Coach Sami
Hi! I am originally from Buffalo, NY (go Bills), and I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Canisius University and later completed a Master of Arts in Medical Sciences at Loyola University Chicago. My path to medicine has been anything but linear. I entered college intending to pursue clinical psychology, and with no physicians in my family, I never imagined that becoming a doctor was within reach. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I took a hard look at the future I wanted and decided to take the risk of pursuing medicine
At the time, I was a junior, and I had never taken a college-level science course. General chemistry was a shock, and the transition forced me to rethink how I learned. Over time, I developed stronger study habits, became more comfortable asking for help, and learned how to evaluate what was working instead of simply putting in more hours.
That process taught me that academic growth rarely comes from effort alone. It comes from using your time intentionally, confronting your weaknesses, and adjusting your approach when the results are not there.
My MCAT journey reinforced every part of that lesson. During my first attempt, I focused almost entirely on content review. I avoided topics that intimidated me, including metabolism, which I had never studied in a formal course. I was also managing serious family challenges without enough support. The result fell well below my go. I stepped away from the exam and worked full-time as a pediatric medical assistant, gaining the clinical experience that reminded me why I had chosen medicine.
When I returned to the MCAT, I incorporated more practice but continued to avoid some of my biggest weaknesses. Once again, my score did not reflect what I knew I could achieve. The MCAT challenged me academically and emotionally. After feeling like I had repeatedly hit the same wall and like I was not cut out for medical school, I enrolled in Loyola’s medical sciences master’s program to strengthen my scientific foundation. I also joined the Brem Method’s Loyola MAMS course and learned that asking for help was part of succeeding. With a stronger foundation, better support, and a more honest approach to my weaknesses, I raised my score 13 points from my original score.
As a coach, I bring firsthand experience with many of the obstacles MCAT students face. I understand how it feels to be overwhelmed by a difficult passage, struggle with timing, question your abilities, or work hard without seeing your score change. I also understand the unique pressure of retaking the exam and wondering whether you can close the gap between your current performance and your potential.
My coaching style is supportive, direct, and individualized. Together, we will identify what is actually limiting your score and build a plan around your needs. We may work on balancing content review with practice, breaking down complex passages, improving timing, reviewing.