Berkeley Review MCAT Course Information

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Berkeley Review MCAT Course Information

“Berkeley Review helps turn 26s into 32s, 30s into 35s, and 36s into 40s”

Berkeley Review operates live courses at only three locations, Berkeley (CA), West Los Angeles (CA), and Irvine (CA). We limit our locations so that we can put forth an all-star teaching team at every location. A few students every session travel thousands of miles to take our course, although the majority of our students are local.

Quick Course Facts:

• 1) Berkeley Review offers MCAT-only study centers. The power of being in an environment where everyone is studying for just one exam and everyone on the staff is an expert in just one exam cannot be overestimated. It’s both motivating and extremely helpful for getting targeted assistance. No other company can offer this unique environment.

• 2) Todd and/or Dale (the founders) still teach classes at all centers. Having the authors of the world’s best test prep books as your instructors and your office hour tutors is available to each Berkeley Review student.

• 3) The MCAT teaching staff includes two award-winning college professors. The honest truth about teaching is that very few people are naturally great at it and when you’re lucky enough to have one of these amazing teachers, it changes your life. At Berkeley Review, when we are fortunate enough to land one of these life-changing teachers, we do all we can to keep them for years. That’s why we have so many teachers on staff with over ten years of MCAT teaching experience. No other company can offer as much teaching experience as Berkeley Review.

Key Features of the Course
Student-to-Teacher Ratio of 4 : 1 to 8 : 1, depending on the season.
Class Size: 20.3 students on average (Maximums range from 24 to 28 and depend on season and location)
We’re MCAT only, so we know MCAT strategies and techniques better than anyone

Berkeley Location: 64 Shattuck Square Suite 200, Berkeley, CA 94704
Our Center includes a dedicated study room where students may stay for hours, a spacious classroom that comfortably seats 30 students, an office hour room, four whiteboards per room, a supportive atmosphere with instructors around for help, and we are situated next to the cleanest BART station entrance in downtown Berkeley. The last point might seem odd, but we chose our location very carefully, so that our students could come and go from class in the most hassle-free manner (which is important in Berkeley, especially in the evening). Coming from campus, the campus shuttle stop, or BART, you’ll find a clean, vagrant-free path to our class.

Irvine Location: 1530 W Concordia Drive, Irvine, CA 92612
We teach at Concordia University, which includes a lounge area where students may study, a spacious classroom that comfortably seats 26 students, internet access for practice exams, three whiteboards, and state of the art audio-visual equipment, and free parking. The location is quiet and students can concentrate when studying.

Westwood Location: 1074 Gayley Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Our Center includes a waiting area where students may study, a spacious classroom that comfortably seats 28 students, has two additional study tables, a snack table, four whiteboards, and state of the art audio-visual equipment, and a laptop computer area for computer prep work. There is no other center in California designed 100% for premedical students preparing for the MCAT.

(Outstanding) Instructors/Tutors
Our instructor team at each location consists of six to eight experienced teachers delivering high-quality lectures. Our lectures are painstakingly developed and redeveloped several times per year, year in and year out. Following feedback after every session, we make adjustments to the course to always stay current. Being an MCAT-only program, we have a HUGE advantage in this aspect, because it is easier for us to update instantly than companies offering assistance for several exams at hundreds of locations.

Our teaching philosophy is simple. Help students learn to do better on multiple-choice questions on the MCAT. This entails building a science vocabulary, understanding many concepts, thinking logically, becoming fast at integrating multiple concepts, avoiding careless errors, and mastering test-taking skills. Our teachers are selected for their ability to teach these skills. Some teachers are hired to teach just two to three of our lecture topics (we have forty-four total topic lectures as well as five skills lectures), to ensure that every class has excellent instruction at those specific subjects. Our teachers are experts at what they teach.

We have been fortunate enough to once again keep the core of our teaching team intact this year including a Pepperdine professor and a Friedmann honoree. We have added a few new tutors to the team at each location this year. Listed below are members of our teaching and tutoring team at our three sites.

Chemistry Staff

Todd Bennett, FIVE-time OUTSTANDING TEACHING ASSISTANT Award Winner (at UCSD, UCB, and UCI), Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Award (IVC), Primary Developer of Hyperlearning MCAT Course, co-Founder of Berkeley Review, 23 years of MCAT teaching experience, Author of Berkeley Review Chemistry Books, 6.89 Student Evaluation Rating in chemistry (1-7 scale)
Teaches fifteen to twenty of the science lectures at southern California locations and four to eight of the general chemistry lectures at the Berkeley location.

