Approaching the MCAT Strategically with Rachel Waldman
Many variables can impact your efficacy when preparing for the MCAT, including when you choose to take it. What is the best time to write the MCAT — and how can you optimize your prep?
Timing is Everything: Creating a Balanced & Aligned MCAT Study Plan
In this episode of Success Unlocked, I was pleased to sit down for a conversation with one of our wonderful MCAT coaches, Rachel Waldman. Rachel is a fourth-year biology student at the University of Victoria who took the MCAT after her second year, opting for a short but intense study schedule. Our thoughtful discussion is full of valuable insights about what this experience taught her — and what you need to know before making a similar decision on your own journey.
We explore:
- Why Rachel chose to write the MCAT early and how her course schedule supported that decision
- What you should consider when deciding when to take the MCAT and how to ensure that you have the bandwidth
- How the MCAT differs from the LSAT (and Rachel’s favourite MCAT study strategies)
- Why devoting all of your time to test preparation may cause more harm than good
- The importance of having a social circle that understands your MCAT prep stress — and will celebrate your wins!
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Guest bio: Rachel Waldman is a fourth-year biology student specializing in neurobiology at the University of Victoria in British Columbia.
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