Hey everyone!
It is hard to believe it is September already! This summer went quickly and was fun yet busy. Like many of my classmates, I spent the summer preparing for the MCAT (Medical College Admissions Test) or other entrance exams. For me, preparing for the exam was a challenge because it tests many of the basics sciences I learned 6-7 years ago as an undergraduate. The exam is one of the most important aspects of medical school applications, so I invested a considerable amount of time preparing. Preparing for the test was one of my biggest concerns when deciding on a program to continue my education.
About a year ago this time I struggled over the decision as to whether or not to enroll at PCOM or another post-bac program. To me, the greatest advantages of the program at PCOM was the medical school level courses and the possibility of graduating with a certificate or Masters degree. The only drawback to me was that the courses were not designed to directly prepare you for the MCAT. Other programs advertised this as their main goal, which influenced their successful placement of students into medical school.
After finishing the exam, I can say once again that I am very happy with my decision to go to PCOM. The courses over the past year thoroughly prepared me for the Biology section (most important section) of the exam. Furthermore, I have heard from alumni of the Biomed program, that it helped them prepare for boards in medical school, definitely an added bonus!
It has been hard, but I have learned that although becoming a physician is a long process, it is important to look at the time as an opportunity to learn and master the profession. School, exams, and other requirements seem like part of a big checklist you need to complete, but I hope I remember to keep focus on the goal of becoming a great physician and not just a physician. It has been extremely encouraging and rewarding seeing classmates and alumni go on to do great things with their education!