Cecile Santos, Pepperdine Chemistry Professor, Award-Winning Teaching Assistant as a Graduate Student at UCLA, Student-Choice Outstanding Lecturer Recognition, 10 years of MCAT teaching experience, 6.78 Student Evaluation Rating
Teaches two to four of the seven organic chemistry lectures in southern California

Cody B, Five Sessions of MCAT teaching experience, Outstanding Tutor Award winner, Experienced Undergraduate Academic Mentor and Tutor, 6.53 Student Evaluation Rating
Teaches four of the ten general chemistry lectures and three of the seven organic chemistry lectures in Irvine

Jeff P, Two Sessions of MCAT teaching experience, Seven years experience as a Private Science Tutor, Undergraduate Science Workshop Leader at UC Berkeley, no Student Evaluation Rating at this time.
Teaches eight lectures in physical sciences in Westwood

Will H, Outstanding UCB Teaching Assistant, Four Sessions of MCAT experience, Outstanding Teaching Award-winner, 6+ Student Evaluation Rating consistently
Teaches the organic chemistry lectures in Berkeley

Physics Staff

Todd Bennett, Winner of a coveted Faculty Teaching Award (Hartnell College), co-Author of Berkeley Review Physics Books, 14 years of MCAT physics teaching experience, 6.87 Student Evaluation Rating in physics
Teaches the six to eight of the physics lectures in Westwood and Irvine

Khoi N, Outstanding UCB Teaching Assistant (former), Eleven Years of MCAT experience, Outstanding Tutoring Award-winner, 6+ Student Evaluation Rating consistently
Teaches all of the physics lectures in Berkeley

Biology Staff

Dale Schmidt, co-Founder Berkeley Review, Author of Berkeley Review Biology Books, 19 years of MCAT teaching experience, 6.59 Student Evaluation Rating
Teaches the biology lectures in Berkeley

Andrew E, UCI Medical Student, Tutor/Instructor for six years at UCLA , Sixteen Sessions of MCAT experience, 6.50 Student Evaluation Rating
Teaches the molecular biology lectures in southern California.

Chelsea P, Graduate Student, Department-Select Tutor as undergraduate, Nine Sessions of MCAT experience, 6.05 Student Evaluation Rating
Teaches the physiology and cellular biology lectures in Irvine.

Teodora K, Amazing UCLA Tutor, Two Sessions of MCAT experience, Skilled Tutor in Office Hours, 6+ Student Evaluation Rating her first session
Teaches the physiology and cellular biology lectures in Westwood.

Alexa G, 2010 UCI College of Medicine Post-Bac Program Instructor, Excellent Tutor, Two Sessions of MCAT experience, no Student Evaluation Rating at this time
Teaches the genetics and biochemistry lectures

Roland P, UCLA Medical Student, Tutor/Instructor for three years at UCLA , Five Sessions of MCAT experience, 6.33 Student Evaluation Rating
Teaches specialty lectures and review sessions in Westwood.

Naomi S, Amazing Biology Tutor at UCLA, Two Sessions of MCAT experience, 6.20 Student Evaluation Rating
Teaches genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology in Westwood.

Verbal Reasoning Staff

Patricio A, Over Ten years of experience teaching verbal reasoning, Specializes in Improving Question Analyzing Skills, Consistently has 6+ Student Evaluation Rating
Teaches the verbal reasoning lectures in Berkeley

Kate J, Top of the chart on MCAT Verbal exam, Verbal Reasoning Expert, Two Sessions of MCAT experience, 6.00 Student Evaluation Rating in her first session
Teaches the verbal reasoning lectures in Berkeley

Dr. Chris Lindshield, The world’s greatest verbal instructor, Author of verbal improvement books, Twelve years of MCAT teaching experience, Developer of Verbal Analysis System, Never below 6.5 on evaluations in his teaching tenure.
Teaches seasonal verbal reasoning seminars in southern California

*Student Evaluation Score based Student Evaluations of teaching on scale of 1 - 7 (7 being Excellent)

Seasonal Classes
Berkeley Session 1, Session 2, and Session 3 (aiming for April/May exams)
Classes start the second week of January and go until the last week of April (four to six classes per week, meeting Monday through Thursday weekly plus an occasional Friday and/or Saturday).

