked like.Danielle discusses building a competitive application without formal clinical training, including how she went from lifeguarding to working as an ophthalmic technician in an ophthalmology practice. She also gets honest about the shift from first-year didactics to clerkship, what she learned about herself on rotation, and what she wishes someone had told her earlier.View full episode show notes and resources: https://canadianpa.ca/podcast/14WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow to build meaningful healthcare experience without formal qualifications or prior trainingWhat made a 3.87 GPA application stand out beyond just the numbersHow to use your institution's free career centre resources to prep for the supplemental application and MMIWhat the difference is between first and second year PA school

Saif is a first-year McMaster PA student and Canadian Armed Forces reservist who initially followed a pre-med pathway. A casual mention of the PA profession prompted him to explore an alternative direction. Despite writing the MCAT and applying to medical school, he ultimately reassessed his goals and decision-making framework before committing to the PA route.Saif outlines his thought process for career decision making, ensuring alignment with long-term lifestyle and professional goals rather than credential or title.He also discusses an overview of the McMaster PA program, including the structure of PBL, commonly used resources among first-year students, and insights from longitudinal placements regarding exposure to different areas of practice. The content is relevant for individuals comparing training pathways or seeking an understanding of the first-year academic and clinical experience.View full episode show notes and resources: https://canadianpa.ca/podcast/13WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow to evaluate PA vs. MD career pathwayHow PBL is incorporated into McMaster’s PA ProgramHow to develop communication skills in preparation for the MMIHow 1st year PA school Longitudinal Placements are structured

In this episode, I speak with Aurthi, a first year Physician Assistant student at the University of Toronto. She walks through her path from studying kinesiology and medical sciences at Western University to discovering the PA profession and deciding to pursue it instead of medical school.Aurthi explains how she built patient care experience through volunteering, working as a kinesiologist in physiotherapy clinics, and serving as a medical assistant. We also discuss GPA expectations, healthcare experience requirements, and the differences between applying to Canadian and American PA programs. She also describes what the first year of PA school at UofT looks like, including residential blocks, online learning, clinical experiences, and study strategies that helped her stay organized in an accelerated program.View full episode show notes and resources: canadianpa.ca/podcast/12WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow to build meaningful Pre-PA health care experiences How to balance varsity athletics, leadership roles, and academic performance during undergradWhat factors influence the decision to choose PA school over medical school in Canada

Cole Colbourne, a University of Toronto PA graduate, shares his journey from Coast Guard search and rescue to becoming a PA in the multi-organ transplant program at University Health Network in Toronto. His work focuses on managing complex, immunosuppressed patients before and after liver transplantation, where he witnesses dramatic patient transformations while navigating the demanding realities of transplant medicine.The role demands mastery of multiple organ systems since Cole covers all transplant services during night and weekend calls, managing complications like renal dysfunction, infections, and metabolic disorders. His experience reveals how PAs integrate into high-acuity teams, working autonomously with fellows while maintaining close collaboration with nurses and allied health professionals to deliver comprehensive patient care.View full episode show notes and resources: https://canadianpa.ca/podcast/11WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow to build a foundation in complex medicine through ICU rotations and internal medicine experience before specializing in transplantWhat qualifies transplant patients for surgery, from pre-transplant assessment through post-transplant complication management and dischargeHow PAs establish autonomy and leadership on inpatient services by managing their own patient rosters while collaborating closely with supervising physicians and fellowsWhat resources and study strategies translate classroom knowledge to bedside practice, including Toronto Notes and UpToDate for case-based learning during clinical rotations

Maureen Taylor is a former CBC journalist who spent 25 years covering health reporting before discovering the McMaster Physician Assistant program through a story assignment. At 48, she entered PA school, transitioned fully into clinical practice, and now works in infectious disease after an earlier role in emergency medicine at Sunnybrook Hospital.She describes the infectious disease PA role as a consult-based service focused on antimicrobial decision making, complex inpatient cases, and hospital-wide collaboration. Her background in journalism shaped her ability to synthesize evidence quickly, communicate clearly with patients, and function effectively within fast-moving clinical teams.View full episode show notes and resources: canadianpaca/podcast/10WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow to Maureen navigated a late-career transition from journalism into PA training and clinical practiceWhat the infectious disease PA role involves in hospital consult services and antibiotic stewardshipHow fecal microbiota transplantation is used as a treatment for recurrent C. difficile infectionWhat transferable skills from health journalism translate directly into PA clinical decision making

