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Insights from an Interview with a Psychology Student Worker at Lawrence University

Current Roles and Responsibilities:

A junior Psychology major at Lawrence University, this student worker manages two distinct roles on campus: teaching assistant (TA) in the Chinese department and mailroom assistant. As a TA, she tutors students in Mandarin twice a week, prepares class content, and grades homework. She describes the TA role as challenging yet rewarding, noting that it “helps me think from the professor’s perspective,” especially when planning content that effectively engages and supports students. Her second role, as a mailroom assistant, involves interacting with people throughout the day, assisting them with package pick-ups and deliveries. This job, she shares, has helped her develop her “people skills” through regular interactions with students and faculty.

Skills Gained:

Through her campus jobs, she has cultivated various skills, particularly in teaching and communication. As a TA, she has learned “what kind of materials students prefer” and how to communicate in ways that enhance their understanding of Mandarin. Working in the mailroom has further strengthened her interpersonal skills. “Talking to people when they come to the mailroom and helping them… helps improve my people skills,” she said. These experiences have given her confidence and practical skills that she feels are “very beneficial” for her future career.

Balancing Responsibilities:

Balancing academics with her work responsibilities has been challenging, especially with her TA role, which requires significant preparation time outside of tutoring hours. “I just use as much time as I can in between classes or during lunch breaks to get things done,” she explained. For the mailroom job, she appreciates that she can sometimes work on her homework when it’s less busy, which helps her manage time more effectively.

Challenges Faced and How She Overcomes Them:

Time management has been her biggest challenge, especially when it comes to her TA role, where the workload doesn’t follow a strict schedule. She describes the TA work as “another homework assignment” that requires consistent effort each week. “I think I need to improve my efficiency,” she admits, explaining that balancing work with academics requires learning to “do more within a short period of time.”

Most Enjoyable Aspects of Her Roles:

She finds both roles rewarding in unique ways. As a mailroom assistant, she enjoys the social aspect of the job, meeting new people and catching up with friends who pass through. As a TA, she finds satisfaction in seeing her students’ progress. “It’s very nice to see them learn new stuff and get better at the language,” she shared, adding that witnessing their improvement over time is both inspiring and fulfilling.

Future Career Connections:

Although she’s not entirely sure of her long-term career plans, she’s open to potentially pursuing a teaching role in academia after graduate school. The TA experience, she believes, will be valuable if she chooses to continue in an educational setting. “If I go to grad school or even teach in the future, these skills are helpful,” she explained. She also emphasized that communication and problem-solving skills are transferable to any career path and are qualities she’s actively developing through her campus jobs.

Advice for Other Students:

For students considering similar roles, she offers practical advice: “Work in something that you at least do not hate or, ideally, something you like.” She notes that some campus jobs, like the mailroom, are flexible, which allows students to make use of downtime for personal work. Her overall recommendation is to choose roles that feel enjoyable or rewarding, rather than jobs chosen solely for the paycheck.

Reflecting on Work-Life Balance:

As a final piece of advice, she encourages students to reflect on their schedules each term and carefully consider whether they can manage the maximum 20-hour weekly work limit. “Don’t push yourself too hard,” she advised. She’s learned that while 20 hours of work may be manageable for some, it’s important to leave space for rest and balance, especially during busy terms. “Sometimes, just give yourself a little rest or break,” she added.

 Reflection

My conversation with this student worker gave me valuable insights into managing multiple responsibilities on campus, particularly with roles that require both academic and interpersonal skills. Her experience as both a teaching assistant and a mailroom assistant demonstrates a balance of structured teaching and flexible, interactive work, providing her with a range of skills applicable to future career paths. What stood out most was her thoughtful approach to balancing time between her studies and her jobs. Her experience of filling in moments between classes or lunch breaks to get work done is something I resonate with and could incorporate into my own schedule. Her adaptability and use of every available moment are qualities I admire, as they reflect an efficient and practical way of managing busy days.

Her challenges with time management and the added workload from her TA responsibilities also struck a chord with me. I related to her description of TA work as “another homework assignment” with no fixed hours. Her openness about needing to improve her efficiency was refreshing and motivating, reminding me that even small gains in time management can make a significant difference in balancing academics and work. One of the most inspiring parts of our conversation was her reflection on the satisfaction of seeing students progress. Her description of watching students “get better at the language” reminded me of the fulfillment I find in helping others, whether through tutoring or club activities. This aspect of her role reinforces the value of teaching as not only a way to help others but also as a way to grow and gain perspective.

