What Job or Volunteer Opportunities Should I Consider to Secure a PA Internship?
I’m currently a sophomore in college and I’m facing a challenge: I have no job or volunteer experience on my résumé. From what I’ve seen on this subreddit, the ideal time to apply for PA internships is during the summer before my junior year. Unfortunately, I’ve realized that I learned about the hiring timeline a bit too late, and now it looks like I’ll miss out on internship opportunities since my résumé is empty.
Additionally, I found out that the signups for my college’s VITA program wrapped up in October 2024, so I won’t have the chance to volunteer there for another year.
What relevant jobs or volunteer experiences should I pursue to strengthen my résumé ahead of next year’s internship applications? I know it’s a busy time for everyone, and I’d really appreciate any quick suggestions you can share!
One response
It’s great that you’re thinking ahead about gaining experience for your PA internship applications! Here are some ideas for jobs and volunteer experiences that can help strengthen your résumé:
Healthcare-Related Volunteer Work: Look for local hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes that may have volunteer opportunities. Even roles like patient transport or working in the gift shop can give you exposure to the healthcare environment and help you learn about patient care.
Community Health Programs: Many community organizations or public health departments might need volunteers for health fairs, vaccination clinics, or community outreach programs. These experiences can show your commitment to health and service.
Shadowing Professionals: Reach out to physician assistants or healthcare providers to see if you can shadow them. This will not only give you insight into their daily responsibilities but also strengthen your understanding of the PA role.
Research Assistant Positions: If your college has research opportunities, consider working as a research assistant in a health-related field. This can help you develop critical thinking and analytical skills that are valuable for a PA.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certification: If you’re interested and have the time, consider taking an EMT course. This not only provides hands-on medical training but also enhances your application significantly.
Crisis Hotlines or Support Groups: Volunteering with organizations that support mental health or crisis intervention can showcase your communication skills and empathy towards patients.
Campus Health Center: Check if your college has a health center that may need student workers for administrative support or peer health educator roles.
Lifeguarding or CPR Instructor: These roles involve safety and emergency response, which can be relevant to healthcare and demonstrate your skills in high-pressure situations.
Food Banks or Shelters: While they might not be directly related to healthcare, volunteering in these settings shows your commitment to serving others and may provide opportunities to interact with diverse populations.
Make sure to highlight any skills you acquire during these experiences, such as teamwork, communication, and empathy. Even if it doesn’t seem directly related to being a PA, showing dedication to helping others will set you apart in your applications. Good luck!