Table 3. Themes of Students’ Qualitative Comments by Curricular Year (Classes of 2019 and 2020)
Medical School Year Stressors
M1 Adjusting tomedical school learning Final exams and blockexams Establishingsocial groups and separation from family
M2 Studying forUSMLE Step 1 Waiting forUSMLE Step 1 score Managinglong-distancerelationship
M3 Shelf exams Clinical rotation performance Applying to away rotations
M4 Residencyapplication and match process Planning forinternship and relocation Couples match and relationship planning
Int J Med Educ. 2026; 17:10-19; doi: 10.5116/ijme.6984.a86a