Committee Spotlight: Oncology Item Writing
Evan Sones, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Oncology) | Asst. Chair, Oncology Item Writing Committee
Dr. Sones received his undergraduate degree and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Louisiana State University. He then moved to Atlanta, Georgia where he completed a small animal rotating internship at Georgia Veterinary Specialists. He spent the next three years in Alabama completing a Medical Oncology Residency and concurrent Masters of Science in Biomedical Sciences at Auburn University, becoming Board-certified in 2012. Dr. Sones currently works for the Animal Cancer Care Clinic in Orlando, Florida.
What motivated you to volunteer with the ACVIM, or how did you first get involved with the organization?
The ACVIM has been a part of my career since residency. I recognized the benefits of the ACVIM as a regulatory and supportive agency to our profession. I reached a point where I felt I wanted to give back to the ACVIM and my colleagues, and had gained enough experience that my contribution would have some value.
Could you describe the work of the committee and how this work contributes to the overall mission/goals of the ACVIM?
The Oncology Item Writing Committee writes items (questions) for the exam, within specific subject matter that was recommended by the work of previous committees. This work contributes to the ACVIM goal of providing a reliable, valid, and fair examination of Candidates for Board-certification.
As a member of this committee, what responsibilities and duties do you undertake?
Each member of the committee was asked to contribute to the source materials used as references for the items. We were trained on the basics of item writing and the software used to input the questions for further review. Each member then wrote as many questions as allotted in the time we had, trying to meet a reasonable quota that was set for us individually and as a group.
Can you share a successful collaboration story that highlights the positive impact of teamwork within the committee?
Some of the suggested subjects for the items were common knowledge, but it was very difficult to find a source for that specific item. The committee members were all very helpful in coming up with a source that could be used to back-up the question. It was also great to be able to ask others the question to make sure it was sound and valid.
How has your involvement with the ACVIM and on this committee personally enriched your professional experience and contributed to your growth in the field of veterinary internal medicine?
I was able to meet new colleagues, learn a new skill of item writing, and I have to say it was quite fun to review some of the subjects for the items that I do not use in daily practice.
What advice would you give to other Diplomates considering volunteering with the ACVIM?
I would advise to start small. Find a volunteer opportunity that easily fits within the time that you have to give. This way you can get comfortable with the workings of the ACVIM and move on to bigger volunteering opportunities. It’s also a great way to meet and interact with colleagues that you may otherwise not be able to know.