The Challenge of Finding a PA to Shadow — And Why It’s Worth It

Starting the journey to become a Physician Assistant means many things, but one of the trickiest early steps has definitely been finding a PA to shadow. It’s not as simple as just asking and getting a yes, at least, that’s been my experience so far.

I’ve reached out to a variety of clinics and hospitals, and while some respond right away, others don’t get back at all. I understand how busy healthcare professionals are, but it does require persistence and patience to keep trying. Crafting emails that are professional yet genuine is an art, and I’m still figuring out how to strike the right tone.

Scheduling shadowing hours also requires flexibility, especially balancing school, work, and life commitments. Beyond just the logistics, I want to shadow PAs who are approachable and willing to share their experiences, because learning is so much richer when you connect with your mentor on some level.

Despite the challenges, I know shadowing is an essential part of preparing for PA school and understanding the realities of the profession. It’s teaching me resilience and determination, which are skills I’ll carry with me not only through this process but into my future career.

If you’re starting this part of your journey, my advice is to stay patient, be professional, and don’t hesitate to follow up politely. The right opportunity will come — and when it does, it will make all the effort worth it.

With love and good health,

Teagirlmed ⋆⭒˚.⋆🪐 ⋆⭒˚.⋆