![]() Nevertheless, I took the bait, ignored my tried-and-true study habits and focused solely on reading the BCSC (finished only 5 books as a 1st year resident – plastics, cornea, glaucoma, lens, and retina) and attending lectures. I was always an independent/solo studier who would read, create study guides, and work through Qbanks on my own. Unfortunately, I can’t yet say that I am a "competent" ophthalmologist since the oral board exam is yet another two months away! But I am going to be as transparent as possible about my study strategy as well as how it impacted my OKAP performance in residency by year, followed by how I performed on the WQE.Īs a 1st year resident, I was told by senior residents and attendings, "Just read the BCSC and show up to lecture – you will do fine on the OKAP." Perhaps that worked for some individuals, but it was not at all how I was accustomed to studying in medical school. Not a natural test-taker, I didn't immediately score high on the OKAP, but by trial-and-error, I refined my study strategy to improve my knowledge-base and performance on both the OKAP and WQE. Wanting to rid myself of constantly feeling clueless, I endeavored early in training to consistently devote what little free time I had to learning the fundamentals of ophthalmology. The best times are still ahead!Īside from wanting to become a competent ophthalmologist, a huge motivator in studying for boards came from that empty feeling I often had as a 1st year resident when I saw an interesting patient only to realize I didn’t know anything about what I was actually looking at in the clinic or OR. When other ophthalmologists tell you that life gets better after training you should take them at their word. My wife and I enjoy introducing our children to local sports teams and activities around Lake Norman. My family and I now live in North Carolina where I work in private practice in the Charlotte area. ![]() I graduated medical school from the University of Iowa (2013), followed by residency (2017) and fellowship (Glaucoma, 2018) at Indiana University School of Medicine - both excellent training programs with many outstanding mentors. A little background before I delve into my strategy over the years. ![]() Based on previous Qbank performance, I was asked by OphthoQuestions to provide study tips for the OKAP/WQE exams. ![]()
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