#HMP- Research

Tag: #HMP- Research

Preparing for the MCAT: Your Guide to Success

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is one of the most critical steps for aspiring medical students. This challenging, standardized exam is designed to test your knowledge of the sciences, analytical thinking, and critical reasoning skills, as well as your understanding of behavioral sciences. Preparing for the MCAT requires strategy, discipline, and the right resources. Here’s a guide to help you navigate your preparation and achieve your best score.

Understand the MCAT Structure and Content
The MCAT is a comprehensive exam that assesses your knowledge and reasoning in four main sections:

  • Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems: This section focuses on chemistry, physics, and biochemistry.
  • Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS): This part tests reading comprehension, analytical skills, and critical thinking.
  • Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems: This section focuses on biology, biochemistry, and organic chemistry.
  • Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior: This section includes psychology, sociology, and human behavior concepts.

    Each section has a time limit, and understanding the structure helps you know what to expect and plan your time accordingly. Familiarizing yourself with the exam’s format and question types is the first step toward effective preparation.

Create a Study Schedule
The MCAT requires an organized and disciplined study plan, typically involving 3-6 months of dedicated preparation. Begin by evaluating your current strengths and weaknesses across each section. Once you know where to focus, create a weekly study schedule that includes:

  • Content Review: Allocate time for each subject and work on the topics you’re less familiar with.
  • Practice Questions: Integrate practice questions to apply what you’ve learned and identify areas for improvement.
  • Full-Length Practice Exams: Aim to complete full-length practice tests every few weeks to simulate the actual test day experience. Gradually increase your practice frequency as you approach the test date.

Having a balanced schedule that includes both content review and practice will help you build confidence and improve your time management.

Use Quality Study Materials
Choosing the right study materials is essential. Here are some resources that can help you prepare effectively:

  • Official AAMC Materials: The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) offers official practice exams, question packs, and section-specific question sets. These materials closely mimic the actual exam and are invaluable for realistic practice.
  • Kaplan and Princeton Review: These companies offer comprehensive review books, question banks, and online courses. They’re popular choices for structured content review.
  • Quizlet: Quizlet is particularly helpful for memorizing terminology and key concepts in psychology, biology, and biochemistry.
  • Bozeman Science on YouTube: This YouTube channel provides concise, informative videos that can help you grasp difficult concepts in biology and chemistry.
  • Anki Flashcards: Anki is great for spaced repetition, a technique proven to enhance long-term retention. Many students use pre-made MCAT flashcard decks to review high-yield topics consistently.

Practice, Practice, Practice
Practice is key to succeeding on the MCAT. Start by working on section-specific questions to improve your understanding and pacing. As you progress, begin taking full-length practice exams under timed conditions. This not only builds stamina but also helps you refine your pacing, which is crucial since the MCAT is a long exam (about 7.5 hours with breaks). After each practice exam, spend time reviewing every question, especially the ones you got wrong or guessed on. This process helps you identify weak areas and better understand your mistakes, making your next attempt more effective.

Master the Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) Section
The CARS section can be one of the trickiest parts of the MCAT since it requires strong reading comprehension and critical thinking skills rather than scientific knowledge. Here are some tips to excel in this section:

  • Practice Reading Daily: Regularly read complex articles in subjects like philosophy, history, and sociology to build reading stamina and analytical skills.
  • Work on Timing: Practice answering CARS passages under timed conditions to improve your pacing.
  • Focus on the Passage: Don’t rely on external knowledge; the answers are always within the passage. Read carefully and practice identifying the main ideas, arguments, and assumptions.

Build a Support System and Stay Motivated
Preparing for the MCAT can be overwhelming, so it’s helpful to have a support system. Study groups, online forums like Reddit’s r/MCAT, or even a study partner can provide motivation, accountability, and shared resources. Being part of a community can help you stay motivated and remind you that you’re not in it alone. Additionally, don’t hesitate to seek advice from those who have already taken the MCAT. They can share study strategies, tips for test day, and suggestions on managing stress and nerves.