Berkeley Session 4, Session 5, and Session 6 (aiming for August/September exams)
Classes start the last week of May and go until the second week of August (four to six classes per week, meeting Monday through Thursday weekly plus an occasional Friday and/or Saturday).

Irvine Session 1 (aiming for January exams)
Classes start in early October and go until the first week of January (four to five classes per week). The class meets Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays (with some days having two classes back-to-back).

Irvine Session 2 and Session 3 (aiming for March/April/May exams)
Classes start the first week of January and go until the first week of April (four to five classes per week, meeting Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays weekly plus an occasional Wednesday). By doubling up lectures on certain days in January and February, students can finish lectures as early as the middle of March.

Irvine Session 4 and Session 5 (aiming for August/September exams)
Classes start the second week of June (after UCI finals finish) and go until the third week of August (four to five classes per week, meeting three weekdays and on Saturdays and Sundays with an occasional extra weekday).

Westwood Session 1 (aiming for January exams)
Classes start in early October and go until the first week of January (four to five classes per week). The class meets two weeknights and twice on Saturdays each week with occasional Sunday lectures.

Westwood Session 2 and Session 3 (aiming for March/April exams)
Classes start the first week of January and go until the first week of April (six classes per week for the first three weeks then four classes per week for the remainder, meeting two weeknights and twice on Saturdays).

Westwood Session 4 and Session 5 (aiming for April/May exams)
Classes start the last week of January and go until the third week of April (four to five classes per week, meeting two weeknights and twice on Sundays with an occasional extra weekday)

Westwood Session 6 (aiming for August exams)
Classes start the second week of May and go until the last week of July (five to six classes per week, meeting two weeknights and twice on Saturdays, and twice on Sundays for the first half and then four days a week for the second half)

Westwood Session 7 and Session 8 (aiming for August/September exams)
Classes start the third week of June and go until the third week of August (four to five classes per week, meeting four weekdays and once on either Saturday or Sundays with occasional extra weekend day).

Lecture Topics
(Lecture sequence and lecture outlines may vary slightly from location to location due to the varying curriculum from university to university)
Biology 1 Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells, Cellular Function, Viruses, and Biological Molecules
Biology 2 Metabolism, Enzymes, Kinetics, Glycolysis, Kreb's Cycle, and Electron Transport-Oxidative Phosphoryllation
Biology 3 Beta Oxidation, Gluconeogenesis, Urea Cycle, and Calvin Cycle
Biology 4 Introduction to Nucleic Acids, DNA, RNA, Replication, Transcription, and Translation
Biology 5 Genetic Information, More Translation, Genetic Engineering, and Recombination
Biology 6 Cumulative Review of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, and Biochemistry

Gen Chem 1 Stoichiometry, Limiting Reagents, Concentration Units, Dilution, and Solubility
Gen Chem 2 Atomic Theory, Electronic Configurations, Periodic Trends, Excitation/Relaxation, and VSEPR Theory
Gen Chem 3 Equilibrium Constant, Equilibrium, Le Châtelier's Principle, Reaction Rate, and Reaction Order
Gen Chem 4 Weak Acids & Bases, Strong Acids & Bases, pH Scale, Neutralization, and Buffers
Gen Chem 5 pH Calculations, Polyprotic Acids, Titration Curves, Multiple Equivalent Points, and Indicators
Gen Chem 6 Gas Definitions, Kinetic Theory of Gases, Gas Laws, Partial Pressure, and Effusion
Gen Chem 7 Phases Changes, Heat Exchange, Phase Diagrams, Vapor Pressure, and Raoult's Law
Gen Chem 8 Enthalpy, Entropy, Free Energy, Calorimetry, Bond Energies, Reaction Rate, and Order
Gen Chem 9 Classical Experiments in Atomic Structure, Isotopes, Nuclear Chemistry, and Half-Lives
Gen Chem 10 Balancing Redox Reactions, Electromotive Force, Electrochemical Cells, and Nernst Equation
Gen Chem 11 Overview of Chemistry Topics, Review of Heavily Tested Topics, and Test Strategy

