HanSolo

The appeal to ignorance logical fallacy doesn't really work in this scenario. Data would be helpful because the answer isn't clear. We didn't ask if unicorns exist...

Despite what everyone else told me, I didn't want to be at a "disadvantage" and not have textbooks. Let me tell you, textbooks are a complete waste of money. The only exception is perhaps a good anatomy book like Netter's. If you feel so inclined to get books, I would suggest Pance Prep Pearls, Surgical Recall, etc. Be smart - don't be like Han and end up with a massive paperweight named Harrison.

So, I'll disagree with Rev on this one. There's pretty much a residency in any specialty a PA can work in, and in my area of the country there are also plenty of large hospital programs that have their own new PA "bootcamp" so to speak. A 3-6ish month, full-time, paid training period that gets you up to speed. Also, it's not like you don't have any experience now. There are multiple means of advancing your education once you become a PA. Doors will not be closed to you because you didn't get an associates degree and work for a few years in allied health before becoming a PA. Plus, by the time you actually start a program you'd have about 2+ years experience. Smart, dedicated individuals with less experience than mid-career folks can and do excel in PA school and beyond. Overall, it is far more about assessing the individual's potential. A good application and interview process should be able to tease that out.

Op - what's your current PCE?

I often interpret this question as, "why/how would you fit in here?" Relate your previous and current experiences to the potential program, job, place, whatever. Make it seem like you already belong, they just hadn't found you yet. I think a mix of vocational and non-vocational topics are fine, but I wouldn't only talk about your cat or your skiing skills.

Nah. Taking a class like Orgo during the summer is basically a full-time job since you usually have 3 hrs of lecture in the morning with 3 hrs of lab in the afternoon. Then you have to go home and study. Sounds a bit like PA school!

You might be able to find decent rent in Petaluma, but it's worth paying the extra rent money to live close to school versus sitting in traffic. Also, you might have to get roommates.

Some Bs are fine. Do your best to get at least A- in Orgo or Biochem, but don't put too much pressure on yourself. Not much higher than a 3.5? You'll be fine if other aspects of your application work. I think I had around a 3.4 cumulative GPA and received interviews from the "big names." Planning on taking at least a year or two off after graduation? You can always take one class at a time while working to boost the GPA if need be.

I have no experience in this, but you've got nothing to lose but time. If the application is quick I would say might as well.

Ha - I see your point of view but feel the opposite. Harder for me to eat healthy when food is free because I just eat way too much. If I am paying for something I tend to avoid unhealthy foods.

Sounds like you have already sat down with an excel spreadsheet, whiteboard or whatever and analyzed the opportunity cost of the situation. Will you have to move? Personally, I would strike the best balance between what is best for you and your family. For example, if there is a local NP program and not PA, then the choice seems pretty clear (or vice versa). In the end, I don't think a lot of people care about the letters behind your name as long as you are competent and respectful. The internet is fully of the good, the bad, and the ugly. Best of luck with your decision.

Does program A start in January, too? If not, then even if B is more expensive, the January start gives you 6-8 months extra earning power compared to the alternative. Save save save and pay off those loans.

Could you live with your parents while attending B, or is that too far?

Ultrasound is the tech of the future. Lots of research and funding being poured into it right now. Quick, easy, cheap and no radiation. CT, MRI, etc. will only be used for special cases. Not sure when it will change but it is inevitable. Excited to see the new applications of it!