MCAT Testing
Standardized Testing, Medical School, Studying, Continued Education, Careers
Curated By
Nayely Gonzalez
Nayely Gonzalez is a doctoral student at Indiana University Bloomington studying Counseling Psychology. Nayely graduated with her Bachelor's degree from Ripon College in 2016, double majoring in Psychology and English. Her research interests include human sexuality, Latinx mental health, sexual assault prevention strategies among college students, and clinical practice with LGBTQ populations.
In This Guide:
Preparing for the MCAT is a whirlwind filled with stress and hopes for the future. Below are examples of what someone about to take this exam may be thinking and how to approach talking about the MCAT in an encouraging manner.
They Might Be Thinking:
- This is the most STRESSED I have ever been.
- I can’t do this. I am going to fail.
- There is no way I am going to find time to study for the MCAT.
- This is the most important test of my life.
- I am going to have a breakdown.
- I’m so stupid!
- I’ve been studying so hard! Why can’t I get this?
- My entire future is dependent on this one exam.
- I’m such a bad test-taker.
- I’m working hard and I’m not improving. I must be incompetent/inadequate and not as smart as I thought I was.
- I can’t disappoint my family. They’re counting on me to do well.
- I just want this to be over.
Words That Might Be Encouraging:
- Is there anything I can do to help you get through this tough time?
- I really admire your decision to continue to pursue your education.
- If you want to talk about what you’re going through, you can come to me.
- Your dedication is truly inspiring. I wish I had your level of perseverance.
- You don’t have to go through this stressful experience all by yourself. I’m here for you if you feel you need it.
- This test doesn’t define who you are. You are still the same hard-working individual you always were.
- I know you feel this way right now. Remember when you [talk about a difficult situation he/she/they overcame]? You can get through this.
- No matter how you do, I am proud of you.
- It sounds like you are taking the necessary steps to do well on the MCAT. I want you to know that I believe in you.
- I admire your passion to want to help others. You are going to make a wonderful doctor.
Words That Might Be Discouraging:
- Calm down. It’s just a test.
- You can always take it again if you don’t do well.
- If you fail, take it as a sign you weren’t meant to be a doctor.
- [Constantly pestering about the MCAT]
- Maybe you should become a nurse instead.
- If you don’t find a way to control your anxiety now, you will have trouble in med school and beyond.
- You’re gonna buy me a house once you’re a doctor, right?
- I could never do what you’re doing.
- You need to get this score or else you’re screwed.
- I guess I’m never going to see you since you’ll be studying all the time.
- You just have to study harder.
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