Org Chem 1 Organic Structure, Resonance, Hybridization, Aromaticity, and Steric Hindrance
Org Chem 2 IR Spectroscopy, UV-Visible Spectroscopy, NMR Spectroscopy, and Structure Elucidation
Org Chem 3 Stereochemistry, Enantiomers, Diastereomers, Meso, and Nucleophilic Substitution
Org Chem 4 Elimination, Diels Alder Reaction, Terpenes, and Free Radicals
Org Chem 5 Carbonyl Reactions, Protecting Groups, Acetals, Hemiacetals, and Redox Chemistry
Org Chem 6 Titration, Isoelectric pH, Electrophoresis, Sequencing, Affinity Chromatography, and Protein Structure
Org Chem 7 Chromatography, Distillation, Extraction, Recrystallization, and Basic Lab Ideology
Org Chem 8 Overview of Chemistry Topics, Review of Heavily Tested Topics, and Test Strategy

Physics 1 Translational Motion, Kinematics, Acceleration, Velocity, and Projectile Motion
Physics 2 Forces, Force Diagrams, Circular Motion, and Newton's Laws
Physics 3 Potential Energy, Kinetic Energy, Work, Heat, and Momentum
Physics 4 Transfer of Momentum, Transfer of Energy, Friction, and Gravity
Physics 5 Periodic Motion, Beats, Period, Frequency, Cyclic Processes, Springs, Pendulums, and Waves
Physics 6 Sound, Doppler Effect, Beat Frequency, Decibel Scale, and Longitudinal Waves
Physics 7 Fluid Dynamics, Bernoulli's Law, Archimedes' Principle, Hydraulics, and Solids
Physics 8 Electrostatics, Electric Fields, Magnetic Fields, and Motion of Charged Particles
Physics 9 Simple Circuits, Current, Resistance, Voltage, Circuit Rules, and Circuit Features
Physics 10 Light Spectrum, Electromagnetic Radiation, Refraction, Reflection, Mirrors, and Lenses

Physiology 1 Central Nervous System, Peripheral Nervous System, and Skeletal/Muscular System
Physiology 2 Cardiovascular Physiology, Hemoglobin, Myoglobin, and Circulatory System
Physiology 3 Gastrointestinal System, Renal Physiology, Nephron Dynamics, and Regulation of GI
Physiology 4 Reproductive Systems (M/F), Female Hormone Cycle, Gastrulation, and Development
Physiology 5 Immune System, B-Cells, T-Cells, Antigens, Antibodies, Defense Mechanisms, and Hormones
Physiology 6 Physiological Pathways, Integration of Pathways, Physiological Feedback Mechanisms

Verbal 1 Introduction to the Verbal Reasoning Test, Eclectic Topic Overview, and Establishing a Game Plan
Verbal 2 Mapping (“Useful?”), Typical Questions ("the List"), Active Reading, and Letting Go of Science Reading Habits
Verbal 3 Introduction to Speed Reading, Effective Skimming, Test Timing, and Building Your Testing Strategy
Verbal 4 Critical Reading for Ideas and Concepts, Pre-reading Questions, and Recognizing the 'Best' Answer
Verbal 5 Recognizing Topics, Concentration Skills, and Time Allotment During Exam
Essay Comp Establishing an Outline, The Essay Formula, and Making it Look Good

Course Materials to be used with lectures (all passages include full explanations)

• Biology Text 1 (Neuro, Heart, Lung, Kidney, GI, and Reproductive Physiology and Immunology) 84 passages
  Biology Text 2 (Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Genetics) 84 passages

• General Chemistry Text 1 (Stoichiometry, Atomic Structure, Equilibrium, Acids & Bases, and Titration Curves) 68 passages
  General Chemistry Text 2 (Gases, Phases, Thermodynamics, Kinetics, and Electrochemistry) 63 passages

• Organic Chemistry Text 1 (Organic Structure, Spectroscopy, Stereochemistry, and Hydrocarbons) 53 passages
  Organic Chemistry Text 2 (Carbonyls, Carbohydrates, Amino Acids, and Laboratory Techniques) 54 passages

• Physics Text 1 (Translational Motion, Forces, Work, Momentum, Torque, and Waves) 50 passages
  Physics Text 2 (Sound, Fluids & Solids, Electrostatics, Circuits, Light, and Optics) 50 passages

• Verbal Reasoning Text includes 105 passages with full answer explanations and test strategy tips
  Essay Composition Text includes sample essays and a strategy formula for writing a strong essay

Practice Exams
(9 Full-Length CBT Exams, all come with 21 Passages and detailed answer explanations)

• TBR Practice Test I . . . . .Good starter exam (difficult PS, easy VR, medium BS)

• TBR Practice Test II . . . . Mid-range Exam (medium PS, hard VR, medium BS)

• TBR Practice Test III . . . .Punishment Exam (difficult PS, difficult VR, difficult BS)