Take Care of Your Physical and Mental Health
Studying for the MCAT can be intense, so it’s essential to prioritize your health. Make sure to incorporate these habits into your routine:

  • Sleep Well: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep to ensure your brain is well-rested and ready for each day of study.
  • Exercise Regularly: Physical activity boosts mood, energy, and focus—qualities that can significantly benefit your study sessions.
  • Practice Stress-Relief Techniques: Techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and short meditation sessions can help you manage stress and stay focused.
    Remember that preparing for the MCAT is a marathon, not a sprint. Taking care of your well-being will help you stay resilient throughout the journey.

Plan for Test Day
As test day approaches, familiarize yourself with the testing center’s rules and regulations. Bring required identification, approved snacks, and any necessary items like earplugs. Consider doing a test run to the center a day or two before to ensure you know the route and can reduce test-day anxiety.
On test day, remember to take the scheduled breaks to stay refreshed. Don’t dwell on difficult questions; mark them and move on, coming back if you have time at the end. Staying calm and focused will help you perform at your best.

Conclusion: Your Path to Success
Preparing for the MCAT requires dedication, discipline, and strategy. By creating a structured study plan, utilizing quality resources, and prioritizing your mental and physical health, you can set yourself up for success. The journey may be challenging, but remember that every hour of study brings you closer to your goal. Stay focused, trust the process, and believe in your abilities—you’ve got this!

Dennis Boakye ’26 is a rising junior with a major in Neuroscience and a minor in Mathematics. He is also a co-president of the Neurolawrence Club and the Synthetic Biology Club and the treasurer for the American Medical Student Association (AMSA, Lawrence Chapter) and the Black Student Union (BSU). Dennis is the current career peer educator for the Health and Medicinal Professions (HMP) and the Physical and Natural Sciences (PHN) career communities at Lawrence University. Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn.

Informational Interview: Physician/Surgeon M.D.

Transcript Summary

Introduction and Background:

The conversation began with the interviewer (student) sharing their background as an international student from Ghana and a junior studying neuroscience at Lawrence University. The physician (interviewee) reflected on Lawrence University, praising the small, tight-knit academic environment that fosters intelligent and driven graduates, noting that it remains somewhat underrecognized.

Journey to Medicine and Surgery:

The physician shared his inspiration for entering medicine, rooted in a strong scientific background and maternal encouragement to pursue a meaningful career. After attending Lawrence, he completed majors in chemistry and biology, which helped prepare him for medical school. He later attended Washington University in St. Louis, where his hands-on, action-oriented personality led him to surgery. His choice of head and neck surgery stemmed from its wide range of possible specialties, from routine ENT work to advanced head and neck surgery, and the opportunity to combine multiple interests within a single field.

Academic and Professional Milestones:

He outlined his academic trajectory, from internships to advanced training at the NIH and UCLA, and discussed his work in private practice while balancing a teaching role and research. The physician also shared his involvement with the American Medical Association and the Computer Coding Committee in Washington, where he advocated for fair physician compensation.

Advice on Pursuing a Medical Career:

Recognizing the user’s interest in neurosurgery, the physician encouraged them to embrace research opportunities and aim for an MD/PhD path if possible. He underscored the significance of networking with top mentors who could support their application through recommendation letters and suggested considering Lawrence alumni connections for unique research or lab experiences outside the university.

Reflection and Tips

My informational interview with a physician-surgeon provided me with invaluable insights and reflections on my current path. As an international student from Ghana studying neuroscience, I have sought guidance from experienced professionals to better understand the rigorous journey to medical school and, ultimately, a career in surgery. This conversation clarified the many stages of preparation, from the academic to the personal, and underscored how experiences at Lawrence University might shape my goals.

