A Heartfelt Message to Everyone Preparing for the MDCN Exam
I’m writing this from the deepest part of my heart to encourage anyone preparing to take the MDCN exam.
I sat for the exam in September 2024 in Ibadan, but unfortunately, I didn’t pass. I had used a different academy for my preparation and attended their tutorials online. Meanwhile, all my friends who prepared with Acemedix and attended their physical classes passed the exam.
It was a painful experience. I felt completely devastated but in all honesty, I knew I wasn’t adequately prepared. I had only one month to study, and the materials I used weren’t robust enough to help me succeed.
But I didn’t give up.
I picked myself up, started studying afresh, and this time, I registered with Acemedix, attending the physical tutorials. I was determined to give it my all and pass on my next attempt. I pushed myself hard, I studied until I was completely drained, doing 300 MCQs daily from the Acemedix website. Not a single day went by without solving questions. Even on days I was exhausted, I made sure to attempt at least 50 questions.
I had a clear study plan. I calculated the total number of questions on the website and broke them into daily, manageable sessions. Unlike my first attempt where I focused mostly on OSCE, this time I concentrated more on CBT. That Acemedix website? Please, don’t take it for granted. It is incredibly resourceful. I can say confidently that while other academies may try to imitate Acemedix, none match the depth and structure of their platform.
I came across questions and clinical images I had never seen before, but I kept pushing through. I completed all the questions on the website twice before the exam. About three weeks before the exam, I switched focus back to OSCE and refined my approach.
When exam time came, I wasn’t afraid. I had been through it before, this time, I just wanted to give it my best shot and finish strong. In Kano, I attended the workshop, sat for the CBT, and even though some questions leaned towards epidemiology, I was confident. Out of the slightly over 200 questions, I knew with certainty that I got at least 180 right.
As for OSCE, it wasn’t intimidating anymore, I was ready.
Here’s my advice to you:
• Attend physical classes if you can. It gives you the extra push and you’ll also meet amazing friends.
• On the exam day, especially during OSCE, stay alert, listen carefully, and try to pick up hints from others.
• Rest for at least a week before traveling for the exam. It’s very important.
• Most importantly, PRAY. Don’t lean on your own strength or understanding. Pray for grace, favor, and success. God came through for me, and He will come through for you too.
I’m rooting for you, and I can’t wait to celebrate your success, both in Nigeria and beyond.
All the best ❤️
Dr Anonymous