69 episodes

This show is designed to take the guesswork out of preparing for your standardized test and equip you with practical how-to's for getting more right answers on test day, successfully navigating the admissions process, getting accepted to your dream school, and succeeding in the classroom. Our episodes deliver expert advice from the industry's top test prep instructors and admissions consultants as we endeavor to prepare you for success not only on test day, but also in your future profession and life beyond. Oh, and did we mention that we have a lot of fun? You will too, as we embark on this important next chapter of your education together. Thanks for listening!

The Dominate Test Prep Podcast Brett Ethridge / Dominate Test Prep

    • Education
    • 5.0 • 18 Ratings

This show is designed to take the guesswork out of preparing for your standardized test and equip you with practical how-to's for getting more right answers on test day, successfully navigating the admissions process, getting accepted to your dream school, and succeeding in the classroom. Our episodes deliver expert advice from the industry's top test prep instructors and admissions consultants as we endeavor to prepare you for success not only on test day, but also in your future profession and life beyond. Oh, and did we mention that we have a lot of fun? You will too, as we embark on this important next chapter of your education together. Thanks for listening!

    69. Psychometrics of the GMAT Focus Edition

    69. Psychometrics of the GMAT Focus Edition

    On February 1, 2024, the “old” GMAT is going away and the new GMAT Focus Edition is the version of the business school entrance exam that MBA hopefuls will take as part of the admission process moving forward. In this episode we take a deep-dive look a the new GMAT exam from a psychometric standpoint, meaning the intellectual abilities and skills GMAT Focus tests and the psychological traits built into the makeup of the exam. 

    Specifically, we analyze the GMAT Focus Edition on five fronts:
    Why the changing business school landscape necessitated a rethinking of the GMAT exam and how the GMAC meets the needs of business schools with GMAT FocusHow the GMAC ensured the validity and reliability of the GMAT Focus Edition despite reducing the number of questionsKey differences between the GMAT Focus Edition and the legacy GMAT that renders GMAT Focus a very different test (note: it’s not just a shorter GMAT)Understanding the new GMAT Focus scoring algorithm and how to compare scores to the old GMATThe new Review & Edit feature of GMAT Focus and how to maximize it from a test-taking standpoint (hint: be very careful about changing your answers!)While we geek out a bit when talking about certain features of the GMAT Focus Edition, we always bring it back to what it means for you as a test-taker in terms of being able to get more right answers on test day. If you’re planning to take GMAT Focus, you’ll have a much better understanding of what you’re in store for after listening to this episode. If you’re an MBA admissions officer or consultant, you’ll have a better feel for what the GMAT Focus Edition measures, how it compares to the old GMAT, and how to think about a student’s score when evaluating their application.

    RESOURCES / LINKS
    Article: "Equating GMAT Focus vs GMAT Scoring Scales"Take the guesswork out of preparing for the GMAT Focus Edition with the industry's top-rated Complete GMAT Focus Prep Course (fully updated and specifically designed for the GMAT Focus Edition)SIMILAR EPISODES

    If you enjoyed this episode, we encourage you to check out these other similar episodes of The Dominate Test Prep Podcast:
    Episode 65: Initial Thoughts on the New GMAT Focus Edition, with Barbara CowardEpisode 50: What Good are Standardized Tests Anyway?Episode 42: GMAT vs. GRE for MBA AdmissionsA DOSE OF MOTIVATION

    “Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.” — Muhammad Ali
    Connect with Us
    Get more free content on the DTP YouTube Channel Register for a comprehensive prep course (GMAT Focus, Executive Assessment, GRE, LSAT) Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Questions? Comments? Email us at support@dominatetestprep.com.

    • 44 min
    68. Demystifying the New Digital SAT, with Mike Bergin

    68. Demystifying the New Digital SAT, with Mike Bergin

    The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT), the granddaddy of all standardized tests, is finally joining the digital age. International students have already been able to take the SAT on a computer; as of March 2024, the new Digital SAT will permanently replace pencil-and-paper exams worldwide. The SAT is evolving — and that's a good thing says Mike Bergin, President & Owner of Chariot Learning. Mike joins this episode to help us prepare for this brave new world of college admissions testing. We discuss:
    Why the SAT has finally decided to go digital, and what it means for you as a test takerLogistics of the online exam, including devices you're allowed to use and software you'll need to install before test dayThe new section-adaptive scoring algorithm, how it differs from the current linear paper test, and test-taking strategies to maximize the new section flowSubstantive differences between the Digital SAT and the legacy SAT, especially with regard to reading comprehension passages and the reintroduction of vocabularyRecommended resources for preparing for the Digital SATAnd more!The only constant in life is change, as they say. But change doesn't have to be scary. Indeed, once you fully understand how the new Digital SAT works and what you're in store for on test day, you can fully embrace this change and dominate your performance on test day. After learning from Mike in this episode, you'll be able to do just that.