• TBR Practice Test IV . . . . Mid-range Exam (medium PS, medium VR, hard BS)

• TBR Practice Test V . . . . .Difficult Exam (hard PS, medium VR, hard BS)

• TBR Practice Test VI . . . . Mid-range Exam (semi-easy PS, medium VR, medium BS)

• TBR Practice Test VII . . . .Hard Exam (hard PS, medium VR, hard BS)

• TBR Practice Test VIII . . . Mid-range Exam (medium PS, semi-easy VR, medium BS)

• TBR Practice Test IX . . . . Mid-range Exam (semi-hard PS, semi-easy VR, semi-hard BS)

note that the difficulty assessment is based on student feedback, and not everyone agreed on the exact difficulty of each exam or section within an exam

Extra Materials for Continued Review

• Verbal Reasoning 32 In-Class Passages and 21 Test Passages with complete answer explanations

• Physical Sciences 14 Passages in Two Topical Tests with complete answer explanations

• General Chemistry Problem Session Passage Sets 14 Passages with complete answer explanations

• Cumulative Chemistry Tests 14 Passages with complete answer explanations

• In-Class Passages 40 Passages with complete answer explanations

• Organic Chemistry Problem Session Passage Sets 12 Passages with complete answer explanations

• Cumulative Chemistry Tests 14 Passages with complete answer explanations

• In-Class Passages 28 Passages with complete answer explanations

• Biology Integrative Review I 11 Passages with complete answer explanations

• Integrative Review II 11 Passages with complete answer explanations

• Physics Problem Session Passage Sets 14 Passages with complete answer explanations

• Cumulative Chemistry Tests 14 Passages with complete answer explanations

• In-Class Passages 50 Passages with complete answer explanations

• Miscellaneous MCAT Grab Bags I and II 20± Passages with complete answer explanations

Supplemental Materials (for application assistance)

• Application Guideline (A detailed timeline for and statistical look at applying to medical school)

• Interview Tips (Collected comments from people who have given and received interviews)

Just a thought: how 'bout an online class?

Combined altogether iof all your tutors how many have taken the latest iteration i.e. computer based MCAT?

Originally Posted by mzblue

Just a thought: how 'bout an online class?

It unfortunately wouldn't work with our approach. While lectures could be done that way, feedback during class to help steer the class (not all classes are of the same level) and in-person office hours (that's where you really learn how someone is doing) are a major factor in how we do things. I also think that the owners just don't want to be a big company.

Originally Posted by luckviii

Combined altogether iof all your tutors how many have taken the latest iteration i.e. computer based MCAT?

Any teacher hired in the last four years has taken the exam. Of the teachers older than that, about two-thirds have taken an MCAT in a CBT format.

For some of us who are tight on money, is it possible to take sections of the class?

Originally Posted by BerkReviewTeach

Irvine Location: 1530 W Concordia Drive, Irvine, CA 92612
We teach at Concordia University, which includes a lounge area where students may study, a spacious classroom that comfortably seats 26 students, internet access for practice exams, three whiteboards, and state of the art audio-visual equipment, and free parking. The location is quiet and students can concentrate when studying.

Do you know if the lounges are open 24 hours? I'm trying to find a place I could study at that's open all night...but somewhere comfy because this is probably gonna be an intense 12 weeks.

Originally Posted by Swagster

For some of us who are tight on money, is it possible to take sections of the class?

Hmmm, that's a good question although I have not heard anything like that especially since they rotate subjects throughout the week instead of for example: teaching physics one week, biology the next, ochem the next, etc.

I'm also wondering if we go ahead and decide on enrolling, is there a payment plan? Or is the payment all due by a certain date? These courses are so expensive. I mean sure we're all future doctors (hopefully) but we right now are just BROKE college students.

Originally Posted by Swagster

For some of us who are tight on money, is it possible to take sections of the class?

We don't do things that way, because of the overlap between our lectures in different topics. For instance, our fluids and solids lecture in physics and gases lecture in general chemistry complement one another, so that information is presented in one lecture and questions are emphasized in the other. We cross-polinate several lectures, including verbal reasoning and science test skills.

Originally Posted by greathl21

Do you know if the lounges are open 24 hours? I'm trying to find a place I could study at that's open all night...but somewhere comfy because this is probably gonna be an intense 12 weeks.

It's a college campus, so during the school year there appears to be something open most of the time. During the summer, I'm not sure though, because I've never been there in the late evening or night.

