PAULINE HUYNH

So I got my MCAT score today

I screamed. And cried.

I got a 40. 13P/12V/15B. According to this exam’s distribution, my score was in the top 99.5-99.8 percentile.

Are you kidding me? I never thought I’d score that high. I walked out of the exam laughing because I didn’t want to start bawling. I complained left and right about how the AAMC full lengths weren’t representative of the real thing, of how I didn’t understand one particular bio passage at all, and of how I didn’t know the equations for a couple of the physics questions. I came out thinking that I scored around 30-33, when my practice AAMC average was a 36.5. My highest practice score, a fluke in itself, was a 38.

And now…I have no words. Although I was hoping for a 35, I would have been so happy with a 30, because it would mean that I wouldn’t have to retake the exam. All the 2014 slots are filled, and the January 2015 slots are mostly out of state. If I had to retake the exam, I would’ve had to pay for plane tickets or wait for the new exam. To think that I don’t have to worry about scheduling a retake of fitting in MCAT studying into my schedule…is such a relief.

More than that, I can now focused on my opportunities past graduation. I can focus on finding work during my gap year. I can finally look at the MSAR and look through the list of medical schools without worrying about having my score dictate my list of potential choices. I can apply to schools that UCSF, Harvard, Yale, and not worry that my stats will bar me from admission (extracurriculars, personal statements, and interview skills are another thing entirely).

Even though the school year’s just started, I feel like a huge weightis off my shoulders. I spent 2 months studying, cramming in 8-12 hour days for weeks. I’m so glad that the hard work paid off!

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Hi there, I'm

Pauline

I am a resident physician who enjoys writing about her life in between deadlines, kitten cuddles, and caffeine-fueled adventures. I write primarily for myself, but would love to share the journey with you.

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