Reflecting on the physician’s story, I felt both inspired and affirmed in my choice of studies and ambitions. He shared that his own journey began with the influential role his mother played in pushing him to consider a meaningful career—something I resonate with deeply. Having left home to pursue education abroad, I relate to his motivation and desire to make the most of available resources to succeed in a competitive field. The physician’s choice of surgery was particularly impactful, as it was shaped by a natural fit with his personality and his preference for hands-on, action-oriented work over a more traditional clinical setting. This aligns with my own interest in surgery, particularly neurosurgery, where I can imagine balancing my analytical skills with direct patient interventions in the operating room.

One of the most valuable takeaways was his emphasis on the importance of early preparation. He validated my decision to start exploring career paths as a junior, stressing how many students overlook this until later in their studies. His story of combining practical experience with a clear academic vision highlighted how deliberate planning and proactive engagement can make a significant difference when applying to medical programs.

His advice to seek research roles also resonated with my experiences. He detailed the importance of mentorship and networking, mentioning that a strong recommendation from a well-established professional could profoundly impact my application. Reflecting on my past summer research experiences, I feel a renewed drive to deepen connections with my mentors and seek further laboratory work, knowing that each of these interactions could form the foundation for future opportunities. The physician’s personal experience at Lawrence, where he ran his own lab with a government grant, highlighted the potential to gain unique experiences in less typical, resource-limited settings, an idea I find incredibly motivating.

An interesting and practical suggestion was to consider MD/PhD programs, given my research background and interest in neuroscience. The physician presented the MD/PhD path as a flexible option for those like myself who are drawn to both clinical and research aspects of medicine. His suggestion that Washington University, his alma mater, offers a strong MD/PhD program added a practical recommendation to my list of potential schools.

The conversation also gave me insight into potential challenges. The physician’s reflection on the systemic challenges in medicine today, from billing issues to reimbursement complications, was a sobering reminder that the field comes with its share of bureaucratic hurdles. He shared the importance of resilience in the face of these challenges, advising that finding a strong, supportive network of mentors and colleagues is vital to long-term satisfaction in the profession.

Ultimately, this interview left me feeling both excited and equipped to pursue the next steps toward a medical career. From researching lab positions outside of Lawrence to building relationships with mentors and considering an MD/PhD, I am motivated to refine my path further. The physician’s story exemplifies the value of strategic planning, resilience, and adaptability, qualities I am eager to embody as I move forward in my journey to medical school and beyond.

Dennis Boakye ’26 is a junior with a major in Neuroscience and a minor in Mathematics. He is also a co-president of the Neurolawrence Club and the Synthetic Biology Club and the treasurer for the American Medical Student Association (AMSA, Lawrence Chapter) and the Black Student Union (BSU). Dennis is the current career peer educator for the Health and Medicinal Professions (HMP) and the Physical and Natural Sciences (PHN) career communities at Lawrence University. Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn.

Career Spotlight: Genetic Counselor

One of the wonderful things about the world of the health care and medical professions is the variety and quantity of subfields. One great option that straddles the fields of genetics, medicine, and counseling is genetic counseling. With flexible job duties, opportunities for specialization, and direct patient interaction, genetic counselors bridge the gap between specialized knowledge and patient communication. Does this sound like it might be a good fit? Read on to learn about careers in genetic counseling. 

What do genetic counselors do? 

Genetic counselors meet with patients who are considering genetic testing. Genetic counselors help patients to determine the best course of action, based on factors such as the patient’s risk for certain diseases and their family health history. Genetic counselors can meet with patients before and after genetic testing, and part of their work may include helping individuals and families to process the medical, psychological, and familial consequences of their test results. Additionally, genetic counselors may conduct research, teach, work in marketing, or perform other non-clinical work. Genetic counselors often specialize in areas including prenatal, pediatric, oncology, neurology, ophthalmology, and psychiatry. 

Where do they work? 

Genetic counselors can work in several settings, including hospitals, medical centers, private clinics, laboratories, universities, and non-profits. Genetic counseling work is also conducive to telehealth, which means that genetic counselors can sometimes work virtually. 

Who do they work with? 

