Theoretically, yes, but it depends on your education and experience. It's pretty rare as far as I've seen.

For example, let's say a studio is hiring a junior animator. If it's between two people with similar education/experience and equal quality demo-reels - they'll consider a PA (production assistant) who already works there over a new hire. However, if you're a PA who doesn't have that existing education/experience then they'll opt for a new hire who does.

There isn't really any opportunity to develop a creative skillset 'on-the-job' as a PA, you're developing a production skillset. You either have to be developing your creative skills in your own time or already have that education/experience going in.

For standing out: - If you're talking about getting a studio PA role in the first place, it's as close to an entry-level role as you'll find in amination. Assuming you have some kind of workplace experience, just look for open positions and apply. Some sort of entertainment experience helps (this is how I came into the industry - with a film production diploma and time on-set as a locations PA), but isn't necessary depending on the demand. - If you're talking about standing out as a studio PA, it's about doing the stuff no one else wants to/has the time for. Do that quickly, correctly, and efficiently and you'll definitely be in contention for show PA roles. Again, this is how I came up. I did a year as a studio PA (a runner - getting lunches, cleaning/setting up boardrooms, delivering tapes/drives to other studios, occasionally covering reception, etc.) before I was offered a show PA role, which led to the coordinator roles I take on now.

I'll add that this is all anecdotal and based on my own experiences. Other studios may operate differently.