Michelle Heinan on Becoming a PAEA Volunteer

Are you interested in national service and leadership and playing a critical role in helping advance PA education and profession? We encourage you to apply to become a 2022 PAEA Volunteer! The application cycle closes tomorrow, October 29, at 11:59 p.m. ET.

We recently spoke with Michelle Heinan, Professor of Physician Assistant Studies & Compliance Specialist at Lincoln Memorial University School of Medical Sciences, about her experience serving on the PAEA Grants & Scholarship Review Committee. Michelle has served PAEA and the profession as a volunteer intermittently over two decades.

Keep reading to learn more about Michelle’s experience and her advice for others looking to get involved.   

Why did you decide to become a PAEA volunteer? 

I enjoyed my time working as a volunteer in the past. The Grants and Scholarship opening came up, and with my strong interest in research, I felt that it would be a great fit. I thought the committee sounded interesting and like something I would enjoy. 

What has been the best or most rewarding part of your volunteer experience? 

The best part of being a volunteer is working with the PAEA staff, other educators, and contributing to the profession.

Have you formed meaningful relationships or valuable connections as a volunteer?  

You get to know more people when you interact in different roles and committees. These people are folks you can reach out to if you have questions, mentor, learn from, network, and collaborate with.

Looking back on your experience, what are you most proud of? 

Being nominated by PAEA to the ARC-PA to become a commissioner was an incredible honor.

What are your tips for submitting a successful volunteer application? 

First, find something that you are passionate about and have an interest in doing. Take the time to apply for openings. Let your passion shine in your application! Review the qualifications they are looking for and discuss how your background fits with those qualifications in your application.

What would you say to a fellow member looking to get involved in national service with PAEA? 

I would encourage everyone to get involved. It is a great opportunity to meet people, hone your skills, and do something to advance the profession.  To me, it is a good feeling knowing you are involved in your profession.

Learn more and apply to become a 2022 volunteer today.