In episode 12 of The Pre-Admission Game podcast, our host Arshad is joined by Joe, a second-year medical student at Deakin University, to share his firsthand experiences tackling the GAMSAT. He offers insights into the challenges each section presents, especially for students from biomedical or medical science backgrounds.
Section 1: Reading Between the Lines
Joe dives into Section 1, where success hinges on your ability to interpret nuance, tone, and meaning across a variety of text types. From literary prose to philosophical arguments, he explains why it’s less about passively reading the information and more about active thinking. For science students, this section often feels like a curveball, but Joe highlights how the right mindset and focused practice can turn it into a strength.
Section 2: Essays That Actually Work
When it comes to Section 2, Joe pulls back the curtain and reveals what makes a compelling essay. It’s not about sounding fancy - it’s about structured, authentic arguments. He explores how to approach the two different prompts, generate relevant ideas quickly, and write essays that are both insightful and grounded. While a strong grasp of the English vocabulary can certainly improve the quality of one’s essay, true confidence in Section 2 results from clarity, not complexity.
Section 3: Science Under Pressure
In Section 3, Joe shares his strategies for tackling high-pressure problem-solving with scientific reasoning. He emphasises the need for understanding over rote memorisation, and talks about how applying the basic scientific principles to new contexts is the real test. Both humanities and science students alike routinely struggle with this section, but whether it’s physics, biology, or chemistry, this section is about thinking fast and thinking smart.
What’s Next?
Joe’s reflection is honest, relatable and filled with tips that students can apply almost instantaneously. To hear the full story - including his biggest lessons and what he wishes he’d known earlier - tune into the full episode.
Because when it comes to the GAMSAT, learning from someone who’s been there can make all the difference.
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