Prospective Perfusion Student Forum Part 1: From Application to Graduation
With the latest installment of the Prospective Perfusion Student Forum coming up in March, now is the perfect time to look back at the insights from the inaugural session. Last September, Perfusion.com launched its first-ever quarterly Prospective Perfusion Student Forum, drawing in over 200 aspiring perfusionists eager to map their future in this life-saving field. Sponsored by the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) Perfusion Program, the event featured dynamic presentations from industry experts Scott Sanderson and Carla Maul.
In this blog series, we start with Scott’s compelling roadmap, guiding attendees from application to graduation. Stay tuned for part two, where Carla will tackle the transition from graduation to employment!
What Is Perfusion?
Scott Sanderson, MPS, CCP, LP, the Program Director, Associate Professor, and Staff Perfusionist at the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Division of Clinical Perfusion, began his presentation with a fundamental question: What is perfusion? He emphasized the importance of understanding this field before applying to a perfusion program, stating,
“Programs want to know how much you know about perfusion. Do you understand what you’re getting yourself into?”
While perfusionists are known for operating heart-lung machines during cardiac surgery, the field has expanded. Today, they play key roles in ECMO, VADs, blood management, oncology surgeries, and interventional radiology. Emerging areas include organ retrieval, administration, and research.
For most, the journey into perfusion isn’t linear; it often begins with aspirations for other medical roles. If this sounds like your story, don’t worry—it’s typical. Scott encouraged participants to deepen their understanding of the field, stressing that a solid grasp of its evolving responsibilities is vital for success in both applications and practice.
Pre-Application: What to Know
Applying to a perfusion school requires careful planning. Before starting your application, consider these key factors to ensure you’re fully prepared.
1. Know Your Source
Not all information about perfusion programs is reliable. Always verify details through official sources like program websites and admissions offices to avoid misinformation.
2. Know the Pre-Requisites
Each program has specific academic requirements. Some require a set number of credit hours, while others focus on course completion, meaning you must pass certain classes regardless of credit hours. Understanding these differences ensures you meet the eligibility criteria.
3. Know the Dates
Application deadlines vary, with many between December and January. Some programs offer two admission cycles per year, while others use rolling admissions, where early applicants have a better chance of acceptance. Knowing your program’s process helps you apply strategically.
4. Know the Degree
Perfusion programs offer post-baccalaureate certificates and master’s degrees, both requiring a bachelor’s and similar in length. While salaries are comparable, a master’s may open doors to leadership, research, and education, while a certificate provides a direct path into the workforce. Choose based on your career goals.
5. Know the Model of Training
Perfusion programs vary in their training approach. Some provide all training within their own facilities, offering a consistent and structured experience. Others include rotations at affiliate hospitals, exposing students to different clinical environments. Networking opportunities may also differ—programs with external rotations can expand professional connections, while centralized programs may be ideal for those who prefer to stay in one location.
6. Know the Cost of Living and Tuition
Tuition costs are fairly consistent across programs, but living expenses vary. Consider housing, transportation, and daily costs when planning finances and student loans.
By considering these factors, you can choose a perfusion program that aligns with your goals and financial situation.
Application: What to Expect
Once you’ve researched programs and ensured you meet the prerequisites, the next step is putting together a strong application. While most programs evaluate similar criteria, the way they assess applicants can vary. Understanding what each school values will help you present yourself as a competitive candidate.
1. GPA and Transcripts
Most programs assess your overall GPA, but many also consider specific categories like math and science GPA or prerequisite GPA. GPA calculators can help you determine these scores, but official transcripts are essential for verification.
2. Preference Factors
Some programs give preference based on factors to applicants based on:
- Where you went to college
- Your state of residence
- Prior work experience
Understanding a program’s specific criteria can help you strengthen your application.
3. Experience Matters
Applicants generally fall into two categories: recent undergraduates and those with significant medical experience. Programs recognize the strengths of both. Strong candidates often demonstrate a balance—either medical professionals who have taken rigorous courses recently or undergraduates who have gained relevant hands-on experience.
4. Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your chance to showcase who you are beyond your resume. The most impactful statements feel authentic and genuinely reflect your motivations and experiences. Avoid generic or overly polished narratives—focus on telling your unique story.