    RESOURCES / LINKS
    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Digital SAT from the official College Board SAT siteFree SAT Prep from Khan AcademyPersonalized SAT Prep with Mike Bergin via Chariot LearningConnect with Mike Bergin on LinkedInEssential SAT Math Strategies - video course from Dominate Test PrepSIMILAR EPISODES

    If you enjoyed this episode, we encourage you to check out these other similar episodes of The Dominate Test Prep Podcast:
    Episode 40: Proven Principles of Perfect Practice, with Mike BerginEpisode 67: What to Look for in a Tutor, with Mark SkoskiewiczEpisode 41: SAT vs. ACT for College Admissions, with Amy SeeleyEpisode 48: Planning Your Campus Visits, with Mary LanniA DOSE OF MOTIVATION

    "Your outcomes are a lagging measure of your habits…. Your knowledge is a lagging measure of your learning habits…. You get what you repeat." — James Clear


    Connect with Us
    Get more free content on the DTP YouTube Channel Register for a comprehensive prep course (GMAT Focus, Executive Assessment, GRE, LSAT) Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Questions? Comments? Email us at support@dominatetestprep.com.

    • 46 min
    67. What to Look for in a Tutor, with Mark Skoskiewicz

    67. What to Look for in a Tutor, with Mark Skoskiewicz

    There are a number of ways to prepare for your standardized test, one of which is to hire a tutor. Is going the tutoring route right for you? If so, how can you choose a tutor that’s the best fit for your particular learning style?

    In this episode we explore key aspects of effective tutoring with MyGuru founder Mark Skoskiewicz. Specifically, we discuss:
    The type of student tutoring is ideally suited forThe type of student who might be better off with a course, self-study, or another form of test prepCharacteristics of an effective tutorThe roles and responsibilities of the student to get the most out of tutoringThe true value of a tutor (hint: it’s not their hourly rate)The benefits of online vs. in-person tutoringFour questions you should ask when vetting a tutorAnd more!Whether you already know you want to work with a tutor or you’re still in the early stages of preparing for your exam, Mark’s perspective on what it takes to succeed on a high-stakes test will serve you well as you decide on the best approach to your prep.

    RESOURCES / LINKS
    Peak Performance, by Brad Stulberg and Steve MagnessLearn more about MyGuru's tutoring optionsDominate your test with the help of our industry-leading prep coursesSIMILAR EPISODES

    If you enjoyed this episode, we encourage you to check out these other similar episodes of The Dominate Test Prep Podcast:
    Episode 56: How to Use Practice Tests (and What to Avoid), with Vinay NarangEpisode 25: How to Find the Motivation to StudyEpisode 5: Test Mastery Part 1: The Success Triad + Time Management TipsA DOSE OF MOTIVATION

    “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” — Albert Einstein


    Connect with Us
    Get more free content on the DTP YouTube Channel Register for a comprehensive prep course (GMAT Focus, Executive Assessment, GRE, LSAT) Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Questions? Comments? Email us at support@dominatetestprep.com.

    • 46 min
    66. My MBA Journey as a Mother and International Student, with Yurany Hernandez

    66. My MBA Journey as a Mother and International Student, with Yurany Hernandez

    Getting an MBA is challenging under the best of circumstances. When you’re a mother of two, that adds an extra layer of complexity. And if you choose a business school in another country where classes are conducted in your non-native language? Well, some would say you’re a glutton for punishment!

    But that’s exactly the path that Yurany Hernandez chose — and she has found the experience to be incredibly rewarding. Yurany, who hails from Colombia and is finishing up her degree at NYU Stern School of Business, share’s her story including practical strategies for other mothers and international students trying to juggle the demands of business school in pursuit of their dreams. As Yurany says, “If I can do it, anyone can do it!”


    RESOURCES / LINKS
    Connect with Yurany Hernandez on LinkedInDominate your test with the help of our industry-leading prep courses
    SIMILAR EPISODES

    If you enjoyed this episode, we encourage you to check out these other similar episodes of The Dominate Test Prep Podcast:
    Episode 22: A Peek Behind the MBA Curtain, with Sam KleinEpisode 8: How I Raised My GMAT Score 120 Points, with Matt KunzlerEpisode 28: The Value of an MBA, with Tim Munyon
    A DOSE OF MOTIVATION

    “Regret hurts more than failure ever will.” — Elizabeth Rider


    Connect with Us
    Get more free content on the DTP YouTube Channel Register for a comprehensive prep course (GMAT Focus, Executive Assessment, GRE, LSAT) Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Questions? Comments? Email us at support@dominatetestprep.com.

