Crash Course: Three Things I Learned Taking the PCAT Early

The PCAT -- pretty much the most terrifying exam a pre-pharmacy student has to take. This exam, in some cases, can determine what pharmacy schools you could possibly get into.

I have never been the best test-taker. Even back when I took the ACT, I liked doing what I called a "test-run." It isn't necessarily a "test run" since the score still does count, but in my mind, I was getting a feel for the test, and then would be able to take it again, knowing what to expect the second time around. So, I did the same with the PCAT.

Here's what I learned:

1. Practice Timing Yourself

I took my first PCAT about two weeks after my (crazy) fall semester ended. That meant I only had a few days after all the holidays blew by. While I did try my best to study throughout the semester, it was definitely challenging with my course load. In the end, my school work took priority, since I knew I could take the PCAT again if needed. With my lack of time to prepare, I couldn't adequately prep for the time constraint of the test.

If you are a pre-pharmacy student reading this, read carefully: YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY "SMART" ENOUGH TO TAKE THE TEST.

A lot of my friends, myself included, were concerned about not being academically prepared for the exam. Trust me, you probably are. What you aren't prepared for, is the lack of time you truly have. So, my best advice is to take as many practice exams as you can, using the time limitations the test uses. It'll help a lot.

2. Dress Comfortably, but Simply

You, of course, want to be as comfortable as you can be while taking the exam. You will likely take it at a testing center, with many other kids in the room sitting at cubicles near you. It might feel a little bit chilly in the room, even though there are a lot of other kids in there. You don't need to look your absolute best in the testing center. Wear something that you feel comfortable in! This is likely one of the most secure exams you will ever take. Before entering the testing room, the proctor will check your arms, behind your ears, in your shoes --almost any way they think you might cheat. So with that being said, make sure you dress simply. While layers aren't a bad idea, too many will get tedious. The proctor needs to see your arms, so anything that is easy to get on and off will work.

3. Don't get too overwhelmed

My last piece of advice is, don't stress yourself out too much! At the end of the day, it is just an exam. If you take it, and don't do as well as you would've liked, you have the opportunity to take it again. Don't put too much pressure on yourself. Just go into the exam and do your best! One of my best friends moms shared a study with me when I was in high school. It stated that if you, before going into the exam, took a brief "super hero" pose, you were more confident in your ability, thus increasing your score. Try it next time. It really does work!

As always, stay positive, and never stop working towards your goals!

Allison