HCE vs volunteering

[taywoodrow]

Hey!

So I am just around the corner from applying to PA school for the first time. I have a BS in psychology with a 3.78 cumulative GPA and a 3.47 science GPA. I'll have around 2000 hours of HCE in the ER of a level one trauma center and around 20 hours of shadowing by the time I begin applying.

Where I get concerned is about my volunteer hours. I know they aren't required at most schools, but I have heard that it can make or break your acceptance. I have around 550 volunteer hours, however the are from 3-6 years ago. I also do research at my university and will have around 100 hours for that by the time I apply.

My top 2 schools would be either the U of Utah or Denver. I hear they focus mainly on volunteer hours though. Do you think I would have a chance at getting into either school since my volunteer hours are pretty low? Do you have any recommendations for schools that I have a good chance of being accepted to? Also, any advice on what to do for resume building would be great too! I am trying to figure out some more volunteering hours, but working full time, being a full time student, and conducting research leaves little time for a set volunteering schedule!

 

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

Taylor

[EMEDPA]

I think you are in great shape. great gpa, above avg experience and volunteering. relax.

[MT2PA]

I had literally no volunteering hours and had no issues.  Deep breath.  You'll be fine.

[newton9686]

Agreed. Relax. Your in a great position to be accepted.