When it comes to balancing PA school and motherhood is – you’re not just juggling assignments; you’re handling snack times, homework, and everything in between. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. In this post, we’re picking up where we left off in “What We Wish We Knew Before Starting PA School.” Dive into what it really takes to survive (and thrive!) as a mom in PA school, with real stories and practical tips.
1. Time Management Will Make or Break You
PA school is intense—intense in ways that can catch you off guard. Imagine juggling multiple courses, clinical rotations, and exam prep all at once. It’s not like undergrad where you might be able to coast for a week or two. Here, everyday matters, and managing your time is critical.
“Time management is key! Be prepared to sacrifice weekends and late nights to study.”
What to Expect: You’ll need to learn to prioritize and stick to a strict schedule. Balancing your classes, clinical rotations, and personal life can feel impossible at times. Using planners or apps like Trello or Google Calendar can keep you on track, but don’t expect to avoid stress entirely.
Survival Tips:
- Invest in a detailed planner or use a task management app.
- Break down study materials into manageable chunks—study in blocks rather than cramming.
- Learn to say no to social events that will eat up your much-needed downtime.
2. Parenting in PA School is Rare
Finding a parent mentor for most graduate programs is rare, and medical programs are especially difficult. One mom enrolled in the DPT program shares her experience locating other parents to connect with.
There’s not a whole lot of advice out there. In my class of nearly 50 students, there are 3 parents including myself – 2 moms and 1 dad.
~Ashley
What to Expect: PA school can feel isolating for parents due to the low number of peers who share similar responsibilities. Finding other parent-students can be a source of comfort and support, but it’s also important to communicate your unique challenges with faculty and classmates.
Survival Tips:
- – Seek out parent support groups within the PA community.
- – Don’t hesitate to discuss challenges with faculty and peers.
3. Drama is Real—Don’t Expect It to Be a “Family” Atmosphere
You’ve probably heard that PA school is like one big family—students, faculty, and preceptors working together in harmony. But in reality, it can feel more like a dysfunctional family. There’s drama, and it’s not just coming from your fellow students. Faculty and preceptors can add their own layer of stress, and navigating these relationships can be a challenge.
“The drama is real! Not just from students but faculty and preceptors alike. I wasn’t expecting that after hearing so many people say it’s like ‘one big family.’ A dysfunctional family indeed.”
What to Expect: Unfortunately, the pressures of PA school can lead to tensions among students and even between faculty and preceptors. You’re all working under tight deadlines and high expectations, which can sometimes lead to conflicts or misunderstandings.
Survival Tips:
- Keep professional boundaries: Focus on your goals and stay above the drama, even when it’s tempting to get involved.
- Be adaptable: Different preceptors and faculty will have different teaching styles. Be open to feedback, but don’t let it discourage you.
- Choose your inner circle wisely: Surround yourself with supportive classmates who will lift you up, not add to the stress.
4. Imposter Syndrome Will Sneak Up on You
No matter how well-prepared you are or how much experience you have, imposter syndrome can creep in. You’ll look around and feel like everyone else has it together, and that maybe you don’t belong. Here’s the truth: almost everyone feels that way at some point. It’s just part of the process.
“Imposter syndrome will hit hard at some point but remember—you’re there for a reason.”
What to Expect: The feeling that you’re not good enough or that you don’t belong in PA school will probably come up at some point. Whether it’s during a tough clinical rotation or after a particularly challenging exam, imposter syndrome is real. But don’t let it hold you back.
Survival Tips:
- Acknowledge it: Recognize that imposter syndrome is common and doesn’t reflect your actual abilities.
- Celebrate your achievements: Keep track of your wins, no matter how small, to remind yourself why you’re in PA school.
- Lean on your support system: Talk to classmates, mentors, or friends who can remind you of your strengths and help you push through self-doubt.
5. Life Happens—And It Will Test You
You might think the hardest part of PA school is the academics, but the truth is, life doesn’t stop just because you’re in an intense program. In fact, life has a way of throwing everything at you right when you least need it—home repairs, car issues, family emergencies. It’s not just about passing exams; it’s about juggling life and still showing up.
“So many things went wrong. From multiple home repairs, car issues, and a family death. PA school really tested me but in it, I realized my resilience.”
