- What is culturally relevant teaching? How does it work?
Culturally relevant teaching is using aspects of the student’s culture to explain concepts. Research shows that students are more successful at retaining and applying information when they can relate information to their own lives. We use aspects of Black American culture to introduce scientific concepts tested on the MCAT.
For example, the “plum pudding” model of an atom is commonly taught, but what is plum pudding? Instead, we use gumbo to explain early atomic structures.
- What is mindful studying? How does it work?
When you have negative educational experiences, it can be difficult to believe you can master the information. Maybe your teacher said you were bad at science, and now you think you’re bad at science too. But what if you actually enjoy science, just not that teacher?
Mindful studying is incorporating mindfulness into your study sessions. It makes you aware of how your mental state is impacting your ability to process and retain information. It requires you to process your previous experiences with the information before starting to review. It also requires you to check in with your body and thoughts at regular intervals as you study.
- Who should do MCAT self-study?
The Self-study program provides a weekly suggested study schedule as well as activities for review. Students who are self-motivated or early in their MCAT study process, desire a moderate score improvement, or have > 12 weeks to prepare would benefit from self-study.
- Who should do MCAT tutoring?
Tutoring provides all aspects of the self-study program, with added structure. You will receive an individually designed study schedule that is adapted based on your tutoring sessions. You have the opportunity to discuss practice questions and content with your tutor, and will develop a testing strategy with the guidance of your tutor.
Students who desire an individualized MCAT prep program, have previously prepared for and taken the MCAT, need clarification of practice materials or content, desire a significant score improvement, or have at least 4-6 weeks to prepare would benefit from tutoring.
- How does tutoring work?
Prior to your initial session, you will be required to complete a practice test and error log. You will receive a study plan based on your performance on your practice exam. You will be able to schedule up to 2 sessions each week. Each session will focus on developing your strategy by doing practice passages.
- How long will I need to study for the MCAT?
In short, it depends. Every student is starting with a different foundation, and that foundation will determine how much content still needs to be learned. In general, MCAT prep is separated into 2 phases: content review and question practice. Some recommend beginning question practice ASAP and integrating content review throughout. While this does work at some point, there is content that must be understood before attempting questions. You may also find that reviewing content doesn’t mean you know how to apply it in various scenarios.
Students spend anywhere from 1 week to many years studying for the MCAT. To minimize the time it takes you to prepare, make every activity you do worthwhile. Study actively (take notes, ask yourself questions, make connections), and maintain a growth mindset. Remember every day is an opportunity to try something different, and effective studying requires you to make mistakes. It’s okay if life derails your plans; this isn’t the last time. Learn how you adapt, and keep pushing. You got this!