Top 5 Essential Tips to Stay Organized in PA School

PA School • May 24, 2023

In this video, we’ll share the top 5 tips to stay organized in PA school.

These tips will help you stay on track and get the most out of your studies. From making to-do lists to setting priorities, these tips will help you stay on track and reach your academic goals!

Top 5 Tips to Stay Organized in PA School

PA school can be an overwhelming experience for students. The excitement of getting accepted into the program quickly gives way to the reality of the demanding curriculum. Staying organized becomes crucial to manage the workload effectively and achieve success. In this article, we will discuss the top five tips to stay organized in PA school.

Create a Schedule

One of the most effective tips to stay organized in PA school is to create a schedule. Allocate time for attending classes, study blocks, completing assignments, and personal time. Time blocking is a valuable technique that allows you to manage your time effectively. By setting aside dedicated time for each activity, you can ensure that you stay on track and accomplish your tasks. Remember to create a schedule that is realistic and achievable, considering the hectic nature of PA school.

Break Large Tasks into Smaller Pieces

Large tasks can be overwhelming and lead to burnout if not managed properly. To avoid this, break down complex assignments or study materials into smaller, more manageable pieces. The Pomodoro Technique can be a useful strategy for studying. It involves studying for 30 minutes and then taking a 15-minute break. Repeat this cycle four times and then take a 30-minute break. This technique helps maintain focus, minimizes burnout, and enhances knowledge retention. Additionally, reviewing the material the next day before starting a new subject can further reinforce your learning.

Seek Help When Needed

Don’t hesitate to seek help when you need it. Your professors, faculty, and classmates are there to support you. If you’re struggling with assignments or exams, reach out to someone who can assist you. Many programs offer academic support services, and external resources such as Posh PA can provide academic strategy guidance. Remember that asking for help is not a sign of failure but a proactive step towards your success. Take advantage of the support system available to you.

Prioritize Personal and Self-Care

Amidst the demanding schedule of PA school, it’s crucial to prioritize personal and self-care. Neglecting self-care can lead to burnout, which can affect your performance as a student and future PA. Make time for activities that bring you joy, exercise, meditation, spending time with loved ones, and engaging in hobbies. By incorporating self-care into your routine, you will maintain balance, reduce stress, and enhance your overall well-being.

Regularly Evaluate and Adjust

Staying organized requires continuous evaluation and adjustment. As your schedule and responsibilities change throughout PA school, it’s important to regularly review your plans and make necessary adjustments. Take some time every week, preferably on Sundays, to reflect on your schedule’s effectiveness. Identify what’s working and what needs improvement, and plan ahead for the following week. By staying adaptable and proactive, you can ensure that your organizational strategies align with your evolving needs.

In conclusion, staying organized in PA school is crucial for success. By creating a schedule, breaking tasks into smaller pieces, seeking help when needed, prioritizing self-care, and regularly evaluating your strategies, you can navigate the demands of PA school more effectively. Remember, PA school is a challenging but temporary phase in your journey towards becoming a practicing PA. Stay organized, seek support, and prioritize your well-being to excel academically and thrive as a future healthcare professional.

Also read: Patient Care vs Healthcare Experience Explained

About me:

I’m Michele Neskey, aka The Posh PA. Welcome to my YouTube channel! My mission is to provide personalized guidance, education, and motivation to build confidence and promote wellness for aspiring physician assistants and beyond.   

Having been a PA for 17+ years and helped hundreds of students gain acceptance into PA school,  I understand the admissions process. I know what they are looking for, and I can help you tailor every component to make you shine, giving you the BEST chance of getting accepted to a program.  But it doesn’t end there. I create personalized plans for PA students and practicing PAs including test-taking strategy for the PANCE, contract negotiations, and tools to overcome and prevent provider burnout. 

My goal is to get you into a physician assistant (PA) school & survive the rigorous program, help you prevent burnout as a practicing PA, and help you take care of yourself so you can be the best version of YOU for your patients, family, and most importantly YOU!