In this episode, host Christian Essman sits down with Dan Kallenberger, Assistant Dean for Recruitment, Admissions, and Whole Health Initiation at the brand new Alice L. Walton School of Medicine (AWSOM) in Bentonville, Arkansas. Together, they dive into what makes AWSOM stand out—from its innovative, art- and humanities-integrated curriculum and unique whole health approach, to the striking, state-of-the-art building that literally features a rooftop park and garden.
Dan shares his journey in setting up another new medical school and talks candidly about making the move to Northwest Arkansas, revealing the hidden perks of the area, from the lively food and arts scene to abundant outdoor activities. You'll get the inside scoop on AWSOM's mission to serve rural and underserved communities, their hands-on curriculum focused on collaboration over competition, and robust student support services.
If you're a prospective applicant, you'll hear valuable advice on the admissions process—including what makes an applicant stand out, tips for interviews, choosing effective letter writers for recommendations, insight into MCAT and prerequisite expectations, and what holistic review really means at this innovative institution.
Tune in for an "awesome" conversation about building a medical school from the ground up, rethinking medical education, and what it means to create a compassionate, community-centered culture for future physicians.
Perfect for aspiring med students, pre-health advisors, or anyone curious about what it takes to launch a new medical school and apply with purpose!
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Send me your recommendations for future medical schools that you'd like to hear featured! Send it to: allaccess@case.edu
Visit our website for more information on this episode and others. https://linktr.ee/allaccessmedschool
This podcast is hosted, edited, and produced by: Christian Essman
RESOURCES:
AAMC Virtual Fair - October 29 & 30, 2025 Registration
https://www.alwmedschool.org/
ARCHES Curriculum
CONTACT:
admissions@alwmed.org
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Medical School Recruitment Leader Dan
10:18 "Choosing Warmer Opportunities"
15:06 "Arches Curriculum Overview"
16:53 Engaged, Interactive Learning Approach
26:51 Community Engagement and Service Initiative
29:08 New Med School Growth Journey
38:38 Aligning Applicants with School Values
39:36 Holistic Medical School Admissions Criteria
48:33 Unexpected Benefit of Seeking Help
55:09 Reapplicants: Focus on Self-Reflection and Progress
57:47 Reflective Reapplication: Lessons Learned
01:03:23 Interview Day: Mutual Evaluation Focus
01:08:23 Preparing for Interview Day
01:16:50 Subscribe, Review, Share: Podcast Growth
