BIE Academy

I always got N’s or U’s in elementary handwriting.
Never once an S.

I’m a left-handed scientist. What did you expect?
My handwriting has always been nearly illegible.

I remember feeling so lame in middle school when all the girls had beautiful penmanship — writing letters, decorating notebooks, doodling in perfect script.

Meanwhile, my paper looked like it had been written by a serial killer. 🤣

Not much has changed in adulthood — especially since I type almost everything.

But here’s the twist:

On Part 2 of the CHP exam, handwriting actually matters.

It’s one of the only places in my adult life where that’s true.

Part 2 is:
• 6 hours
• Handwritten
• In pen
• No erasing

If you’re sitting for Part 2 this year, even if you’re not ready to start answering full questions yet — start writing by hand.

Use a pen (pencils aren’t allowed).

Figure out which pen grip works best.
Avoid blisters.
Avoid hand cramps.

Write your grocery list by hand instead of typing it into your phone.
Journal at night.
Take notes on paper.

Anywhere you can build writing endurance — do it.

You will be amazed how hard it is to write clearly for six straight hours.

If you build the physical stamina now, you’ll free up brain power on test day for what actually matters — solving problems.

Simple. Doable. Effective.

Let’s make 2026 your year.

🚨 New Merch Drop — for a Cause 🚨

I’ve had this idea floating around in my head for years, and I’m excited to finally share it.

Introducing Reference Man: saving the world one half-life at a time.

This design is a love letter to internal dosimetry, health physics, and everyone who’s ever memorized organ reference values for an exam, a calculation, or a career. Yes, the labels are there. Yes, it’s nerdy. And yes… that’s the point.

Why this matters:
All proceeds from the sale of these t-shirts, magnets, mouse pads, tote bags, and mugs will go toward funding the WiRPS Scholarship CHP prep program costs for 2027. Supporting future health physicists — especially women entering and advancing in the field — is something I care deeply about, and this felt like a fun way to give back.

👕 Sales are now live! www.etsy.com/biemerchstore

Thank you for continuing to support this community and the next generation of health physicists.

hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag American Academy of Health Physics Health Physics Society

Not everyone preparing for the CHP Part 1 exam needs a full prep course and that’s okay.

Some people are early in their study timeline.
Some already have prep materials available to them.
Some want to assess gaps before committing.
Some simply learn best by working problems.

That’s why BIE Academy offers a standalone CHP Part 1 question bank, built around Joseph Bevelacqua, PhD, CHP, RRPT's exam-style questions and reasoning.

• 1,800+ CHP Part 1 questions
• Detailed explanations that walk through the why, not just the answer
• Full-length, timed practice exams
• Designed for working professionals

For those who later decide to enroll in the full Part 1 course, the standalone question bank fee is 100% credited toward the full program within a defined window.

Different paths.
Same standard.

More CHP Pins on more people!

Our live Part 1 and Part 2 CHP Exam Problem Solving Session have begun. Don't miss your chance to join us and ask about the problems you're stuck on, best practices for studying or questions you have about the structure of the exam! Visit bieacademy.com to learn more about our courses.

Just an overview of what makes our courses special!

This article highlights our founders' pursuit of the CHP that lasted over a decade!

Have you checked out our latest blog? In this feature, we share an inspiring interview with Amber and Henry Bolen, a married couple who went through the CHP exam process.

They share their personal experiences, offering insights into the ups and downs of preparing for and taking the CHP exam. Their story is a powerful reminder that perseverance, a strong study plan, and a supportive network can make all the difference. Check it out now by visiting: https://bit.ly/3PT2eAB

This blog was written about our President Amber Bolen's journey to attain her CHP. Now, she's helping others to the finish line!

The CHP exam is widely regarded as one of the most challenging professional certifications in the field of health physics. For many, it’s not a matter of “if” they’ll pass on the first attempt, but rather “when” they’ll achieve success. Sometimes it takes multiple tries. And that’s completely normal.

Check out our latest blog as Amber Bolen, CHP and a dose reconstructor at NV5.inc, shares her roadmap and tips on how to stay the course no matter the setback: https://bit.ly/3PT2eAB

Looking to pass your Certified Health Physicist exam in 2026? Let us help you get prepared! We offer fully online, self-paced prep courses built on the curriculum of Dr. Joseph Bevelacqua. Visit our website for more information www.bieacademy.com