Now, I know I have written a lot about this exam. This stupid test has become the bane of my budding medical career, halting my advancement and taking an extra year of my life merely to pass. At this point I can say with all sincerity that I hate the COMLEX.
That out of the way, my third experience was the best of the three. I arrived at my testing center in Bethesda, Maryland at 7:00 in the morning feeling not nearly as anxious as I thought I would, though my stomach still churned loudly while in the waiting room. An incredibly friendly elderly gentleman named Willie signed me in, scanned my ID card, took my fingerprints, and had me check my pockets and yarmulke just to make sure I was not sneaking in any information which could be used to cheat. Clearing this, I was shown to my cubicle (#10 this time), given a couple of plastic sheets and dry-erase markers, and invited to sit down. No sooner had I done so and begun the exam then the blessed sound of jackhammers filled the room - renovations to a building next door. Ah yes, a typical COMLEX experience.
As soon as the first question came up I was overwhelmed with a familiar feeling. I felt like I was at home in my office tackling practice questions. I relaxed, remembered my exam training, and started clicking. Things flowed. I could tell people were praying for me. Could this be the time I pass? My first 100 questions were done and I was offered my a break. I never take my intermediate breaks. I did break for lunch after four hours, however. I left the center, called my wife, and wolfed down some tuna and crackers - never have caffeine or simple sugars on test day!
The 2nd four hours were longer but not nearly as difficult as during my second COMLEX attempt. I kept up the pace but found myself, towards the sixth hour, zoning on the questions. I sat back, shook my head, took several seconds to breathe and looked at something else, anything else, other than the computer monitor. I said a quick prayer and dove back into the fray.
At the end of the eighth hour, after clicking the final answer and finishing the post-exam feedback questionnaire, I stood and stretched. I was alone in the testing room save a physician taking a recertification exam. I walked out exhausted but hopeful. Maybe, just maybe, this time would prove to be the last and I could finally move on to third year.
Or maybe not.
I don't know what the future holds. After three attempts, however, I can say that I have given it my all. Results come out May 2nd.
I will keep you posted.
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