If you are like me, then you prefer to study alone and aren’t interested in having a study partner. Personally, I never like to rely on others to get the job done.
Something else that held me back from this concept was the fact I had to go at someone else’s pace; whether that be too slow or too fast.
But, PA, NP, and med school is not the same as undergrad. I realized that having a study buddy was a great idea. Specifically, it creates four things: friendly competition, motivation, allows for a deeper understanding of the material, and provides a system of check and balances.
Competition forces you to push harder than you normally would. Seeing your partner ace his/her exam creates a little competition, which makes you want to study that much harder.
Nobody likes to be left behind, so this is an easy way to get motivated to do your best. Now, this should be kept in context. This should be friendly competition. No one likes a show off and no one likes someone who has massive ego.
Your study partner will also provide you with the motivation and the support you need. They know exactly what you are going through because they are on the same journey as yourself.
There will be times when you just don’t feel like studying. This is where your partner comes in. They will make you get in the mood whether you want to or not. There will also be times when your partner doesn’t feel like doing much either – this is when you can return the favor.
You will either fall into one of two categories: those who “get” it right away and those who don’t. If you understand and “get it”, then you can explain the concept to your partner.
When you explain and teach someone else, the material becomes engrained that much more. Teaching someone is a powerful way to learn.
If you fall into the other category, then you will have someone there to help guide you through the material. They will be able to teach you in a way your professor couldn’t. Either way, its a win-win situation.
Checks and balances are the final reason. You literally need to check each other. That can be with study time, homework, but most importantly, with life.
We are often so involved in our studies, that we forget to take time for ourselves. I personally feel like I am wasting time if I am not working every hour of the day. This can quickly become unhealthy.
Fortunately, I have been better at recognizing this and can back off if need be. But, I also have friends who tell me I need to step away; this helps keep my sanity. You are there to help each other work and to enjoy life. After all, you only get one.
These are the four reasons why you should consider a study partner in PA, NP, and med school. Believe me, I was never one to study with others, but I found it to be quite beneficial once I did.
People often think asking for help is a sign of weakness, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth.