The Psychology of Test-Taking: How to Crush Anxiety and Succeed in Life

Dr. Dimitrios Vonofakos joins us to continue the conversation sparked in our previous episode, “Life’s Pop Quiz: The Unexpected Lessons of a Grad School Exam,” alongside Anish Merchant.

But this time, we go deeper.

Drawing from his background in psychoanalysis and his work at Merchant GMAT & Admissions, Dr. Dimitrios explores the psychological foundations of test-taking — unpacking why anxiety arises, how fear manifests, and what mental frameworks actually help students perform at their highest level.

This conversation moves beyond the GMAT.

Dr. D reframes test anxiety as something universal — a metaphor for the fear, comparison, perfectionism, and self-doubt we face in everyday life. Through thoughtful insight and practical strategies, he shares how students (and professionals) can navigate mental blocks, apply structured problem-solving frameworks, and learn when it’s okay to “skip” — not every problem needs to be solved immediately.

This episode is not just about crushing anxiety on an exam.

It’s about developing the mindset to face life’s biggest challenges with clarity, confidence, and resilience.

Episode Summary

01:52 – Dimitrios reflects on a cherished childhood photo and early influences.
03:15 – His journey to studying psychoanalysis at the University of Essex.
05:10 – How he integrates psychoanalytic principles into his work at Merchant GMAT & Admissions.
06:31 – What first sparked his interest in the GMAC and standardized testing psychology.
07:28 – If the GMAT were a person, how would he describe it?
08:16 – What the GMAT is actually trying to bring out in test-takers.
09:02 – Why fear is the greatest challenge students face during high-stakes exams.
10:37 – The gap between score-improvement promises and psychological reality.
11:47 – How people truly deal with anxiety.
14:40 – Frameworks Merchant uses to navigate mental blocks and test anxiety.
18:18 – The GMAT as a metaphor for the psychological challenges of life.
21:51 – The concept of “skipping” — and why you don’t have to solve everything at once.
22:56 – Two essential insights for navigating both exams and life’s pressures.
25:40 – How to connect with Merchant GMAT & Admissions.

Life’s Pop Quiz: The Unexpected Lessons of Grad School Exams

Anish Merchant often references “The Hero’s Journey” — the timeless story of a protagonist who leaves home in search of belonging, only to discover that the journey itself reshapes who they are.

Inspired by that narrative, Anish left the United States in pursuit of his own grand adventure. His path led him to Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he discovered not only a new home, but a new calling.

What could have been the conclusion of one chapter instead marked the beginning of another.

That next chapter became Merchant GMAT & Admissions, Anish’s company dedicated to helping students navigate the GMAT, graduate admissions, and the deeper lessons embedded in the process. For Anish, the GMAT isn’t just a standardized exam — it’s a metaphor for life: structured thinking, resilience under pressure, strategic risk-taking, and confronting the fear of failure.

In this episode, Anish reflects on adventure, entrepreneurship, MBA culture, and why exams — much like life — are less about perfection and more about growth.

Episode Summary

02:53 – The meaning behind Anish’s name.
03:39 – How seeking adventure led him to Buenos Aires and changed his life trajectory.
05:58 – What resonated so deeply with him about Argentina.
07:05 – The origins of Merchant GMAT & Admissions.
10:44 – How Anish views the role of an MBA degree in someone’s life.
12:05 – Why the GMAT or MBA should be seen as a means to an end, not the end itself.
14:48 – The importance of knowing what you don’t want, as much as what you do want.
18:47 – Comparing the MBA journey to the broader path of life.
19:34 – How the GMAT serves as a metaphor for resilience and structured problem-solving.
21:40 – Breaking down the thinking frameworks embedded within the GMAT.
24:15 – Addressing the fear of failure and how it limits potential.
26:35 – How working in international education transformed his own path.
28:00 – His favorite superhero — and the superpower he’d choose.

Unlocking the Universe: From Forbes 30 Under 30 to New Frontiers in Science (Part 2)

Maryam Esmat returns for Part 2 of her extraordinary two-part interview — and this chapter expands from storytelling to the cosmos.

A Forbes Middle East 30 Under 30 honoree, Maryam continues to push the boundaries of astrophysics while pursuing her Ph.D. at Johns Hopkins University. In this episode, she takes us behind the scenes of her work with NASA, through AURA (Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy), at the Space Telescope Science Institute, contributing to the historic James Webb Space Telescope mission.

From calibrating the telescope to supporting exoplanet researchers in using its groundbreaking technology, Maryam offers a rare glimpse into the collaborative and global nature of modern astrophysics.

But her work does not stop at telescopes.

Maryam also dives into her current research on dark matter — one of the most mysterious and foundational questions in modern physics — while speaking candidly about the rarity of Arabs, particularly Arab women, in the physics and astrophysics communities.

This episode is about scientific discovery, representation, mentorship, and legacy. Maryam is not only unlocking the universe — she’s opening doors for the next generation to do the same.

Episode Summary

02:00 – Maryam reflects on her time at the Space Telescope Science Institute, working on the James Webb Space Telescope.
05:29 – Two major projects she contributed to: (1) calibrating the telescope and (2) guiding exoplanet scientists in its use.
07:27 – Her reaction to being named to Forbes Middle East 30 Under 30.
09:14 – An accessible explanation of dark matter and why it matters.
15:32 – Collaborating with leading scientists, including the HAYSTAC collaboration and Dr. Katelyn Breivik.
20:11 – Debunking misconceptions about the astrophysics community.
23:28 – The rarity of Arabs — especially women — in physics and astrophysics.
26:25 – A call to Arab physicists worldwide and her involvement in a global Discord network connecting them.
27:07 – Her commitment to mentoring students through EducationUSA, astrophysics research, and creative writing.
29:00 – Advice for students considering studying in the United States.

Prologue to Greatness: Author, Astrophysicist, and Mentor

At just 24 years old, Maryam Esmat’s life already reads like a greatest hits album.

Recognized on Forbes Middle East 30 Under 30 for her groundbreaking work in astrophysics, and named the youngest published author in the Middle East, Maryam has achieved what many spend a lifetime pursuing. Yet, if you ask her where we are in her story, she’ll tell you something unexpected:

We’ve only read the prologue.

Born and raised in Giza, Egypt, Maryam grew up in a home filled with books, curiosity, and academic rigor. Her love for science and storytelling emerged from the intersections of history, culture, literature, and the human psyche. Today, she is pursuing her Ph.D. at Johns Hopkins University, continuing to push boundaries in both science and narrative.

In this episode, Maryam reflects on identity, intellectual curiosity, mentorship, and the courage to dream beyond geography. She speaks about studying abroad in the United States, challenging misconceptions about international students, and blending astrophysics with creative writing in ways that redefine what it means to be multidimensional.

Her journey reminds us that greatness is not a destination — it’s a mindset.

And her story is only just beginning.

Episode Summary

03:09 – Maryam introduces us to her childhood in Giza, Egypt, and the city that shaped her.
03:53 – Growing up in a household of readers, academics, and endless books.
05:06 – How her parents’ interests in history and culture sparked her passion for science.
06:05 – Why the U.S. liberal arts education model drew her to study abroad.
07:32 – How her family supported her decision to pursue education in the U.S.
11:19 – Reflections on how perceptions of her journey have changed over time.
13:30 – Observations on the geographic and cultural diversity of the United States.
15:06 – Misconceptions U.S. residents may hold about international students.
17:49 – An overview of her award-winning novel, The Escaping Flashback, and its inspiration.
20:30 – How she grounds her writing in science, human interaction, and psychology.
22:05 – Looking back on her creative writing thesis at Lycoming College, The Evolution of Storytelling in Egypt.
25:13 – The next story Maryam hopes to tell.

Elevating the Student Voices of Tomorrow (Part 2)

Danny Nguyen returns for Part 2 of his powerful two-part interview — shifting the conversation from personal history to future impact.

Now serving as Vice President of Administrative Services at Mission College, Danny brings both lived experience and institutional leadership to the table. Having once been a refugee child searching for belonging, and later an educator deeply shaped by his students, he understands the transformative power of being heard.

In this episode, Danny shares his optimistic vision for the future of international education — one rooted in empathy, representation, and authentic student voice.

Yet optimism does not mean complacency.

Danny candidly reflects on areas where higher education must improve, particularly in recognizing and valuing the unique experiences international students bring to classrooms, workplaces, and communities. From the realities of job prospecting to the emotional weight of comparison, this conversation explores both the challenges students face and the systems that must evolve.

At its heart, this episode is about one core belief: when we elevate student voices, we strengthen the future of education itself.

Episode Summary

02:09 – Danny reflects on how meeting international students from diverse backgrounds shaped him as a teacher.
05:30 – How his teaching experiences influence his leadership role at Mission College.
07:42 – His mission to actively listen to and elevate student voices.
10:44 – What friends, family members, and higher education professionals can do to support international students.
13:46 – Danny’s optimism for the future of international education and the innovation sparked by diversity.
16:36 – Why the value of international student experiences is often overlooked in job prospecting.
18:49 – Managing the weight of comparison and advice for students navigating similar pressures.
20:51 – The importance of community and belonging for international students.

Escaping 1977 Vietnam: Finding a Place to Belong

A year remembered for the Fall of Saigon and “Black April.” A year marked by uncertainty, upheaval, and impossible decisions.

For Danny Nguyen and his family, it was the year everything changed.

Caught in the aftermath of a war-torn Vietnam, Danny’s parents faced a choice no family should have to make. Call it courage. Call it desperation. They wanted a better life for their children — and if that meant boarding a small boat and sailing into the dark, cold ocean with no guarantees, then so be it.

Today, Danny serves as the Vice President of Administrative Services at Mission College — a position that reflects leadership, stability, and decades of growth. But that title stands in stark contrast to the four-year-old boy who arrived in America in 1977, carrying only memories, uncertainty, and the weight of starting over.

In this deeply reflective episode, Danny shares what it means to flee your homeland, rebuild identity in a new country, and wrestle with the lifelong search for belonging.

As the saying goes, sometimes you have to lose yourself to find who you are.

Episode Summary

02:48 – Danny recalls a recent family trip and a meaningful family photo that sparked reflection.
04:18 – Looking back at Vietnam in 1977 and the decision to flee by boat under cover of night.
06:24 – Vivid memories of leaving Vietnam and rediscovering part of himself during a 2015 visit to Ho Chi Minh City.
10:37 – Arriving in the U.S. as a young child and adjusting to a new culture.
12:28 – How the concept of belonging has shaped Danny’s life.
16:32 – Balancing cultural heritage with assimilation into American society.
20:14 – Going from disliking academics to making education central to his life.
23:25 – The winding journey through rebellion, pharmacy, and ultimately leadership in higher education.
28:24 – Gratitude for a music choir instructor at Sylvandale Middle School who made a lasting impact.

Rewriting the Code: Black Women in STEM

Jessie Gentles is part of the 3%.

The tech industry has become one of the most lucrative and fast-growing sectors in the world. But within that rapid growth lies a stark reality: Black women represent only a small fraction of the IT workforce.

Born in Jamaica and now a software engineering student at Miami University, Jessie is determined to change that narrative.

In this powerful Season 3 premiere, Jessie shares her journey from Jamaica to the United States, navigating culture shock, academic rigor, and the realities of being a Black woman in STEM. She speaks candidly about representation, mentorship, and the responsibility — and opportunity — of being part of a small but rising percentage in tech.

Jessie is also a Hackathon Committee Member for Black Wings, a growing community of more than 950 women within Rewriting the Code, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underrepresented communities in technology. Through mentorship, internships, networking, and leadership opportunities, organizations like these are actively reshaping the future of tech.

This episode explores courage, community, and the importance of building spaces where every voice belongs.

Change is not just on the horizon — it’s being coded in real time.

Episode Summary

02:42 – Simon shares the meaning behind Jessie’s last name, Gentles.
03:14 – Jessie discusses her educational background and her desire to explore the world.
04:52 – Adapting to culture shock after moving to the U.S.
05:53 – Reflecting on how life may have been different had she stayed in Jamaica.
06:46 – Her experience as a Black woman in STEM at Miami University.
08:09 – Comparing technology accessibility in the U.S. and Jamaica.
09:09 – The impact of organizations like Black Wings and Rewriting the Code on her academic journey.
10:27 – How she became involved with the Black Wings organization.
12:11 – Why Black women have historically been underrepresented in STEM.
12:56 – The power of mentorships and internships for the next generation.
14:49 – What the Black Wings Hackathon Committee does and why it matters.
16:18 – Jessie’s entrepreneurial ambitions in software engineering.
17:27 – Networking strategies that have helped her grow professionally.
18:37 – Professors who have influenced her journey.
19:47 – Navigating American slang, holidays, and cultural traditions.
23:24 – Final advice for students considering studying abroad.

The Future of EdTech: Hope, Empathy, and Connection (Part 2)

Paige Steffy returns for Part 2 of her two-part conversation — and this episode shifts from personal journey to global perspective.

Having experienced life as an international graduate student in the U.K., Paige understands firsthand the emotional complexity of studying abroad: the uncertainty, the excitement, the homesickness, the growth. Now, working within the EdTech space at Unibuddy, she stands alongside students as they navigate those same transitions.

In this thoughtful and forward-looking discussion, Paige reflects on the three themes that consistently shape international education: hope, empathy, and connection.

She explores how student ambassador programs, peer-to-peer engagement, and authentic storytelling are transforming how prospective students make decisions — and how institutions can better support them.

This episode asks an important question: What does the future of international education look like — and how do we build it with humanity at the center?

Episode Summary

02:26 – Exploring the roots of Paige’s last name, “Steffy.”
03:32 – Why international education is so deeply meaningful to her.
05:29 – How her experience as an international student in the U.K. shaped her ability to bridge cultures professionally.
09:18 – Her unique perspective working across multiple sides of the international student journey within EdTech.
10:30 – Why student ambassadors are critical to the decision-making process for prospective students.
13:51 – A story about an international student at Willamette University who specialized in aquaponics.
18:34 – What gives Paige hope for the next generation of students.
20:05 – The responsibility adults have to foster hope in international students.
21:33 – Strengths of the U.S. international education system — and where it can learn from others.
23:28 – Where she sees the international student industry evolving in the next five to ten years.
25:01 – What Paige is most grateful for in her career serving international students.