PPASO to Gap Year - Amy Kavi, former Co-President

Hey everyone! My name is Amy Kavi and I recently graduated from UC San Diego with a B.S. in Neurobiology and minor in Global Health. I’ve been working full-time as a Dermatology Medical Assistant since June. I plan to apply in the upcoming 2026 CASPA cycle! Throughout undergrad, I was actively involved in the UCSD community and pre-health student groups. I completed most of my prerequisite coursework at UCSD and Palomar Community College. For my PCE and HCE, I previously worked as a medical assistant in holistic medicine, a clinic intern in neurosurgery, a hospital intern, and a volunteer in street medicine. Throughout these experiences over the years, I’ve learned some tips for success I’d love to share with you all!

Undergrad advice:

• Focus on school. You can always take an extra gap year to gain more patient care experience, but if your grades start to slip during undergrad, it can be difficult to bring that GPA up after graduating. 

• Don’t take on more than you can handle. There’s a delicate balance between pushing yourself for success and burning out. 

• Start early and get involved. I recommend attending PPASO meetings early in undergrad to learn more about the profession and PA program admissions requirements. Take advantage of opportunities like the PA mentorship program as a sophomore or junior to develop long-term relationships with your mentors. Join other clubs as well and find your passions both within and outside of the medical field!

• Ask for help! As students pursuing the PA profession, we are all about collaboration and team efforts. The PPASO community welcomes everyone with open arms, and your pre-PA peers are always available to help you. Ask questions about classes, PCE, life advice, anything! I wouldn’t be where I am today without the help of my peers.

• Have fun! College goes by incredibly fast. Prioritize self-care and hobbies, build relationships with friends, and try something new! 

Gap year advice:

• Find a job you truly LOVE! Don’t take a job just for PCE. 

• Keep an open mind. You never know what experiences might come your way and what you may learn from them. The beauty of the medical field is that we are constantly learning, no matter where we are in our careers!

• Figure out your “why?” You spend years preparing to apply for PA school and gaining patient care hours. Take time to reflect on your experiences and why this field is for you. Tying your experiences together into a cohesive story will help you when applying. 

• Join GAPPA! Missing that Pre-PA community after graduating? GAPPA, the Graduate Affiliation of Pre-Physician Associates, was created by UCSD PPASO alumni to support students in their gap years before PA school. Check out @gappa.official on Instagram!

The transition from undergrad to post-grad can be hard. From moving back home, missing PPASO, and not being in classes anymore, my life has suddenly shifted quite a bit. But, I am absolutely loving the change and I feel more ready to apply to PA school! Taking a gap year was the best decision I made for myself in my pre-PA journey. I’m gaining hands-on PCE, developing relationships with patients and providers, volunteering on the weekends, and learning more about the healthcare system and what role I want to play in it. To the future healers and medical professionals of the world -- I wish you the best! You got this!

For any questions or just to chat, please feel free to reach out! 

Instagram: @amykavi 

Email: amykavi@gmail.com