Hi everyone,
From this week into next month, many of you will take the In-Training Examination, aka the “ITE,” a marathon test of medical knowledge, from heartburn to heart attacks. The questions are realistic, similar to those you’ll see on the Boards.
The ITE is low stakes, meaning scores don’t affect promotion or graduation. But you still want to do well. Your percentile shows how your knowledge compares to other residents at your PGY level, and strong results predict success on the Boards. In a few weeks, you’ll get a detailed report to guide your studies. In our residency, scores average around the 70th percentile, but if your score is lower, don’t worry- your APD will work with you on a learning plan.
The official word is that you shouldn’t study for the ITE, which is true- don’t study just to ace the test. But all good doctors need to study, so we can distinguish VT from SVT and choose the right antibiotic for pneumonia. That’s why we read, attend conferences, and do practice questions.
On your test day, remember to pace yourself. The ITE is long, so get to bed early the night before, eat a good breakfast, wear comfy clothes, and embrace the opportunity to show what you’ve learned. You’re going to do great.
Enjoy your Sunday, everyone! I’m heading out into the sunshine.
Mark
P.S. Please join me in thanking Dr. Gary Désir, who announced last week that he will be stepping down as Department Chair in June. During his tenure, Dr. Désir has burnished our department’s reputation, led us through COVID, recruited exceptional trainees and faculty, and created a community that welcomes talented people of all backgrounds. It’s been a privilege to serve under Gary’s leadership.
P.P.S. What I’m reading:
Opinion | What the Olympics Can Teach Us About Excellence
Opinion | We’re Applying Lessons From Covid to Bird Flu. That’s Not Good.
Opinion | Lots of medals. Lots of skin colors. See the connection?