Originally Posted by greathl21

Hmmm, that's a good question although I have not heard anything like that especially since they rotate subjects throughout the week instead of for example: teaching physics one week, biology the next, ochem the next, etc.

I'm also wondering if we go ahead and decide on enrolling, is there a payment plan? Or is the payment all due by a certain date? These courses are so expensive. I mean sure we're all future doctors (hopefully) but we right now are just BROKE college students.

There is a payment plan (with no interest and no fees). You should speak to the registrar when you call next, and they'll work out a personalized plan. You should also ask about discounts, because if you are a member of Care Extenders or Clinical Care Extenders in southern California, then there is a $100 discount.

Originally Posted by BerkReviewTeach

There is a payment plan (with no interest and no fees). You should speak to the registrar when you call next, and they'll work out a personalized plan. You should also ask about discounts, because if you are a member of Care Extenders or Clinical Care Extenders in southern California, then there is a $100 discount.

Yay for clinical care extender! I'll give them a call to find out more info. Thanks for the quick response.

What are the dates for the MCAT courses at:

Westwood Location: 1074 Gayley Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90025

Originally Posted by greathl21

Yay for clinical care extender! I'll give them a call to find out more info. Thanks for the quick response.

You can also PM me if that would be easier.

Originally Posted by yankswin2011

What are the dates for the MCAT courses at:

Westwood Location: 1074 Gayley Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90025

There are three summer options.

One starts of Wednesday, May 18. It runs from 4-6 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and 9-11 and 11-1 on Saturdays and Sundays through Wednesday, June 8. Then it takes six days off and resumes on Tuesday, June 14 from 11-1 on all days except Friday (no class on Fridays). The class ends on July 30, although it's weekend only after Thursday, July 14.

The second option starts on Monday, June 13 and runs from 9-11 six days a week through Sunday, July 17 and then becomes four to fives days per week until it ends on Monday, August 15.

The last starts on Saturday, June 18 and runs from 2-4 six days a week through Sunday, July 17 (with a couple Sundays where you have class 2-4 and 4-6) and then becomes four to fives days per week until it ends on Monday, August 15.

You can see the schedules by clicking here.

BerkReviewTeach, I asked this on the wrong thread yesterday (last years archive) so forgive me if U've seen it twice. Are we able to start the course at Westwood since it starts mid may and then when the Irvine session starts switch over? I would love to get an early jump on things and taking some material twice maybe a great way to review some topics.

Originally Posted by greathl21

BerkReviewTeach, I asked this on the wrong thread yesterday (last years archive) so forgive me if U've seen it twice. Are we able to start the course at Westwood since it starts mid may and then when the Irvine session starts switch over? I would love to get an early jump on things and taking some material twice maybe a great way to review some topics.

Definitely! You can even start attending classes for the current session if there is space. They always enroll in a way that there are six to eight jump seats in the class. This allows for session hopping during busy weeks (like midterms weeks for instance). If that would cut down on your commute time, you should ask about the Spring schedule.

Originally Posted by greathl21

I have not had the second semester of organic chemistry and will not take it until the Fall. Do the instructors assume that students have had organic chemistry or is that something that they teach you during the course? Am I at a huge disadvantage if I have not had OChem 2???

The only concern might be carbonyl compounds, which hopefully you got a taste of in your first semester class. I'd suggest you hit office hours before that lecture to get some of the terminology ahead of time. Other than that, most everything on the MCAT is first semester material or biochem related.

BerkReviewTeach, what is your position with the company? Do you teach or tutor there?

Originally Posted by greathl21

BerkReviewTeach, what is your position with the company? Do you teach or tutor there?

I do a little of everything, based pretty much on what position needs to be filled at a given time.

quick question, if i order the books online now,can i use them for the summer session later on?

Originally Posted by samis

quick question, if i order the books online now,can i use them for the summer session later on?

What the BR rep said is that if you buy the books and later decide to take the course in person, then TBR will apply the amount of purchase towards the course registration fee.

So if you can get an early start, they will definitely not hinder you!

Originally Posted by samis

quick question, if i order the books online now,can i use them for the summer session later on?

You can definitely do that. And as greathl21 mentioned, the money from the book purchase can be applied to the course tutition. The shipping costs are not applied however.

And alternative to that would be to enroll in the summer course now and collect your books early. It works out the same way, with the added advantage that you can sit in on some lectures early (with the current class) if you wish.

I am sending in my paperwork for Westwood's summer program. I would like to get into the II or I time slot.

