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Program expectations

Expectations are attributes, characteristics or behaviors that are not explicitly part of the profession`s core of knowledge and technical skills but are nevertheless required for success in this program and in the PA profession. All of the following are very important, but you are especially reminded to read and fully understand #7 – Professionalism.

  • COMMITMENT TO LEARNING: The ability to self-correct, and self-direct: to identify needs and sources of learning; and to continually seek new knowledge and understanding.
  • INTERPERSONAL SKILLS: The ability to interact effectively with patients, families, colleagues, other health care professionals, and the community and to deal effectively with cultural and ethnic diversity issues. The ability to show respect to classmates, faculty, patients, and colleagues.
  • COMMUNICATION SKILLS: The ability to communicate effectively (i.e., speaking, body language, reading, writing, listening) for varied audiences and purposes.
  • EFFECTIVE USE OF TIME & RESOURCES: The ability to obtain the maximum benefit from a minimum investment of time and resources.
  • USE OF CONSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK: The ability to identify sources of and seek out feedback and to effectively use and provide feedback for improving personal interaction.
  • PROBLEM SOLVING: The ability to recognize and define problems. Analyze data, develop and implement solutions, and evaluate outcomes.
  • PROFESSIONALISM: The ability to exhibit appropriate professional conduct and to represent the profession effectively. Treat people as they should be treated.
  • RESPONSIBILITY: The ability to fulfill commitments and to be accountable for actions and outcomes. Do what is right, legally and morally.
  • CRITICAL THINKING: The ability to question logically; to identify, generate, and evaluate elements of logical argument; to recognize and differentiate facts, illusions, assumptions, and hidden assumptions; and to distinguish the relevant from the irrelevant.
  • STRESS MANAGEMENT: The ability to identify sources of stress and to develop effective coping behaviors.

All students must understand the significance of the above and how academic success is predicated on mastery of understanding and application throughout this program and career as a PA.