Preparing for USMLE I:   The Process

Dr. Sharon Silverman, Learning Specialist

March 10, 2005
4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
SSOM – Tobin Hall

There is no right way to study for the USMLE 1. One constant, however, is the importance of having a plan that fits you specifically.   Individuals have their unique styles and ways of learning.   Learn how to capture the best of your style to be prepared and succeed.

In this session, you will get an overview of a five part review process.   Specific examples will be presented giving you a preview of the more complete series of sessions.   After this overview, you will know if you want to participate in one or all of the process sessions that will be offered over subsequent weeks from March to May.

Lectures on the process of review aren't nearly as effective as hands on application activities.   If you choose to attend any or all of the five part series, you will discover how to make the best of your own study approach.

FIVE PART REVIEW PROCESS

This series will focus on helping you prepare for the board exam through a five part process outlined below. Each session involves a discussion of ways to prepare for the exam and an actual application of ideas and strategies.   You will not be listening to a lecture on exam prep but will be learning interactively and applying principles in the session.

The order of topics is arranged sequentially from beginning the process of preparation to the end when the exam date arrives. You may attend all of the sessions in order or pick and choose those that best meet your needs.   Each session will take place in the Teaching Learning Center and will be about one hour in length.

Reservations are requested for all sessions. To reserve a place, please contact Fran Alghini at 708-216-8166, falghini @lumc.edu, or stop by the Teaching Learning Center in Bldg. 120, Rm. 255.

  1. Get started by making a plan
    Wednesday, March 16 at 10:30 -11:00  
    Tuesday, March 29 at 10:30 – 11:30


    Before preparing for the exam, it is important to have a plan.   What is the best plan for you?   How can you make the best use of your learning strengths and overcome challenges?   What barriers need to be addressed?   What kind of timeline is best and how can so much material be reviewed effectively?   These questions and others will be discussed, and you will develop a review plan that fits you best.

  2. Review strategies that promote long term memory
    Tuesday, March 29 at 11:30 – 12:30
    Wednesday, April 6 at 11:30 – 12:30


    Some people spend a lot of time going over material but are still not well prepared.   Quantity versus quality of review will be discussed and specific strategies for moving from short term to long term memory will be presented. You will develop a set of review strategies that match your learning strengths and promote memory over time.

  3. Overcome the exam preparation slump
    Dates TBA (April/May)


    Even the best intentioned and most motivated learners experience slumps.   It's human nature.   What should you do when it happens?   How can you keep the slump from turning into an extended period of non-review?   You will learn how to accept the ebb and flow of exam preparation and discover ways to keep going through the difficult times.

  4. Reduce anxiety through stress management
    Dates TBA (April/May)


    Preparing for board exams is stressful and often leads to anxiety. Even the best prepared person has anxiety.   Some anxiety is good and necessary, but too much anxiety can be problematic and interfere with your ability to perform your best.   You will learn how to control anxiety and not let it control you.

  5. Make plans for the night before and the day of the exam
    Dates TBA (April/May)


    You've prepared the best you could.   You've applied the best learning and stress management strategies.   The big day is here!   What are you going to do the night before and the day of the exam?   We will discuss this and other ways to help you achieve on exam day.

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