By entering the RVU PA Program, students have made a conscience decision to become a professional. Professionals are highly educated individuals who practice within an ethical framework—as outlined by an oath or promise. The main components of professional behavior include honesty/integrity, reliability/responsibility, respect for others, compassion/empathy, self-improvement, self-awareness/knowledge of one’s limits, communication/collaboration skills, flexibility/adaptability, and altruism/advocacy. Students within the RVU PA Program will represent the Program in many different ways—within the classroom, within the University, or within the community—each offering ways in which to demonstrate the skills of a professional. The Guidelines for Ethical Conduct for the PA Profession illustrates more clearly the standards to which students will be held. These Guidelines can be found here.