OP do you know a good place to rent, in walking distance?

Originally Posted by DrNunes

I am sending in my paperwork for Westwood's summer program. I would like to get into the II or I time slot.

OP do you know a good place to rent, in walking distance?

Over the summer, many of the frat houses rent rooms fairly cheaply. They are about a quarter mile from the center. Summer sublets in Westwood aren't that bad compared to the schoolyear prices, but be prepared to get a dose of sticker shock in the Bel Air/UCLA area.

Originally Posted by BerkReviewTeach

You can definitely do that. And as greathl21 mentioned, the money from the book purchase can be applied to the course tutition. The shipping costs are not applied however.

And alternative to that would be to enroll in the summer course now and collect your books early. It works out the same way, with the added advantage that you can sit in on some lectures early (with the current class) if you wish.

that's a great idea, i can go to any lectures even if started already?

Originally Posted by BerkReviewTeach

There is a payment plan (with no interest and no fees). You should speak to the registrar when you call next, and they'll work out a personalized plan. You should also ask about discounts, because if you are a member of Care Extenders or Clinical Care Extenders in southern California, then there is a $100 discount.

what do I need to get on the payment plan? also I’m going to be a part of the Clinical Care Extenders in southern California but haven't started yet, can i get the discount if i want to register now for the summer session?

Originally Posted by samis

what do I need to get on the payment plan? also I’m going to be a part of the Clinical Care Extenders in southern California but haven't started yet, can i get the discount if i want to register now for the summer session?

You can start as soon as you enroll, but check with the teacher to see which session is least crowded. That's the only rule. You have to attend the least crowded class.

CCEs get $100 off. Check with your program coordinator where to check the application to get the discount. You can PM me as well and I will tell you where and how to mark your application.

As far as a payment plan goes, you can work out the specifics with the Berkeley office (they handle that stuff). You'll need to put the deposit down and then they set up monthly payments. BTW, there's no fee to do it this way.

Originally Posted by BerkReviewTeach

You can start as soon as you enroll, but check with the teacher to see which session is least crowded. That's the only rule. You have to attend the least crowded class.

CCEs get $100 off. Check with your program coordinator where to check the application to get the discount. You can PM me as well and I will tell you where and how to mark your application.

As far as a payment plan goes, you can work out the specifics with the Berkeley office (they handle that stuff). You'll need to put the deposit down and then they set up monthly payments. BTW, there's no fee to do it this way.

I'm contemplating doing the same thing and so this is reaaaaaaaally tight of TBR to let us do something like this. I can't help but feel that we are dealing with a family-owned business because it seems like TBR really cares about giving us the best opportunity to succeed.

So do we just PM you to get that set up or do we need to go through the main office? Since I didn't get into my third class, I'm thinking I will have a little bit of time to sit in on some of the lectures.

Originally Posted by greathl21

I'm contemplating doing the same thing and so this is reaaaaaaaally tight of TBR to let us do something like this. I can't help but feel that we are dealing with a family-owned business because it seems like TBR really cares about giving us the best opportunity to succeed.

So do we just PM you to get that set up or do we need to go through the main office? Since I didn't get into my third class, I'm thinking I will have a little bit of time to sit in on some of the lectures.

PM me and I'll give you the email address for the So Cal office manager.

Hey guys,

I'm planning on taking TBR course this summer. However, I noticed that the course is intended for those who plan on taking the MCAT immediately after the course (eg august-september). I personally am leaning towards taking the MCAT in early January or around that time, but I am worried that I will experience diminishing returns from this course if I wait so long. Also, will I have access to the extra services during the time between the course and the MCAT (most importantly the 9 CBTs)? How does my plan sound?

Originally Posted by BerkReviewTeach

PM me and I'll give you the email address for the So Cal office manager.

Hi,

I've sent you a PM. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Thanks!

Originally Posted by sganjam91

Hey guys,

I'm planning on taking TBR course this summer. However, I noticed that the course is intended for those who plan on taking the MCAT immediately after the course (eg august-september). I personally am leaning towards taking the MCAT in early January or around that time, but I am worried that I will experience diminishing returns from this course if I wait so long. Also, will I have access to the extra services during the time between the course and the MCAT (most importantly the 9 CBTs)? How does my plan sound?

IMO, it's probably better to wait since they will be offering the course again for the January MCAT dates. I think it will be around the winter break.
If you absolutely have to take the course during the summer, then you will just have to review everything (thoroughly) once again during the winter break.