In addition to meeting with patients, genetic counselors work closely with doctors and other medical staff. Obstetricians, oncologists, and medical geneticists, as well as primary care doctors and other specialists, may refer patients to a genetic counselor. They also may work closely with the families of patients. 

What is the job outlook for this profession? 

Genetic counselors make around $84,886 per year (the median salary calculated by an NSGC survey). Employment is projected to grow faster than average in the coming years. 

How do I become a genetic counselor? 

Genetic counselors receive advanced training in both medical genetics and counseling, in order to fill both genetic expert and counseling roles. Education typically involves a two-year master’s program in genetic counseling, following an undergraduate degree. After earning a master’s degree, prospective GCs take a certification exam, and thus become certified genetic counselors. 

In the Know: Professional organizations and resources 

The National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) is a primary resource for all things genetic counseling related. They have information on education, jobs, and policy relating to genetic counseling. 

The Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC) is also a great resource to know about. As the accreditation board for graduate programs in genetic counseling, it has a directory of accredited master’s programs. 

Lawrence Connections: Alumni in the genetic counseling field 

Lawrence has several alumni with professional experience as genetic counselors! There is no better way to learn about the field than from professionals themselves, so check out these profiles on Viking Connect, Lawrence’s alumni platform. Feel free to reach out to any or all of these alumni! 

Wherever your career explorations lead you, thanks for taking a minute to learn about this valuable field! 

Video: Summer Research 101 (2021)

Are you interested in summer research, but not sure how to successfully secure a position? Do you want to become a competitive candidate for on-campus and/or off-campus research opportunities? If you answered yes to either of these questions, this workshop is for you. Join Jacklyn Fischer (Career Center) and Prof. Deanna Donohoue as they walk you through the timeline and process of preparing a competitive application for any type of summer research.

Career Pathways in Psychology: To Grad School Or Not To Grad School

Career pathways are often at the forefront of soon-to-be graduates mind’s —and often even on the mind’s of sophomores and juniors — as you prepare to make the decision of whether to apply to graduate programs or not. In the field of psychology, there are myriad career pathways — some require different levels of graduate education, but some are possible with just your BA. Take a look at a brief (but certainly not exhaustive) list of ideas below!

I’m interested in getting a Master’s or PhD — which degree is suitable for what position?
Positions requiring graduate degrees in psychology will often involve some level of direct therapy with patients. Often, attaining a Master’s in psychology alongside licensure can provide you with the qualification to work as a counselor in an organizational setting, as a Staff Psychologist, and as a School Psychologist. Something to consider for these types of positions is what clientele you would prefer to work with. Obviously, school psychologists will work with children and adolescents, whereas a staff psychologist will work with members of a specific organization’s staff to ensure good health and mental well-being in a work environment.

Getting a doctorate — PhD or PsyD — in psychology, along with appropriate licensure, opens the door to private practice as a Clinical or Counseling Psychologist. This will enable you to work 1:1 with patients in a private setting — either your own or someone else’s clinic. Additionally, if you’re interested in leading your own research or teaching, a PhD is a requirement for many positions in academia.

I only want to get my BA in psychology, or I’m not sure about graduate school — what opportunities are out there for me?
While clinical and counseling therapy positions require higher education, there are plenty of positions in mental health that only require you to have a BA in psychology — and some you can even start while still pursuing your degree. For example, an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Instructor typically requires a BA, or even occasionally just the current pursuit of a BA, where you will get to work as an interventionist for educating and treating children with autism and autism-spectrum disorders.

Additionally, you could look into becoming a Mental Health Case Manager, where you will oversee a caseload of clients with long-term mental illnesses. Rather than providing direct therapy treatment, case managers help clients assess their needs and implement or review plans for service, while also connecting clients with community resources.

Finally, if you’re interested in pursuing research, or want to explore research as a career pathway without committing to years of graduate schooling, most Research Assistant positions in Psychology require a BA in psychology or other related social science. Research assistant experience also looks excellent on future graduate school applications, if that does end up being a possibility in the future.