What to Expect: PA school will test your resilience in more ways than one. The real challenge comes when your personal life and academic life collide, and you have to find a way to keep going. You’ll need to dig deep to find the strength to get through it.
Survival Tips:
- Plan for the unexpected: Whether it’s financial setbacks or personal issues, try to have a backup plan in place.
- Stay organized: Keeping a clear schedule and being proactive can help prevent chaos when life throws curveballs.
- Reach out for support: Whether it’s classmates, mentors, or a counselor, don’t be afraid to lean on others when life gets overwhelming.
6. The Clinical Year Will Change You
The transition from the didactic phase to the clinical year is like night and day. Suddenly, you’re not just reading about patient care, you’re responsible for it. The stakes feel higher, and your decisions directly impact real lives. The pressure can be enormous, but this is where you see how much you’ve grown.
“During your clinical year, you’ll realize that PA school isn’t just about book knowledge—it’s about becoming a confident healthcare provider.”
What to Expect: You’ll spend long hours on your feet during clinical rotations, and you’ll be pushed to your limits. Each rotation will throw something new at you, and you’ll learn to adapt quickly. The hands-on experience is invaluable, but it will also be one of the most challenging parts of PA school.
Survival Tips:
- Be proactive: ask questions, get involved, and learn from every patient interaction.
- Keep a rotation journal to document clinical pearls, feedback, and growth.
- Practice self-reflection—take note of the skills and knowledge you’re gaining daily.
7. You Will Be Tired—All the Time
Here’s the part nobody likes to talk about—you will be exhausted. PA school is a full-time commitment, and it often feels like there’s no off switch. You’ll pull long study hours, and the mental fatigue can feel just as taxing as the physical demands. The need for sleep versus study time will be a constant internal battle.
“Be prepared to be exhausted. There are days when it feels impossible to juggle everything.”
What to Expect: You’ll be tempted to push through on minimal sleep, but you’re no good to your patients or your studies if you’re running on fumes. Self-care is not a luxury in PA school—it’s a necessity.
Survival Tips:
- Prioritize sleep—pulling all-nighters will affect your ability to think critically.
- Incorporate stress management practices like yoga, meditation, or simple stretching routines.
- Take short breaks during study sessions to recharge your mind.
8. Expect Information Overload
The volume of material you’ll cover in PA school is like drinking from a firehose. One week you’ll be learning about anatomy and pharmacology, and the next you’re knee-deep in clinical skills and procedures. The information comes at you fast, and the expectation is that you absorb it all and be able to apply it quickly.
“You will be overwhelmed by the amount of information thrown at you during your didactic year.”
What to Expect: It’s not just about learning the material; it’s about learning it fast and retaining it. The exams will test not just memorization but how well you can apply clinical reasoning under pressure. Having a strategy for organizing your notes and retaining critical information is essential.
Survival Tips:
- Use tools like Anki flashcards or Quizlet to retain important medical facts.
- Set aside dedicated time each week for reviewing old material—PA school builds on itself.
- Stay ahead of assignments and tests. If you fall behind, catching up is extremely difficult.
9. Wishing You Had Found the PA Path Sooner
Many students, after learning more about the PA profession, wish they had started earlier:
I don’t mind the hard work since I know that it is temporary. I just wish I had known about the PA profession sooner. That way I would not have wasted so much time in classes I did not need during undergrad.
~Tangie
What to Expect: Many students, after learning about the PA profession, regret not discovering it earlier. The realization of wasted time in unnecessary coursework can be frustrating, but it’s important to focus on making the most of your path now.
Survival Tip
- If you’re considering the PA path, start exploring prerequisites and shadowing opportunities early.
- Take time to research career paths to avoid unnecessary coursework.
- Start exploring prerequisites and shadowing opportunities early.
- Research your career path to avoid unnecessary coursework.
Final Thoughts:
Yes, being a mom in PA school is tough—but you’ve got this! Remember, it’s all about finding your groove and leaning on your support system. Got any questions or tips?
Drop them in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe for more tips on managing PA school and mom life! Download our QuickStart Guide that covers all of the essentials for surviving pa school w/ kids.