Originally Posted by sganjam91

Hey guys,

I'm planning on taking TBR course this summer. However, I noticed that the course is intended for those who plan on taking the MCAT immediately after the course (eg august-september). I personally am leaning towards taking the MCAT in early January or around that time, but I am worried that I will experience diminishing returns from this course if I wait so long. Also, will I have access to the extra services during the time between the course and the MCAT (most importantly the 9 CBTs)? How does my plan sound?

I agree with the previous poster and his/her idea of waiting to take the course that leads to your January exam date. However, if studying this summer is more feasible, then do yourself a favor and lay out your homework from the course in such a manner that you'll be doing over half of your passages in the Fall. You'll want to do some this summer to get the most out of lectures, but you'll also want to save some to help prepare in the future. Maybe just do Phase I this summer and save Phases II and III for later.

I sent my paperwork, including check, in this past week. Do you guys send out an e-mail or snail-mail confirmation and information?

Originally Posted by DrNunes

I sent my paperwork, including check, in this past week. Do you guys send out an e-mail or snail-mail confirmation and information?

The guy who handles registration is all about email. You should get a confirmation message once your check has cleared. If you have any concerns, you should call the office to verify your enrollment.

I have purchased the books and all 7 practice exams. I received my books a while ago, but I want my practice exams opened now. I have not received any information regarding my practice exams. I have been trying to email and call the 1800 number. If you can please have someone contact me. I registered under the junejaan@msu.edu email.

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^ No tbr in westwood is open to all. I am not a UCLA student and am enrolled in the program. I do however believe that all of the slots are taken, don't quote me on it tho. You can try checking their website. The way I enrolled is by mailing in a registration form and a check. The office annoyingly difficult to get ahold of at times.

Are the CBTs offered in the classes the same as the ones offered online? (except, of course, for 8 and 9, which aren't online).

I have been trying to reach TBR for about 2 weeks. They won't call me back or email me back. What is going on? I have been calling the 1800 number. Is there a better email or number to use?? PLEASE let me know!!! I am desperate!

Amazing program.

Does any one know of a place in or close by Westwood to rent from early Oct. until Dec.17? or a little after Dec. 17th. I am trying to find a rental and any help will be greatly appreciated. Please send me a PM or email if you can help.

Thanks!

Kevnm67@gmail.com

Are the The Berkeley Review's 7 CBT tests different from the AAMC tests?

I guess I am a bit paranoid of burning up an AAMC test while thinking it was a private practice one.

Oh, and to the post above. You might want to look into Santa Monica region and use public commute. The prices near UCLA looks quite pricey on the internet (like $1500/bedroom pricey).

Originally Posted by MCATlover

Are the The Berkeley Review's 7 CBT tests different from the AAMC tests?

I guess I am a bit paranoid of burning up an AAMC test while thinking it was a private practice one.

Oh, and to the post above. You might want to look into Santa Monica region and use public commute. The prices near UCLA looks quite pricey on the internet (like $1500/bedroom pricey).

Yeah, they are completely different exams.

Originally Posted by MCATlover

Are the The Berkeley Review's 7 CBT tests different from the AAMC tests?

I guess I am a bit paranoid of burning up an AAMC test while thinking it was a private practice one.

Oh, and to the post above. You might want to look into Santa Monica region and use public commute. The prices near UCLA looks quite pricey on the internet (like $1500/bedroom pricey).

Thanks...everything I found was very expensive but a family friend is going to house me for the length of the course.

Any one else enrolled in TBR course for the Jan. 2011 exam? I am heading out from Atlanta. Is there a good place to study in Westwood? Also looking for some one or a group to study with if any one is interested.

BTW, I was told that if you previously purchased the books that they would NOT be applied to the cost of the course.

Originally Posted by kevnm67

Thanks...everything I found was very expensive but a family friend is going to house me for the length of the course.

Any one else enrolled in TBR course for the Jan. 2011 exam? I am heading out from Atlanta. Is there a good place to study in Westwood? Also looking for some one or a group to study with if any one is interested.

BTW, I was told that if you previously purchased the books that they would NOT be applied to the cost of the course.

I'm not sure if this is too late to help, but there are tons of coffee lounges in Westwood. I'd recommend you study in the BR center given that it's big and only has MCAT students in it. However, if you need people around you and a break from the premed world, you can try biomed library at UCLA or any of the 1000 coffee spots in the village.