5. Shadowing and Conversations
Some programs require shadowing hours, while others may accept conversations with practicing perfusionists instead. Since shadowing can be difficult to secure, check each program’s requirements and plan accordingly.
6. References
Programs may require references from specific sources, such as medical professionals or undergraduate professors. Be sure to verify the number and type of references needed for each program.
By understanding these key aspects, you can tailor your application to highlight your strengths and meet program expectations effectively.
Application: What Stands Out
When it comes to applying for perfusion school, certain elements can set you apart from other candidates and enhance your chances of acceptance.
Live Interview (In-Person or Virtual)
Reaching the live interview stage—whether in-person or virtual—provides a unique opportunity to stand out. This is your chance to showcase your communication skills, professionalism, and ability to handle pressure.
For example; Instead of saying,
“I got a job as an anesthesia tech in an OR.”
Say,
“Recognizing the need for more medical experience, I became an anesthesia tech in an OR, where I observed acute care settings and worked closely with perfusionists. This deepened my passion for the field.
Grades and Experience
Admissions committees look for candidates who demonstrate both strong academic performance and relevant medical experience. Bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills shows you’re prepared for the challenges of perfusion.
Perfusion Knowledge
Understanding the realities of a career in perfusion is crucial. Unlike general medical school graduates, who may branch into various fields, 100% of perfusion graduates enter critical care settings. Familiarity with the demands and rewards of perfusion—beyond operating the heart-lung machine—indicates your readiness for this specialized field.
Handling Stressful Environments
Programs want to see how you cope with high-stakes situations. Effective stress management is key in critical care roles, making it a significant evaluation point.
Motivation and Personal Fit
Programs seek individuals who are not only capable but also deeply motivated. Your enthusiasm for the field, your ability to articulate why perfusion is the right path for you, and how a program aligns with your goals can make you stand out.
Contacting the Program
Reaching out to programs before applying can help you understand their culture, values, and what makes them unique. Connecting with faculty or students gives you insight into how a program can help you grow—and helps them see how you’d be a great fit.
Application: The Decision Process
After applying, you’ll receive one of three responses:
- Acceptance – Secure your spot with a deposit.
- Waitlist – Stay hopeful; spots may open soon.
- Denial – Seek feedback, gain more experience, and reapply stronger.
Each program has its own timeline, so decisions may arrive at different times.
If you’re placed on a waitlist, there’s still a chance for admission if a spot opens. If accepted, you’ll need to submit a deposit to secure your place, which typically goes toward tuition. Programs will give you a set timeframe to accept or decline the offer.
Before starting, you’ll need to complete essential requirements, including submitting vaccination records, undergoing a drug screen, and passing a background check. Ensuring these are in order ahead of time can help avoid delays.
No matter the outcome, stay proactive—if denied, seek feedback, gain additional experience, and consider reapplying. If accepted, prepare for the exciting journey ahead in perfusion school!
Keys to Student Success in Perfusion School
Succeeding in perfusion school requires discipline, consistency, and the right mindset. Treating your education like a full-time job—dedicating focused time daily—sets the foundation for success.
Consistent Study Habits
Rather than cramming for hours, develop a steady study routine. The material is dense, and regular engagement helps retain information more effectively.
Maintaining Perspective
Remember why you’re here: to help patients. Keeping this in mind can keep you motivated through intense coursework and clinical training.
Balancing Didactic and Clinical Learning
Success requires mastering both didactic study and clinical practice. Excelling in one without the other can leave gaps in your training, so approach both with equal dedication.
Embrace Learning
Be a reader and a consumer of information—stay curious and engaged. Most importantly, don’t fear making mistakes. The best place to learn is in the lab, where errors become lessons that shape you into a skilled perfusionist.
Laying the Foundation for a Future in Perfusion
Becoming a perfusionist is a challenging but rewarding journey that requires dedication, preparation, and a deep understanding of the field. By carefully researching programs, crafting a strong application, and developing the right mindset for success, aspiring perfusionists can set themselves up for a fulfilling career.
What comes next? Whether you’ve been accepted, denied, or waitlisted, our COMPLIMENTARY Prospective Perfusion Student Forum on March 25 will guide you through your next steps. Learn how to prepare for your program if admitted or strengthen your candidacy if you plan to reapply. Don’t miss this opportunity—register today!
