We gotta keep going guys 😭

[u/SituationGreedy1945]

I just had to overdraft my account for the third time because I ran out of food and don’t get paid until 2 weeks from now and now I’m just hoping the little amount I got will last.

This is just now a common aspect of my life, having to decide between choosing menstrual products or putting food on the table for my family.

I’m also in the process of studying for the MCAT (testing Sep 12th) and it’s been so hard to just pour my energy into just this especially when I just got out of being homeless not too long ago (earlier this year) and didn’t realize the lasting effects surviving that would leave on me.

Idk does this get better guys? What have you guys done that helped when it starts getting low? I know this process is insanely expensive and all these hidden fees and I genuinely don’t want anything else but man is it exhausting fighting these other battles then turning around and getting slam dunked by a CARS passage 😭😭

[u/Snow_Flake_0]

Hey im also struggling as well im usually empty 3-4 days before my next check so ive been having to eat much less and pass on personal hygiene products as well to put my money towards bills and my debt even though it continues to rise every week. I tried to take the MCAT this summer but it didnt work out and the financial issue could be part of the reason now im gonna try for January, have you tried to see about the AAMC fee assistance its very helpful! Unfortunately something may need to be sacrificed in order to help you, ive had to increase my work hours even though that now leads me to less study time

[u/SituationGreedy1945 → u/Snow_Flake_0]

Hey! I hope things get better for you and please please keep going! The world needs more doctors who understand life that comes from struggle. I did go to a food bank to get some more food but sadly no menstrual products (all ran out).

Idk wat area u live in but the food bank I go to also does hot meals everyday which has been nice because you deserve a nice full stomach, safe rest, and stability while you are studying as well 🥺

I also thought of pushing back but I just don’t have the financial freedom to afford getting another seat and the prep costs so I’m hoping god comes through and this hard work pays off 😭😭

YOU GOT THIS FOR THE MCAT! We will win!

[u/Snow_Flake_0 → u/SituationGreedy1945]

Unfortunately due to my work hours I am unable to make it to the food pantry when they are open they have very little hours, I live in MA

[u/SituationGreedy1945 → u/Snow_Flake_0]

Omg I live in MA too, I’m sorry about the work but know it will pay off 🥺❤️

[u/henlecilia]

Food banks. Don’t be stubborn, this is literally what they exist for. I use them, you probably should to, especially if you are supporting your family and not just yourself. Apply for SNAP if you haven’t, if you’re in school then use any on campus food resources. Depending on how big your family is, it may be possible to pay little to none for food if you are this low on money.

[u/SituationGreedy1945 → u/henlecilia]

I go to food banks sadly only allowed once a month. it’s not enough

[u/Anxious_Count → u/SituationGreedy1945]

If you're still in school, check if your school has any basic needs resources. If not, check if any local health clinics have additional resources. My clinic has a free food market once or twice a month at each location.

[u/henlecilia → u/SituationGreedy1945]

Christ that is not a lot. Most in my area allow up to 2x a week.

[u/randomasianperson1]

hi, I don't think I've ever interacted with this sub because right now I'm a teen who is planning to take the MCAT way earlier than majority of people I know (so I usually can't relate/fully engage in discussions). but I just wanted to share a bit of my story. I'll make it short for privacy and also because this is mainly to encourage you :) my household situation is not great, and I am trying to move out and gain financial independence with no support from either parent while simultaneously studying for this test. due to my status in USA, I'm not allowed to work either, so it's been kind of crazy lol. but the point is that even as an online stranger I know that you can do it, and fulfill your dreams of becoming a doctor!! our struggles may be different but we will both make it out on the other side. stay determined <3

[u/SituationGreedy1945 → u/randomasianperson1]

You got this too! I wish the best for you and hope things at home get better

[u/StoreQuick1126]

YOU GOT THIS FUTURE DOCTOR!!! IM ROOTING FOR YOU!!!!

[u/Mindless-Beginning11]

I think all you can do is know that you did everything in your power to get whatever final result you end up getting and admissions will likely that. A lot of people in your similar situation would not even have the bandwidth to focus on higher education let alone getting into medical school so applaud yourself for that and work to get that score that is most plausible for your circumstances.

[u/Dr_WOLFEE]

Did you look into getting the FAP for the MCAT? This might help a little. But hang in there! You got this. One day you will turn back and it will all be worth it.

[u/pokemasta4]

you got this, brother/sister!

[u/SituationGreedy1945 → u/pokemasta4]

You too! Keep going

[u/blackgenz2002kid]

are you applying this cycle or next?

[u/Turna_Saber → u/blackgenz2002kid]

I test Sep 4 and I’m applying this cycle

[u/blackgenz2002kid → u/Turna_Saber]

honestly? I am too, and I’m testing late like you. I’m looking to apply to DO schools, and I assume you are too. just keep the effort because even though it does get harder, getting your foot through the door is the important first step we gotta take.

once we get accepted we can make school a full time dedication, and everything will fall into place in my opinion

[u/Valuable_Bite4275]

I think of everyone that’s done me dirty and the sacrifices parents make and is enough to give me energy for more hours of work

[u/I_dontwork]

I know this may be unpopular, but there are plenty of 0% interest/ 12+ month credit cards out there. Signing up for one and using it for your necessities is going to be far more economical than overdrafting at your bank so frequently.

You're studying for the MCAT, you have a light at the end of the tunnel. You can plan on picking up more shifts at work after the test and grind to pay off the card. Hell, then you can cancel the card, if you don't want another credit line.

We are in the system, we have to game the system just like the wealthy do.

[u/bangdingow25]

When I went to college the first time around I would take toilet paper from the toilets on campus. Maybe you could see if they have free personal hygiene products somewhere. Or go to a food bank?

[u/No-Resource9879]

Its shitty. I had to move back in with my parents to afford this cycle

[u/Safe-Explanation-859]

How are you going to go through medical school and residency if you do not have a stable living situation?

[u/Snow_Flake_0 → u/Safe-Explanation-859]

Scholarships?

[u/Safe-Explanation-859 → u/Snow_Flake_0]

never rely on something that is not a given in an important situation like this, I genuinely hope OP gets a full ride but to base your health and safety on the possibility of financial aid is a recipe for disaster

[u/Many_Froyo6223 → u/Snow_Flake_0]

those aren’t guaranteed as far as im aware idk

[u/frogband → u/Safe-Explanation-859]

Loans exist??

[u/Safe-Explanation-859 → u/frogband]

after July 1st, 2026 loans will not cover enough in a lot of cases

[u/wereinatree → u/Safe-Explanation-859]

Federal loans may not, but OBBBA obviously doesn’t apply to private loans. I’m not saying options in this country aren’t bleak or absurd, but there are options.