This track supports students aiming to apply to Master’s-level PA programs. These programs typically require a strong foundation in science, clinical experience, and specific prerequisite courses. Most Pre-PA students at FGCU major in Biology - Pre-Professional Concentration. Please reach out to the One Health Pre-Professional Program Coordinator at prehealth@fgcu.edu for the most personalized support.
The FGCU PA program can be contacted directly at paprogram@fgcu.edu
BEYOND CLASSROOM
Clinical Experience
- Work or volunteer in clinical settings to gain direct, hands-on patient care experience.
Common roles:
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Medical Assistant (MA)
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Phlebotomist
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EMT/Paramedic
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Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
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Patient Care Technician (PCT)
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ER Technician
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Shadow physician assistants across various specialties. Keep a log of hours, dates, and reflections.
- Check individual programs for specific patient care and shadowing hour requirements.
Undergraduate Research
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Research is not required but demonstrates critical thinking and professionalism.
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Join a faculty-led research lab (often available to biology majors).
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Consider BSC 4910C (Senior Project – Research) or BSC 4944C (Senior Project – Internship) as your capstone experience.
Leadership
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Join the Pre-PA Association or Pre-Health Pathways Society at FGCU.
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Take leadership roles in campus or community organizations.
Enrichment Opportunities
- Summer internships or global health experiences may strengthen your application.
- Attend pre-health conferences, PA school fairs, or professional development workshops.
Community Engagement
- Engage in service-learning projects while fulfilling FGCU's graduation requirement.
- Volunteer in underserved communities or non-clinical service organizations.
PA School Preparation
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Enroll in Seminar in Medicine I, II, and III (BSC 1930L, BSC 2930L, and BSC 3930L).
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Take advantage of mentoring from junior/senior pre-PA students through FGCU’s peer advising model.
- Plan ahead for personal statements, letters of recommendation, and PA program interviews.
- Refer to PAEA and individual PA program websites for application requirements and deadlines.
