In 1999, Dr. Reede stated in a CORR article entitled, “Predictors of Success in Medicine” that, “Grade point averages and Medical College Admission Test scores probably provide little if any information regarding extremely important non-cognitive abilities such as interpersonal skills, personal integrity, and social consciousness.”

These non-cognitive abilities are those that I concentrate on when mentoring, teaching and coaching aspiring physicians. Why? Because I have seen these very abilities change a student’s trajectory, in both positive and devastatingly negative ways.

Correlating with Dr. Reede’s interpersonal skills, personal integrity and social consciousness, I relate the importance of maintaining one’s character, consistency and communication, the 3 C’s, while on the arduous and tumultuous path of becoming a physician. Giving ample attention to perfecting just one of these traits/habits alone is admirable, but in becoming a physician in the 21st century, focusing on but one of these areas can be tragic.

So, let’s take a student who is a brilliant academically, per the standardized test scores. Check! Regarding, the 3 C’s, this student is abreast of the latest social media outlets and has clearly developed communication skills. I would even state that this is a true strength.

However, that’s where it ends. Despite KNOWING that one’s character and consistency are paramount when seeking to aspire to the next level, making poor decisions, such as not being present for patient care, giving the same excuse repeatedly and not following specific directions demonstrate a questionable character and a lack of consistency. I can’t say that I am surprised yet I am disappointed.

Herein lies my point. Each of the 3 C’s is important, both individually and collectively. More importantly, the 3 C’s are a package deal and should be an integral part of whom we strive to be as people, as physicians.