In this episode, we explore the the PA role in Radiation Oncology with Maitry Patel, a Canadian Certified Physician Assistant at Princess Margaret Hospital. Our discussion details the clinical integration of PAs within academic oncology departments, the mastery of cross-sectional anatomy, and the administrative strategies used to secure permanent funding. Maitry provides an overview of how PAs serve as a critical bridge within multidisciplinary teams to improve patient access and care outcomes.View full episode show notes and resources: https://canadianpa.ca/podcast/9IN THIS EPISODE: Part 1: Maitry's Journey to PA• 0:00 Introduction• 0:12 Meet Maitry: A Trailblazing Canadian PA• 2:14 Breaking In: Maitry’s First Big Move into the Field• 3:22 Decoding the Oncology LandscapePart 2: Inside the Rad-Onc Clinic• 5:13 Why Radiation Oncology Captured My Heart• 6:43 Navigating the Toughest Parts of Cancer Care• 8:08 Mapping Out My Annual Flow• 8:56 A Week in My Shoes: Balancing Clinics and Care• 14:33 Training the Next Generation of Oncology PAsPart 3: The PA Effect in a High Volume Practice• 12:04 Building a High-Trust PA/MD Partnership• 13:20 Through the Patient’s Eyes: Why Having a PA Matters• 18:31 The "PA Effect": Driving Real Change in Radiation Oncology• 31:00 Mastering Medical Directives in Ontario• 35:46 B Where the PA Profession is HeadedPart 4: Expert Wisdom• 34:42 How I Stay Inspired and Keep Growing• 36:33 Tips for Breaking Into Radiation OncologyKey TakeawaysAdopt a mindset of "bridging the gaps" between members of the health care team, including the patient. Maitry explains that while PAs function as an extension of the entire healthcare team, bridging gaps between administration, nursing, and clinical medicine.Prioritize cross-sectional anatomy if you're eyeing specialized fields. In Radiation Oncology, being able to interpret CTs, MRIs, and PET scans are vital for PAs in oncology to participate in complex treatment discussions.Focus on holistic patient advocacy when breaking bad news. Providing high-quality care involves addressing a patient’s emotional resilience and social concerns alongside their clinical treatment. Track your clinical impact numbers from day one. Maitry was able to quantify her impact on the department, using data to demonstrate that introduction of a PA reduced patient wait times from3 months to 3 weeks, which eventually secured her permanent funding. Leverage your flexibility as a unique selling point. Unlike residents or fellows who may be site-specific, a PA’s ability to cover multiple site groups, such as breast, prostate, and gynecology, makes them indispensable in busy academic centres like UHN. ABOUT OUR GUESTMaitry Patel, CCPA, is a graduate of the McMaster University Physician Assistant program (2014). She currently serves in the Department of Radiation Oncology at Princess Margaret Hospital, University Health Network, where she manages a diverse patient population across various site groups. Beyond her clinical practice, she is involved in peer-related research and serves on the planning committee for the Association of Physician Assistants in Oncology.

Saira Rashid is a Physician Assistant in General Surgery at Mount Sinai Hospital, where she has expanded her role beyond clinical work to include teaching, research, and quality improvement projects. In this episode, she walks us through her path to surgery, how she manages a three-tiered PA career, and why keeping an open mind during rotations in PA school made all the difference.She talks to us about two active studies: a PA-led mobile discharge monitoring app for colorectal surgery patients and a drain management device trial for breast surgery patients. Saira did not have a research background prior to starting, and she breaks down her process from idea to publication. She demonstrates why research is one of the most powerful tools PAs have to advocate for their patients and the PA profession.WHAT YOU’LL LEARNExpanding PA practice beyond including clinical work, teaching, and research How to start a research project without a formal research background, including finding collaborators, protected time, and fundingThe step-by-step process Saira uses to take a clinical problem and turn it into a publishable studyWhy PA-led research matters beyond your own practice and what it means for the PA profession in CanadaView full episode show notes and resources: canadianpa.ca/podcast/8

Becky Mueller, is a certified PA, trained in Chicago and has spent her career in Ontario, holding roles in both curative-intent oncology and palliative care across Owen Sound and Brampton. This episode documents the clinical, operational, and emotional dimensions of palliative care PA practice, including evidence-based arguments for earlier palliative referral, scope delineation between PAs and NPs, and the structural gap in palliative care access across the GTA.Becky details how she independently built and managed a home-based palliative service within a Brampton private family practice, covering patient scheduling, advance care planning documentation, symptom management protocols, and 50/50 on-call coverage with her supervising physician. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:How palliative care differs from hospice and end-of-life careWhy earlier referral produces measurably better patient outcomesWhat the the operational structure of a home-visit palliative PA practice looks like, including patient load, scheduling logic, blood work decision-making, and on-call managementHow to navigate the prescribing limitation for narcotics as a PA (in Ontario) and maintain an effective working relationship with your supervising physicianNon-negotiable traits for anyone considering the palliative care pathView full episode show notes: canadianpa.ca/podcast/7

Claire is a McMaster PA graduate who currently practices as an Inpatient Oncology Hospitalist PA at Sunnybrook. She discusses the clinical complexities of cancer care, ranging from managing acute febrile neutropenia to navigating deeply personal goals of care conversations with patients and their families.She also explains how she expanded her career into research and academia by pursuing a Master’s degree to study existential distress in the inpatient setting. Her story is a roadmap for how being vocal about your specific interests can lead to a specialized and fulfilling role in a niche field.WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow to coordinate international 2nd year PA school electives like Johns Hopkins through networkingClinical responsibilities and scope of practice of an oncology PAHow to effectively integrate a PA role into a multidisciplinary hospital teamView full episode show notes and resources: canadianpa.ca/podast/6

