bjl12 Posted April 24, 2012 Share Posted April 24, 2012 I recently joined an organization that works with people with disabilities (this is a paid job). I am a community based support staff: I work directly with people with various disabilities (down syndrome, autism, etc). This is clearly NOT HCE, but I'm wondering if anyone knows whether this job (or line of work for that matter) will do much for me in the PA application process. Prior to this I have volunteer experience at a local state psychiatric hospital, working there as a therapist's aide. Once again, these positions are clearly NOT HCE, but my goal in PA school is the position of psychiatric PA. Any idea if these experiences will help/matter? Some local schools state that HCE AND Human Services volunteer/work count as "experience." However, I'm wondering whether HCE weighs more heavily than human services. Thoughts? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Administrator rev ronin Posted April 24, 2012 Administrator Share Posted April 24, 2012 How much weight it is given will vary from program to program. You need to call the ones you really care about and ask, if you can't find a clear answer on their website. Overall, it's certainly better than e.g. retail sales or truck driving experience for getting into PA school. :-) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
winterallsummer Posted April 24, 2012 Share Posted April 24, 2012 I think HCE > human services > volunteer work. Try to get some clearly defined HCE and if you "can't" then try to volunteer at a hospital on the side. I think your job is good but nothing beats black and white HCE. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
beautifulday Posted April 24, 2012 Share Posted April 24, 2012 Ask the programs you're interested in. I would consider your new job HCE, but some may not. I work as an associate psychologist at a residential facility for people with developmental disabilities, and I put this as my only HCE on CASPA. I don't work as a direct care staff, but I do spend direct time with the residents and a lot of time in discussions about medical/psychiatric issues. I got 4 interview offers and I start PA school in August. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bjl12 Posted April 25, 2012 Author Share Posted April 25, 2012 I work as an associate psychologist at a residential facility for people with developmental disabilities, and I put this as my only HCE on CASPA. I got 4 interview offers and I start PA school in August. I welcome this news with the utmost warmth :] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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