In 54 days, the last three and a half years of sweat and sacrifice will finally lead up to the main event: taking the NAVLE. I’ve pretty much been studying non-stop (as I’m sure many fourth-years across the country are), and even with a plan laid out for myself I’m still feeling overwhelmed with the sheer amount of material I’ll need to recall when prompted. I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again – vets are amazing!
In the course of my studying, I’ve come to realize that studying for the NAVLE is pretty much like training for, and subsequently running, a marathon. With only 54 days left, I’m admittedly slightly less than confident about my training and ability to run this marathon.
The most difficult is keeping motivated in an overwhelming situation! Currently, I’m trying to find a balance between keeping my nose to the grindstone and the overwhelming desire to sleep. I decided to move through the material by body system/category for all the species, rather than going species by species. Currently, I’m finishing up infectious diseases. Finding the balance between clinics, study time, and real life has been tricky, but I think it’s working out. I actually find that I motivate myself with food and sleep. If I reach a goal or make a good amount of progress, I earn a nap. On really good days, I’ll grab a bite with a classmate (to maintain some normalcy). I also set a countdown on my phone to keep a fire under me on the days I’m less ambitious.
I’m usually not one to get test anxiety, but I think this may be the exception. I’m definitely looking forward to some well-earned relaxation afterward. Good luck, class of 2016!
