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Dear AAPA Member,
Congratulations on having recently graduated from a PA training program! I remember the overwhelming transition from student to professional, and I understand the many learning opportunities and choices you have to make for your future as a pathologists’ assistant.
Having been a pathologists’ assistant for 37 years, I can say that qualified PA professionals make a difference wherever they work! With fewer than 100 certified when I graduated in 1983 to 2,541 as of the end of 2019, these individuals have not only become colleagues, but personal friends that I collaborate with daily. As one of over 160 recent program graduates, you might wish to learn more about the continuation beyond your “Student” membership in the AAPA.
Most recent graduates aren’t aware that you enter the ranks of AAPA “Fellow” member status, with all the privileges of a “Fellow” member, once you pass your Board of Certification (BOC) Exam (until then you are categorized as an “Associate” member). I can assure you that the PA community you enter bolsters your professionalism, your self-esteem, and ensures that PAs in the U.S., Canada, and now in multiple countries remain significant in the pathology and healthcare communities we practice.
Although your student liaison may have shared various benefits for continuation of “Fellow” membership, you might not have considered how your certified status is an attribute towards a bright and rewarding future! Membership in the AAPA, like the ASCP, is not required to maintain your PA(ASCP) credential. However, the AAPA is prepared to fully support you with a vibrant and growing PA community, PA-specific education, FREE CE opportunities included with your membership (60 over the course of 3 years) to fully maintain your PA(ASCP) credential, transfer of your AAPA-earned CE credits to your ASCP BOC transcript, and so much more.
Over the course of my career, I have had instilled in me the significance of continuing education and giving back to my profession. With the AAPA’s support, I have never felt alienated from my profession, my professional colleagues, or the necessity for improvement of my skills for the daily work I have chosen as my career. I cannot stress enough the value of being able to meet and network with other PAs who do what you do day in and day out, by attending our AAPA-sponsored CE conferences and choosing annual membership in the AAPA.
Best wishes,
Steve Suvalsky, MHS, MT(ASCP), PA(ASCP)CM
Membership Committee
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