Her advice about choosing enjoyable work resonated with me deeply. “Work in something that you at least do not hate,” she said, which reminded me of the importance of choosing roles that bring personal fulfillment or interest. It’s easy to fall into the habit of taking on roles solely for financial gain or to fill time, but she reminded me to prioritize enjoyment in my work. Her suggestion to find flexible jobs that allow time for personal work also aligns with my goals, as balancing academics with work is a constant challenge. Lastly, her advice on not pushing oneself too hard was a reminder to think carefully about my commitments each term. She reflected on her experience of overworking and the importance of planning for downtime, which was a helpful reminder that rest is necessary for sustained productivity and well-being.

To conclude, this conversation highlighted the value of balancing work with personal interests, cultivating skills that are transferable to future careers, and maintaining a focus on well-being. Her experience balancing two roles with her academic goals has inspired me to evaluate my own commitments and consider how I can approach my work more mindfully.

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.

Insights from an Interview with a Physics and Mathematics Student Worker at Lawrence University

Day-to-Day Responsibilities:

A junior at Lawrence University majoring in Mathematics and Physics, this student worker manages an impressive array of responsibilities on campus. In addition to his studies, he holds multiple roles as a teaching assistant, tutor, and dishroom worker. He is also actively involved in clubs and organizations such as the LU rock climbing club, the Society of Physics Students, and, when his schedule permits, the sustainability board. These roles, though varied, reflect his dedication to both his academic interests and the broader Lawrence community. As he put it, “I don’t think I do anything this time that I don’t enjoy to some extent,” demonstrating his commitment to balancing enjoyment with productivity.

Typical Daily Schedule:

A typical day for this student begins as early as possible, balancing coursework and club activities. Classes usually start around 10:00 a.m., and the rest of his day is packed with tutoring or teaching sessions, club meetings, and study sessions. Weekdays are often booked until 5:00 p.m. or later, while weekends offer a slightly more flexible schedule, with time for additional meetings and hobbies like rock climbing. He also dedicates time to fitness and climbing as a way to recharge and stay balanced amid his commitments. As he explained, “I usually have to be done with most responsibilities like meetings and stuff by 5:00 p.m. or sometimes as late as 9:30, but I try to keep my weekends more free.”

Skills Gained:

From his various roles, he has developed a host of skills, including time management, leadership, and adaptability. With a tight schedule, he has honed the ability to communicate efficiently and manage tasks effectively. “When you have a schedule that’s somewhat tight, you have to be effective,” he noted, “otherwise things can disappear.” Additionally, he’s picked up problem-solving skills through club activities, whether it’s managing budgets for robotics or planning new events for rock climbing. His involvement in diverse activities has cultivated a broader adaptability that he believes is difficult to track but undeniably valuable.

Balancing Responsibilities:

He balances his responsibilities by choosing roles that align with his personal interests and goals. He emphasized that enjoyment is crucial to sustaining such a busy schedule, and he selects roles he feels passionate about. “A lot of it is about skills I gain from all of them,” he said, “like becoming more adaptable when I don’t have much time.” Whether it’s contributing to sustainability efforts or creating a stronger rock-climbing community, each activity provides personal fulfillment and aligns with his broader aspirations.

Favorite Aspects of His Roles:

When asked what he enjoys most, he highlighted working with people in math and physics, where he can tackle complex problems collaboratively. “I enjoy the problem-solving aspect,” he said, “and working with other scientists to find a solution to something.” In sustainability, he values the opportunity to make a positive impact on the Lawrence community. For rock climbing, he enjoys introducing others to a sport he loves, and as a teaching assistant, he appreciates the reciprocal learning process that teaching affords. Though he does not plan to pursue teaching as a career, he finds that helping others enhances his own understanding. “As a learner, I feel like you learn best when you teach each other,” he explained.

Impact on Lawrence Experience:

He reflected on how his roles have positively impacted his experience at Lawrence by allowing him to meet diverse individuals with unique perspectives. “In general, Lawrence has good people,” he said. “You get to meet a lot of different people who are doing all kinds of things, and it helps you become more open-minded.” He believes that interacting with people from different backgrounds has broadened his understanding and fostered greater open-mindedness, ultimately making him a more adaptable problem solver.

Advice for Other Students:

One insight he shared was his wish to have taken on more responsibilities earlier. “I guess I wish I had taken more responsibilities in my first year,” he reflected. “Doing different things actually gives you a break from other things and lets you come back to them with a fresh mind.” He realized that engaging in various roles could have introduced him to a wider range of skills sooner. His advice to find responsibilities that provide a mental shift during heavy academic work is both practical and insightful.

Future Goals:

Looking ahead, he plans to continue his academic journey in graduate school, possibly studying abroad and exploring internship opportunities in other countries. For his club involvements, he’s working to build a foundation for younger students to lead in future years. “The next steps for the clubs is finding younger people to take over,” he explained. Career-wise, he hopes to deepen his knowledge of mathematics and science, setting his sights on a meaningful and impactful career.

 Reflection

My recent conversation with a student worker and active campus leader at Lawrence University provided a unique perspective on balancing academic pursuits with a multitude of extracurricular roles. As someone also deeply involved in various clubs and responsibilities, I found his approach to balancing work, academics, and personal interests insightful and motivating. One of the most impactful aspects of our conversation was his focus on aligning his responsibilities with his passions and goals. “I don’t think I do anything this time that I don’t enjoy to some extent,” he said, confirming the importance of selecting commitments that bring personal enjoyment and professional growth. Hearing about his experience reminded me to evaluate my own commitments, ensuring they align with my interests and long-term goals rather than simply filling time.

Another highlight was his adaptability and effective time management. His ability to manage a rigorous schedule, including tutoring, working in the dining hall, and leading club activities, impressed me and reinforced the value of developing these skills. “When you have a schedule that’s somewhat tight, you have to be effective,” he shared, underscoring the importance of efficient time use. His approach to managing multiple roles has inspired me to be more deliberate in tracking and improving my adaptability and efficiency. Additionally, his reflections on his role as a teaching assistant and tutor resonated with my own experiences. His emphasis on the reciprocal benefits of teaching, where explaining concepts helps reinforce one’s own understanding, reminded me of similar moments in my academic journey. As he explained, “I feel like you learn best when you teach each other.” This encouraged me to continue exploring this role as both a teacher and a student.

One aspect of his advice that struck me was his wish to have taken on more responsibilities sooner. “Doing different things actually gives you a break from other things and lets you come back to them with a fresh mind,” he noted. Engaging in multiple activities, he explained, can often bring new perspectives to problem-solving. His suggestion to find responsibilities that break up academic work was also insightful and practical. Looking toward the future, his goals for graduate school and studying abroad opened my eyes to broader possibilities beyond undergraduate studies. His plans to pass on leadership within his clubs remind me that current involvement has a meaningful impact on future students. I feel encouraged to consider how I, too, can support the next generation within my own organizations.

In sum, this conversation reinforced the importance of aligning my roles with personal goals, embracing adaptability, and considering the impact of current actions on future students. His journey as a student worker and active campus leader exemplifies resilience, curiosity, and dedication to meaningful involvement. His experiences and advice left me feeling both motivated and better equipped to approach my responsibilities with intentionality and enthusiasm.

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.

What Makes a Good Medical School Applicant?

The journey to medical school is highly competitive, with applicants from diverse backgrounds striving to secure a coveted spot. However, medical schools look beyond grades and test scores when choosing candidates. They seek well-rounded individuals who demonstrate not only academic excellence but also the qualities and skills essential for a successful medical career. Here’s a look at what makes a strong medical school applicant.

Strong Academic Foundation
While grades and MCAT scores are not the sole criteria, they play a crucial role in demonstrating an applicant’s ability to handle the academic demands of medical school. Strong performance in courses like biology, chemistry, physics, and biochemistry shows readiness for rigorous science coursework. A competitive MCAT score further underscores an applicant’s knowledge and critical thinking abilities.

Clinical Experience
Hands-on clinical experience is essential for a medical school applicant. Whether through shadowing, volunteering, or working as a medical assistant, these experiences provide invaluable insights into the healthcare environment. Clinical experience also shows admissions committees that the applicant has firsthand exposure to patient care and understands the challenges and realities of the medical profession.

Commitment to Service
Medicine is fundamentally a service-oriented profession, and medical schools seek applicants who demonstrate a genuine commitment to helping others. Volunteer work, community service, or participation in outreach programs reflect a dedication to improving people’s lives and giving back to the community. These experiences help applicants develop empathy, compassion, and interpersonal skills—qualities that are essential in a physician.

Research Experience
Many medical schools, particularly those affiliated with research institutions, look favorably on applicants with research experience. Research demonstrates critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to advancing medical knowledge. Whether in a laboratory, clinical setting, or through independent projects, research experience can strengthen an applicant’s profile and indicate an interest in contributing to medical science.

Leadership Skills
Physicians often take on leadership roles, whether it’s managing a healthcare team, coordinating patient care, or advocating for healthcare policy. Medical schools value applicants who demonstrate leadership skills through student organizations, work roles, or other extracurricular activities. Effective leaders show resilience, adaptability, and the ability to work well with others, all of which are critical skills in medicine.

Excellent Communication Skills
Good communication is essential for physicians who must convey complex medical information to patients, collaborate with colleagues, and engage in patient-centered care. Medical schools look for applicants who can communicate clearly and empathetically. Participation in activities such as public speaking, teaching, or even working in customer service can showcase strong communication skills and interpersonal abilities.

Maturity and Professionalism
Medical school is intense and requires students to be responsible, organized, and professional. Admissions committees look for evidence of maturity in an applicant’s ability to manage stress, take responsibility, and maintain professionalism. Letters of recommendation, personal statements, and interview interactions often provide insights into an applicant’s maturity and readiness for the demands of medical training.

Cultural Competence and Sensitivity
With increasing diversity in patient populations, cultural competence has become an essential quality for physicians. Medical schools appreciate applicants who demonstrate respect and sensitivity toward people from different backgrounds. Experiences such as volunteering in diverse communities, learning a second language, or studying abroad can reflect cultural awareness and an appreciation for diverse perspectives.

A Well-Rounded Background
Medical schools value applicants who are well-rounded and bring unique experiences to the table. Pursuing hobbies, artistic interests, or athletic achievements shows that an applicant is more than just their academic profile. Well-rounded applicants are often better equipped to balance the pressures of medical school and bring a holistic perspective to patient care.

A Clear Passion for Medicine
Ultimately, a strong medical school applicant shows a genuine passion for the field of medicine. Admissions committees look for candidates who can articulate why they want to become physicians and how they envision contributing to healthcare. This passion is often reflected in the personal statement, interviews, and the overall consistency of an applicant’s experiences.

Conclusion: Building a Standout Application
A good medical school applicant is more than just a high GPA or MCAT score; they are well-rounded individuals who are academically prepared, compassionate, and committed to service. By focusing on these qualities and experiences, applicants can strengthen their profiles and demonstrate their readiness for the journey ahead. Medical schools seek not only future doctors but also future leaders and advocates for health, so remember to highlight your unique qualities, dedication, and passion for making a positive impact.

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.

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.

Figure 1: A Unique Clinical Learning Tool for Pre-Med Students

Figure 1 is a unique platform designed to provide healthcare professionals and students with real-world clinical insights through a visual, case-based approach. Often referred to as the “Instagram for healthcare,” Figure 1 allows users to share and discuss medical images and case studies from actual patient cases. The platform is a valuable resource for pre-med students who wish to deepen their understanding of the clinical environment, explore different medical specialties, and familiarize themselves with various diagnoses and treatment options long before they enter medical school.

What Figure 1 Offers to Pre-Med Students

For pre-med students, Figure 1 provides a rare opportunity to engage with complex medical cases in a real-world context. Medical professionals from around the world post images and descriptions of cases, including everything from dermatological conditions and surgical procedures to X-rays and MRIs. Each case is accompanied by descriptions and comments from other professionals who discuss possible diagnoses, treatments, and medical opinions. This platform serves as a virtual shadowing experience, giving students a sense of what it’s like to encounter real medical cases. Rather than learning from textbooks or classrooms alone, pre-med students can gain exposure to actual clinical scenarios, offering a more comprehensive and immersive learning experience. Through Figure 1, students are not only exposed to textbook-perfect cases but also to rare, complex, and ambiguous situations that healthcare professionals encounter, which strengthens critical thinking skills.

Key Benefits for Pre-Med Students

1. Real-Time Case Learning: Unlike traditional study resources, Figure 1 showcases real-time cases, often including the initial symptoms, diagnostic imaging, treatment, and outcomes. Students can observe how cases unfold and how healthcare professionals make decisions at each step.

2. Interactive Quizzes and Diagnostic Challenges: Figure 1 offers diagnostic challenges and interactive quizzes based on real cases. These exercises allow students to test their knowledge, make diagnoses, and compare their reasoning with practicing professionals. Such interactivity helps reinforce learning in an engaging way, making it a practical tool for applying pre-medical knowledge to realistic situations.

3. Early Exposure to Medical Specialties: Figure 1 covers a wide range of specialties, including cardiology, dermatology, radiology, surgery, and emergency medicine. By exploring cases across these fields, pre-med students can start identifying the specialties they may be interested in. This early exposure can help guide their choices during medical school and even influence their career path.

4. Critical Thinking Development: Medical cases on Figure 1 often come with detailed explanations, but some are presented with limited information, prompting users to ask questions, hypothesize diagnoses, and consider possible treatments. For pre-med students, this approach encourages independent thinking and problem-solving, essential skills for any future medical professional.

5. Professional Networking and Collaboration: Figure 1 enables students to learn from experienced doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. The platform’s commenting feature allows users to ask questions, discuss case details, and offer their input. This type of collaborative learning fosters a sense of community among users and offers a chance to connect with professionals from diverse healthcare backgrounds.

6. Insight into Medical Ethics and Patient Care: In addition to clinical knowledge, Figure 1 provides insights into the ethical considerations of patient care. Each case includes information on patient consent, privacy, and the importance of patient-centered care. For pre-med students, understanding these ethical aspects is crucial for developing a compassionate approach to healthcare.

Why Pre-Med Students Should Use Figure 1

Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice

One of the main challenges for pre-med students is translating textbook knowledge into practical, clinical application. While coursework provides foundational knowledge, Figure 1 shows what real cases look like, complete with nuances, complications, and unexpected symptoms. By seeing how professionals handle these complexities, pre-med students can gain a realistic sense of the challenges and rewards of clinical practice.

Supplementing Shadowing and Volunteering Experience

Pre-med students are often advised to shadow physicians or volunteer in clinical settings to gain hands-on experience. However, shadowing opportunities are sometimes limited, particularly during times of high demand or in certain geographical areas. Figure 1 acts as an additional shadowing experience, giving students access to a vast array of cases they might not see otherwise. This added exposure can be invaluable for students looking to build a well-rounded understanding of patient care.

 Enhancing Learning for Standardized Exams

Pre-med students preparing for exams like the MCAT will find Figure 1’s diagnostic challenges beneficial. Although Figure 1 is not a primary study resource, it reinforces many foundational concepts covered in medical admissions exams. The interactive nature of the cases helps students practice applying concepts in anatomy, physiology, and pathology, potentially improving their critical thinking skills for exam situations.

Getting Started with Figure 1

Signing up for Figure 1 is straightforward, and it’s accessible as a free mobile app and a web platform. Pre-med students can create an account by verifying their status as a healthcare student, typically by providing documentation such as a student ID or proof of enrollment. Once registered, students have access to thousands of cases, diagnostic challenges, and professional discussions. Figure 1 also offers premium features, such as in-depth case studies and additional interactive quizzes, which can enhance the learning experience.

Conclusion

For any pre-med student, Figure 1 represents a powerful supplement to traditional learning methods. By providing access to real-world cases and fostering engagement with a global network of healthcare professionals, Figure 1 allows students to start thinking like doctors and develop the clinical intuition needed for medical school and beyond. In an era where digital resources are increasingly integrated into education, Figure 1 stands out as a valuable, interactive, and visually engaging tool for any pre-med student looking to enrich their preparation for a career in medicine.

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.

Tips and Tricks for Medical School Success: Insights from a Current Medical Student

MCAT Preparation and Resources

The medical student emphasized the importance of achieving a strong MCAT score, suggesting a target of above 510. They recommended transferring effective study methods from current coursework to MCAT prep, particularly using Quizlet for the psychology and biology sections. Additionally, they suggested resources like Kaplan (with a 50% discount available for AMSA board members at Lawrence) and Bozeman Science on YouTube as valuable for structured learning and review.