    • 39 min
    65. Initial Thoughts on the New GMAT Focus Edition, with Barbara Coward

    65. Initial Thoughts on the New GMAT Focus Edition, with Barbara Coward

    Big changes are coming to the main standardized test you need to take when applying for an MBA, and we're here to break it down for you. Specifically, the GMAC announced that it will be replacing the GMAT, which has been the gold standard exam for students pursuing an advanced business degree for nearly 70 years, with a new version of the test called the GMAT Focus Edition. We're joined in this episode by Barbara Coward, founder of MBA 360 Admissions, to dissect this monumental news. Specifically, we discuss:
    Why nowWhat's on the new exam, and how it differs from the current GMATWhy a shorter exam doesn't necessarily mean an easier examThe timeline for the rollout of the new GMAT Focus EditionThe mindset of admissions officers, and how this new version may better help them assess the best candidates for their programsWhat this change suggests about the future landscape of business educationWhat MBA candidates can be doing now if they think they'll be taking the new version of the GMATAnd more!As we learn more about the specific details of the exam, we'll update you here on the podcast and via e-mail as well. You can opt-in for those updates HERE.

    RESOURCES / LINKS
    Be the first to know! Sign up for timely updates about the new GMAT Focus Edition exam, straight to your inbox.Connect with Barbara Coward of MBA 360 Admissions for a complimentary 15-minute consultation.Prepare for your standardized test — including the GMAT Focus Edition — with one of Dominate Test Prep's comprehensive prep courses.
    SIMILAR EPISODES

    If you enjoyed this episode, we encourage you to check out these other similar episodes of The Dominate Test Prep Podcast:
    Episode 1: Top 3 Prep Tips for Any Standardized TestEpisode 57: How to Prepare for the Executive AssessmentEpisode 61: Priorities if You're Short on Study TimeEpisode 28: The Value of an MBA, with Tim Munyon
    A DOSE OF MOTIVATION

    “Change is the only constant in life.” — Heraclitus


    Connect with Us
    Get more free content on the DTP YouTube Channel Register for a comprehensive prep course (GMAT Focus, Executive Assessment, GRE, LSAT) Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Questions? Comments? Email us at support@dominatetestprep.com.

    • 41 min
    64. The Secret to Growing Past a Prep Plateau

    64. The Secret to Growing Past a Prep Plateau

    It's common to hit a plateau as you're preparing for your standardized test. Your momentum stalls, your practice test scores stop going up, and no matter how much you keep studying, you don't seem to be making any progress.

    The key to getting un-stuck so that you can get off your prep plateau and continue growing toward your goals lies in the "Growth Formula" as laid out by Brad Stulberg and Steve Magness in Peak Performance. In this episode we dissect their formula and reveal what may just be the secret ingredient for you to achieve the breakthrough you're looking for. Incidentally, the components of the Growth Formula will help you achieve excellence in all areas of your life to which you apply them.

    Even if you haven't [yet] hit a plateau as you're studying for your exam, the concepts and studies discussed here will help you optimize your preparation so that you can experience peak performance on test day.


    RESOURCES / LINKS
    Peak Performance, by Brad Stulberg and Steve MagnessComprehensive prep courses for the GMAT, GRE, Executive Assessment, and LSAT
    SIMILAR EPISODES

    If you enjoyed this episode, we encourage you to check out these other similar episodes of The Dominate Test Prep Podcast:
    Episode 17: Nutrition Hacks for Improved Focus, Memory, and Mental Clarity, with Dr. Barrett DeubertEpisode 33: How to Get Started Again if Something Derails Your PrepEpisode 40: Proven Principles of Perfect Practice, with Mike Bergin
    A DOSE OF MOTIVATION

    “The process of setting a goal on the outer boundaries of what we think is possible, and then systematically pursuing it, is one of the most fulfilling parts about being human.” — Brad Stulberg


    Connect with Us
    Get more free content on the DTP YouTube Channel Register for a comprehensive prep course (GMAT Focus, Executive Assessment, GRE, LSAT) Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Questions? Comments? Email us at support@dominatetestprep.com.

    • 42 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
18 Ratings

18 Ratings

Happy pot ,

I love the unique lens

In listening to your podcast interviews, as an standardized test tutor, I am impressed and drawn in by the questions you ask and the unique lens through which you look. I appreciate how you relate your initial “frame-ups” to students, thus recognizing, encouraging, and empowering them for success.

E.T.10 ,

Incredibly Helpful

I’ve been listening to these podcasts while simultaneously going through the DominateTestPrep course for the GMAT. These podcasts shed light on things to consider for the test that are beyond the “x’s and o’s” of the test material. Nutrition, motivation, tips and tricks, and so much more. This channel greatly complements the study material.

GradSchool2020 ,

Perfect Resource for Aspiring Grad Students

Unfortunately, I came across this podcast AFTER I had endured the process of applying to graduate schools. I say unfortunately -- because the episodes are so spot-on, and I wish I could have listened to them during the process. I particularly enjoyed "Is Harvard Really Worth It?" as someone who was just admitted to Harvard, and a group of other schools.

The host also seems extremely knowledgeable about not just test prep, but the entire grad school application process. I look forward to listening to future episodes, and will be referring my friends who apply to grad school to this resource.

Top Podcasts In Education

The Mel Robbins Podcast
Mel Robbins
The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast
Dr. Jordan B. Peterson
Mick Unplugged
Mick Hunt
Do The Work
Do The Work
The Rich Roll Podcast
Rich Roll
TED Talks Daily
TED