To Prep course or not to Prep course?

This is a question that every medical student asks themselves. Preparing for the USMLE Step 1 or COMLEX 1 is a daunting task. Seeking professional help definitely sounds like a great idea. However, the large price tags that these review courses carry often leaves the student wondering if it is worth it. Will these courses properly train them to achieve great success on their boards? "Is it really worth it?"

You are a medical student. You are poor. Boards are the most important single test you will take in your life! Should you give a month's rent to professionals to help you pass them?

Here's the good news, you don't have to! USMLE step 1 is easy to pass if you devise your own plan, get some good books, and work hard day in and day out for several months. You have gotten this far, you can do this on your own.

BUT..........some of you out there need some help. No, I don't mean you're not smart enough. I mean some of you out there need a push from time to time. You all know who you are. Prep courses offer you a push and also great leadership. Like I said earlier these people are professionals! They know how to motivate you!

Also.......they have great materials and knowledge. Prep courses tend to use their own study materials (think about what that costs) and also have a tremendous amount of knowledge about the test. They know all the secrets and tips to get every last point out of your brain and onto that test. Furthermore, if you are trying to find that little advantage over your fellow colleagues, a prep course could be it.

Ultimately, you get out what you put in. It doesn’t matter if you are taking a prep course or not. In both circumstances you will have to work hard. But with a prep course you will work hard in the right direction and acheieve your USMLE step 1 goals!