It’s no secret that PA school is rigorous. Given all the work that goes into the program, it may feel like your only option is to shut down and focus on studying independently.
While isolating yourself may feel like the most productive choice, there are so many benefits of creating friendships during PA school and maintaining the relationships you already have. (It’s literally proven to boost your health!)
Navigating this time in your life is stressful and creating a support system is crucial for your success and happiness during PA school. Here are some tips for creating and maintaining strong relationships while handling the demands that come with being in a PA in training.
1. Put yourself out there.
When you start your PA program, try to make new friends from the very first day. Remember, most people are coming into this experience not knowing anyone, and they’re also likely looking to meet people!
Go to any social events that come up, or ask a classmate for coffee. During breaks between classes, turn to the person next to you and just start talking! It can be scary to put yourself out there, but it’s worth it (and you’ll likely be well-received).
When you’re going to class and studying together for more than 40 hours per week, you’re bound to form close friendships. Having people to rely on, whether it’s for study sessions, shared note-taking, or even just to experience PA school with, enhances your experience tenfold.
2. Get together outside of class.
While a lot of the get-togethers with PA school friends will be academic, you’ll also have chances to take some much-needed breaks together. My PA school friends and I would have “Bachelor Mondays,” where we’d go to dinner and watch the Bachelor together.
Remember, these people have the exact same schedule you do. This means they’ll understand when you have a test coming up and need to shut down, or they’re available when you have a few lighter days.
3. Be up front with non-medical friends and family about your schedule.
Of course, you may also find yourself stressed over maintaining relationships with friends and family while in PA school. Whether they’re across the country or 20 minutes away, you’ll have less time than before to spend with them. Ideally before you even start PA school, be open with those closest to you about the demands you’ll face in the next two years.
While you’ll definitely have some breaks, your availability will be very limited. I remember studying my days away and watching friends from a distance as they were getting married, going on fun trips, and buying their first homes. The fact of the matter is you’ll miss out on some things, but this is temporary, and if you’re open with your loved ones they’ll be happy for you to join back in when you can.
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4. Don’t disappear completely.
Now, being busy doesn’t mean you should drop off the radar for two years. I recommend allotting time to make important phone calls or touch base with people in your life. Something as small as a text message telling someone you’re thinking of them can mean the world to them.
To this day, my closest friends and I schedule FaceTime calls. While it may seem unnecessary to schedule a phone call, it’s easy to forget to check in otherwise when you’re working so hard. Dedicating time to that relationship will help ensure you make the people in your life feel loved.
Additionally, take advantage of holiday breaks to spend time with loved ones, and be open with them about your new, short-term time restrictions.
5. Let people know ASAP if you can’t make it.
While it’s a privilege having so many people in life that want to spend time with you, there needs to be balance. This is especially important during PA school, when you’re on a tight schedule. Perhaps you have a family that isn’t very understanding when you miss a get together, or a friend who may not forgive you for skipping a birthday dinner because you had to study.
Whatever the case may be, it’s easy to feel spread thin during these times. Some people may just not understand the availability restrictions that come with being a PA student, so be prepared for that.
You can’t completely control how other people react to your schedule, but there are some things you can do that’ll help. For example, let people know as soon as you hear about an event you may not be able to attend. That way, nobody is surprised when your schedule gets the better of you.
Saying no can be a challenge, especially when it feels like you’re disappointing people. Remember this stage in life is temporary, and you’ll be able to make it up to them in two years when you’re a practicing PA with more control over your schedule. Also, remember you deserve to have people in your life that understand your commitments and are rooting for you throughout them. 🤝
The Bottom Line: It Takes a Village!
As I’m sure you already know by now, PA school is definitely a sacrifice! Of course, it’s beyond worth it and the time truly will fly by. Remembering the goal you’re working towards and establishing a good support system throughout the process is the best way to stay positive throughout PA school. It truly takes a village!
I’m still very close with all the friends I met in PA school, which is something I’m really thankful for! There’s nothing like test anxiety and study sessions to build lifelong friendships. PA school is hard, and I cannot imagine having done it without them. I’d say the same about those I knew prior to PA school, and all the friends and family that helped me through it.
The bottom line is, you don’t need to become isolated during PA school. Use these tips to maintain and build your support network during the next two years, and you’ll be on the path to personal and professional prosperity. Good luck!
💙 For tips about maintaining romantic relationships during PA school, check out this post!