Application Process and Essay Writing Tips

Having applied during the challenging COVID-19 period, the student stressed the value of planning ahead. They advised starting the essay process early, especially personal statements, as these are central to the application. They shared a practical approach to essay writing: drafting responses, using AI tools like ChatGPT to re-tailor essays for different prompts, and seeking feedback from professors or health advisors. They also highlighted the benefit of reusing responses across applications where possible to save time and effort.

Experiential Learning and Internships

Regarding practical experience, the student advised doing internships at medical schools of interest, ideally during the summer, as a way to explore the campus environment and get a feel for the institution. They recommended shadowing opportunities to gain exposure to different specialties and suggested working as a technician, noting that fellowships can be challenging to obtain.

Career Interests and Extracurricular Involvement

As an entrepreneur, the student also discussed their startup experience and encouraged me to explore entrepreneurial opportunities related to the Synthetic Biology Club and potential collaborations with industry partners. They expressed interest in staying connected to discuss synthetic biology ideas or iGEM competition plans in the future.

Institutions and Potential Networks

The student mentioned the University of Wisconsin-Madison as a solid institution worth exploring for additional networking or research opportunities.

Reflection

My informational interview with the medical student at the Medical College of Wisconsin was both enlightening and inspiring. As someone on the pre-med track with dreams of entering the medical field, I found his insights into the medical school application process, MCAT preparation, and experiential learning to be incredibly valuable. His journey and recommendations offered me a clear and practical roadmap for navigating the next steps toward my goals.

Reflecting on our conversation, the emphasis he placed on early MCAT preparation and strategic study habits really resonated. It was reassuring to hear that the study methods I already use—like Quizlet—could translate effectively to MCAT prep, especially for the psychology and biology sections. In addition, the resources he recommended, such as Kaplan and Bozeman Science on YouTube, have given me new platforms to explore that could enhance my understanding and retention. His suggestion to leverage my AMSA board position to access a discounted Kaplan course reminded me of the importance of using available resources to reduce the financial burden that can come with preparing for the MCAT.

Another standout moment from our conversation was his advice on the application essays, especially the personal statement. He emphasized the value of starting early, which aligns with my approach to academic and career goals so far. The idea of using AI tools like ChatGPT for initial drafts, and then refining them with feedback from professors or advisors, was particularly helpful. It combines efficiency with thoroughness and allows for a personalized touch that admissions committees value. This approach not only makes the process less daunting but also ensures that my essays will be cohesive and adaptable across applications.

Our discussion on gaining relevant experiences, particularly through internships, was a valuable addition to my understanding of the pre-med journey. He advised pursuing internships at schools I’m interested in, an idea I hadn’t previously considered but now see as essential. Such experiences would allow me to explore the academic environment and potentially connect with future mentors, aligning well with my goals of gaining hands-on experience before medical school. Given the difficulty in obtaining fellowships, he recommended technician roles as a viable alternative. This advice felt practical and aligned with my goals of gaining meaningful, clinical experience. It’s encouraging to know that technician roles are well-regarded by medical schools and provide significant insight into medical practice.

The student’s entrepreneurial background added an interesting dimension to our conversation. As someone involved in the Synthetic Biology Club and planning for the iGEM competition, I appreciated his advice on exploring partnerships with companies interested in collaborating on our projects. This entrepreneurial perspective highlighted the flexibility that can exist within a traditional medical path and reminded me that building connections beyond the medical field can be beneficial. Whether through synthetic biology or future collaborative research, I’m inspired to explore creative ways to fund and expand our club’s projects, and I’m grateful for his offer to discuss ideas for iGEM.

Finally, his mention of UW-Madison opened my eyes to potential regional networks that I hadn’t fully considered. With UW-Madison’s strong reputation, it’s worth exploring further for both networking and potential internship or research opportunities. I plan to follow up on this advice by connecting with faculty or alumni involved in research at UW-Madison or attending related seminars, as these experiences could provide valuable exposure and build connections within the medical community.

In sum, this conversation left me feeling both reassured and inspired to take actionable steps toward my goals. His journey underscored the importance of resilience and adaptability in pursuing a medical career, and his practical insights have empowered me with a more strategic approach to my preparation. From early MCAT prep and structured study plans to strategic essay writing and exploring diverse experiences, I now have a roadmap that feels realistic and aligned with my strengths and interests. This interview not only provided me with concrete advice but also deepened my commitment to approaching each step with intention and curiosity as I continue on the path to medical school.

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.