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Opening up the review book was my first step. I’m in the 6th year of my recertification. I procrastinated my whole 5th year. I’ve been a PA for 19 years and did the Pathway II the last two recertifications. I specialize in HIV. I’m not fond of cardiology or pulmonary which make up 1/3 of the exam and not sure who decided to even make this the bulk of the exam. I’m not fond of standardized exams and hate what’s at stake if I fail. I’m struggling, as most of this is stuff I haven’t seen in decades. Glad to know I am not in a boat alone, that others have been or are where I’m at.
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A portion of my response:
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You’re definitely not alone.
I don’t mean to be rough, but the test doesn’t care what you think of it. Being angry that you have to take it only hurts you. If you’re studying while saying “this is dumb, why do I have to know this?” your brain will listen to you and you won’t remember any of it.
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The response back:
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Hi Brian,
1) You’re right
2) Thank you
I’m getting there. Looking forward to your lectures and praying for a passing grade!
I’m putting in the work.
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It’s true. No one cares what you think about the exam. No one cares that you’re mad or you think it’s dumb.
Let’s pretend you’re right. It is dumb. The whole thing makes no sense and it should be abolished.
It still doesn’t matter. You still have to take it. Sorry.
And like I told the PA above, having that underlying anger will make retention much harder. Humans learn best when they’re happy. They retain much less info when they are bored, tired, angry, or think that the material they are supposed to be studying is stupid.
The same goes for taking exams. You will do much better if you’re calm, relaxed, and confident rather than angry, anxious, and upset.
How do you do that? I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve I’ll be sharing this month in Physician Assistant Exam Scholar’s Newsletter. Can’t wait to see you inside.
Click here to get the info on signing up:
Physician Assistant Exam Scholar’s Newsletter
Brian Wallace
