All Access: Med School Admissions

Episode 84: The Science Behind the USMLE

For many pre-meds, the USMLE Step exams are a distant, high-stakes mystery. We know they can be the "gatekeeper" to residency, but who actually decides what's on the test - and why is it designed the way it is? In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on how the "USMLE sausage" gets made. Joining us are Dr. Amanda Clauser (VP of Psychometrics and Data Analysis) and Dr. Dan Jurich (AVP for the USMLE program) from National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME). We dive into the rigorous science of exam design, how the experts ensure fairness and equity, and what it actually takes to build a licensing exam that protects public health while supporting the next generation of doctors. If you find this podcast to be a helpful resource, RATE, REVIEW, FOLLOW, & SUBSCRIBE please! It helps others find it! Also, please share this with your friends! 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:  USMLE  NBME

Epsiode 84: Alice L. Walton School of Medicine

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! If you find this podcast to be a helpful resource, RATE, REVIEW, FOLLOW, & SUBSCRIBE please! It helps others find it! Also, please share this with your friends! 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/   YouTube   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

Episode 83: University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson

In this episode, host Christian Essman sits down with Dr. Tejal Parikh, Associate Dean for Admissions at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson. They dive into everything prospective applicants need to know about UA COM, from the school's innovative curriculum and block system, to its student support structure, distinction tracks, research opportunities, and what makes Tucson such a unique place to live and study. Dr. Parikh shares an insider's view on what makes her school special—including its tight-knit community vibe, stunning campus, and the outdoorsy, food-loving culture of Tucson. Hear firsthand how mentorship, mental health resources, and dedicated learning specialists shape the student experience. Plus, get tips on writing effective applications, what the admissions committee is really looking for, and how the MMI interview process works at U of Arizona COM. Christian and Dr. Parikh swap stories about admissions, offer candid advice on MCAT preparation, gap years, and reapplication strategies, and even share some memorable med school acceptance moments. Whether you're considering applying, prepping for interviews, or just curious about med school life in the Southwest, this episode is packed with behind-the-scenes insights and practical advice you won't want to miss. If you find this podcast to be a helpful resource, RATE, REVIEW, FOLLOW, & SUBSCRIBE please! It helps others find it! Also, please share this with your friends! 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:  https://medicine.arizona.edu/ CONTACT:  admissions@medicine.arizona.edu TIMESTAMPS:  00:00 Meet the Trailblazing Medical Dean 10:46 "The Power of Pause" 14:15 Stress-Free, Supportive Medical School 18:02 Free Counseling for Medical Students 23:42 Medical Education Distinction Tracks Overview 27:54 Four-Year Medical Research Project 36:37 Applicant Qualities and Demonstration 41:19 Blinded MMI Process Explained 47:36 Clinical Observation Recommendation Required 48:53 Unique Med School Recommendation Requirements 56:16 "MCAT Prep: Academic Athletes' Routine" 01:00:31 Assessing Med School Momentum 01:05:25 Virtual Tour and Student Insights 01:13:48 A Fulfilling Life's Work 01:16:17 Support & Share the Podcast

Episode 82: Your Guide to a Successful Medical School Interview

Are you prepping for your upcoming medical school interviews and not sure where to start? In this special episode of All Access: Med School Admissions, hosts Christian Essman, Senior Director of Admissions and Financial Aid, and Dr. Lina Mehta, Associate Dean for Admissions, at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine sit down for an in-depth, practical guide to mastering the med school interview process. From adapting to virtual formats like Zoom and making the most of your video presence, to handling nerves, navigating time zone challenges, and preparing for classic questions like "Tell me about yourself" and "Why medicine?"—Christian and Dr. Mehta cover it all. The episode is packed with honest advice on being authentic, outlining your personal story, what not to do, and even how to follow up after the big day. Whether you're looking for advice about tech setup, the importance of body language, managing interview disruptions, or making a great impression in Q&A sessions—this conversation delivers expert tips straight from leaders with years of admissions insight. If you want to feel confident and well-prepared for your next med school interview, don't miss this episode! If you find this podcast to be a helpful resource, RATE, REVIEW, FOLLOW, & SUBSCRIBE please! It helps others find it! Also, please share this with your friends! 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 TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Medical School Interview Tips 08:55 Embrace Authentic Conversations Over Scripts 12:30 Interview Procedure Explained 21:15 Transparency and Global Interviewing Insights 26:01 Interview Communication Tips 27:06 Overcoming Nervous Speech Habits 33:13 "Embrace Individuality, Know Yourself" 42:23 Research Schools Before Interviews 44:54 Effective Questions for Residency Interviews 52:19 Debrief After Every Experience 58:03 Balancing Seriousness with Lightheartedness 01:00:03 Subscribe, Review, and Share Podcast

Episode 81: Starting Strong: Essential Strategies for Pre-Meds Heading Back to School

It's back-to-school time with the All Access: Med School Admissions Podcast! In this insightful episode, host Christian Essman, Senior Director of Admissions and Financial Aid at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, sits down with Alexis Catanzarite, a seasoned pre-health advisor and Associate Director of Healthcare Careers at CWRU. Together, they dive into the real-life challenges, anxieties, and excitement that come with starting or returning to college as a pre-med or pre-health student. Alexis shares practical advice on avoiding the classic "September creep," managing FOMO, and striking a healthy balance between academics, extracurriculars, and personal well-being. Christian and Alexis break down the myths around perfect GPAs, what makes an experience "meaningful" on med school applications, and the realities of taking gap years. They also tackle the importance of executive functioning, building relationships with advisors and faculty, and making the most of available campus resources—including mental health support. Later in the episode, Alexis flips the script, asking Christian burning questions that pre-health advisors constantly get from students. The pair's honest, encouraging dialogue is packed with actionable tips for thriving in college and building a compelling med school application—reminding listeners that self-care, authenticity, and a growth mindset are just as critical as grades and resume-builders. Whether you're an incoming first-year, a returning student reassessing priorities, or just curious about medical school admissions, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready to start the year off informed, empowered, and energized! Follow Alexis and read her posts on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/acatan/  If you find this podcast to be a helpful resource, RATE, REVIEW, FOLLOW, & SUBSCRIBE please! It helps others find it! Also, please share this with your friends! 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 TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Advisor Insights with Alexis Catanzarite 06:42 Proactive Semester Planning Tips 11:00 Prioritize Meaningful Opportunities 20:51 Freshman Transition Challenges and Advice 25:17 Join Study Groups Early 27:59 Lasting Instructor-Student Connections 37:17 Connecting Students to Resources 38:37 Prioritizing Mental Health in College 44:04 "Importance of Prompt Email Response" 51:04 Pre-Med Advising: Retake Strategy 55:37 Discovering Fencing Through Friendship 59:48 Categorizing Medical Experience Hours 01:05:07 Soul Searching for Career Choices 01:12:58 "Subscribe, Review, Share Podcast"