By Julia Ginter-Berriman
In January, I completed a major milestone in my academic career as a pre-med student:
taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Preparing for the MCAT is a significant
undertaking requiring diligence, patience, and sacrifice since it is a seven-and-a-half hour exam
that tests one’s understanding of many different subjects. Medical school admissions are
incredibly competitive, so it is important to prepare adequately for the MCAT to have the best
chance possible to score well. The Barger Leadership Institute grant allowed me to offset costs
from MCAT preparation materials, including practice questions and practice exams, which
alleviated stress while preparing for the test. It also provided me with a variety of study resources
in order to succeed.
My career goals include going to medical school, and ultimately becoming a leader in the
healthcare field specifically in patient care. Within these larger goals, short-term success through
MCAT preparation also required utilizing leadership principles. I used the principle of “Work to
Learn” throughout my studies, which enabled me to set up and stick to a rigorous study schedule,
and to take as many practice exams as possible. I prioritized active learning and applied concepts
that I studied through practice problems, reflecting on results, and then adjusting the study
process accordingly. This principle challenged me, because studying for such a long period of
time contributed to feelings of burnout throughout the preparation process. It was difficult to feel
motivated to study while sometimes seeing little improvement in my practice exam scores. To
combat these feelings, I took frequent breaks, studied in different locations, spent time with
friends and family, and did things that brought me joy, such as reading and working out.
I will continue to use the principles of work to learn and other leadership principles in
order to be successful in medical school, in my future career as a physician, and in my personal
life.