In this episode, we sit down with Deniece O'Leary, a physician assistant with extensive experience in both Southern California and Ontario, Canada. Deniece shares her unique perspective on the evolution of the PA profession across borders, her role in clinical education at McMaster University, and the immense value of professional lateral mobility. Our conversation explores the practical differences in scope of practice, the challenges of navigating a developing healthcare model, and the critical importance of being a vocal advocate for the profession.View full episode show notes and resources: canadianpa.ca/podcast/5WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow scope of practice, prescribing authority, and billing structures differ between Ontario and CaliforniaWhat accreditation and credentialing barriers currently prevent PA licensure across the US-Canada borderHow to approach specialty transitions across family medicine, dermatology, and orthopedic surgery within the Canadian systemWhat physicians need to understand about PA scope and delegation before integrating a PA into their practiceABOUT OUR GUESTDeniece O'Leary, PA-C is a physician assistant currently practicing family medicine in Ontario, Canada. Originally trained in Southern California, she moved to Ontario to support the launch of the physician assistant program at McMaster University. Her career spans multiple specialties, including dermatology and orthopedic surgery, reflecting her commitment to clinical flexibility and medical education

Natalie is a McMaster-trained CCPA with clinical experience across Ontario, Manitoba, and Alberta. Her career has spanned General Surgery, Cardiac Surgery, and Geriatrics, leading to her current role in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (OHNS) at a major academic center in Edmonton. In this high-volume surgical environment, she is often the sole PA managing a ward of 20 to 30 oncology patients. This role requires close coordination with resident teams and the ability to triage complex consults flown from as far as the Northwest Territories.WHAT YOU’LL LEARNWhat working on an academic surgical resident team looks like for a PA, including scope, consult flow, and OR accessHow to start a research project without a formal research background or fundingWhat characteristics Natalie believes make someone well-suited to practicing as a PA in the Canadian healthcare landscapeView full episode show notes and resources: canadianpa.ca/podcast/4

GUEST BIOKirsten is a Canadian Certified Physician Assistant who built her career across two distinct worlds: a full military career that took her from British Columbia across the country, and a civilian PA practice she entered with deliberate intention. She came into the PA profession with a clear surgical interest, applied to multiple positions on graduation, and ultimately landed in neurosurgery through a demonstration project at her Alberta hospital after an unexpected call over the Christmas holidays.She now works on a neurosurgery service alongside 12 neurosurgeons, managing a ward of 30 to 50 patients, performing procedures including drain management and lumbar drains, first assisting in the OR, and spending a significant portion of her time counseling families navigating devastating diagnoses. Her military background gave her a team-first orientation that translated directly into civilian hospital culture, and she credits that foundation for making the transition feel manageable.Outside her clinical role, Kirsten is an active voice for PA advocacy in Alberta, where regulation has cleared legislation and is working toward final policy approval. She speaks at conferences to educate nurses and other health professionals about the PA role, mentors prospective PAs who reach out to shadow her, and keeps a close eye on the possibility of a PA training program eventually opening in the province.WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow to position yourself for a PA role in a surgical specialty that has never hired a PA beforeWhat a neurosurgery PA's daily responsibilities look like across ward management, family counseling, first assist in the operating room, and proceduresHow to protect your mental health and build sustainable boundaries when working in high-acuity, with possibility of high morbidity specialtiesWhat the current state of PA regulation and workforce development looks like in AlbertaView full episode show notes: canadianpa.ca/podcast/3

Canadian Certified Physician Assistant working in gynaecologic oncology, currently at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto. In this episode, she walks through how a conversation with a single practicing PA in fourth year undergrad set her on a path to one of the most specialized surgical oncology roles a Canadian PA can hold.</p>Sandy explains what gynaecologic oncology actually is, why it's unique among surgical oncology specialties, and what her day-to-day looks like across two major cancer centres. She works with patients across multiple clinical settings, including management of chemotherapy side effects in clinic to performing paracentesis and assisting with ovarian debulking in the OR.WHAT YOU’LL LEARNWhat Gynaecologic-Oncology is, and why its a surgical specialty that both removes tumours and administers chemotherapyHow PAs provide continuity of care in cancer centres where residents rotate constantlyWhat procedures a gynae onc PA performs, from endometrial biopsies to ultrasound-guided paracentesisView full episode show notes: canadianpa.ca/podcast/2

Sahand is a Canadian Certified Physician Assistant specializing in emergency medicine in downtown Toronto. He is a graduate of McMaster University’s PA program. While in his undergraduate study, Sahand transitioned from exploring pharmacy trajectory in favour of practicing medicine through the PA career route, seeking a direct patient-facing role with an efficient training-to-practice timeline. His focus remains on high-acuity, generalist care within fast-paced emergency department at an academic hospital. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:How Sahand decided PA was the right profession for himHow to use Clinical Rotations in 2nd year PA school to validate specialty fitHow PAs are deployed across different zones of an emergency departmentView full episode show notes and resources: canadianpa.ca/podcast/1Follow along: @canadianpapodcastHosted by: @canadian.pa