Spinning Plates While Walking the Tightrope
Not everyone has experienced a “block” schedule before. This is where you have two to three classes at a time for three to four weeks. So, when you come to PA school, this type of setup might present some challenges. Every program is different, but most offer some sort of clinical medicine. This course is kind of like the classroom version of rotations. For instance, we had dermatology, OB/GYN and pulmonology all at once for four weeks, but as we are taking the finals a new class begins. Why is this type of layout tricky?
For our program, we may have two tests (midterm and final) per block. The final is typically comprehensive, which can be overwhelming because the midterm was over a week ago. The load seems immense; however, the material is still fresh. I mentioned before that new blocks begin as the old ones end. This is also a challenge because your ENT midterm can be the day after the OB/GYN final (true story). It is important to keep your head up, remember that the midterm material is still fresh and balance between cramming and progressive studying. It all seems insane in the moment but looking back provides assurance for the future.