All Access: Med School Admissions

In this episode, we dive into a topic that admissions officers and student affairs deans across the country are talking about behind closed doors: executive functioning. Incredibly talented, high-achieving pre-meds and accepted students are sometimes dropping the ball on important administrative details, missing deadlines, ignoring instructions, and struggling with personal management and it can get in the way of success!

To help us make sense of this, I'm joined by Dr. Tori Cordiano, a licensed clinical psychologist, speaker, and writer specializing in executive functioning, anxiety, ADHD, and youth development. Recommended directly by her colleague Dr. Lisa Damour, Dr. Cordiano breaks down what executive functioning actually is, why smart students struggle with it, and how you can build robust self-management systems before stepping foot into medical school.

Resources Mentioned:

• Dr. Tori Cordiano's Website & Newsletter: https://www.drtoricordiano.com/

• Dr. Cordiano's Parent Course on Executive Functioning: https://www.drtoricordiano.com/virtual-courses

• Dr. Lisa Damour's Podcast (Ask Lisa): Check out the Season Kickoff episode 288 featuring Dr. Tori Cordiano on executive functioning in teens: https://drlisadamour.com/resource/series/ask-lisa-podcast/

Executive Functioning Resources:

• Versteeg, M., et al. (2021). What Were You Thinking? Medical Students' Metacognition and Perceptions of Self-Regulated Learning. Teaching and Learning in Medicine, 33(5), 473–482.
• Jain, A., Prakash, K., & Malhotra, A. S. (2025). Transitioning to medical school: The intersection of mental health and time management. Journal of Neurosciences in Rural Practice, 16(4), 557-564.

• Hong, W. H., et al. (2015). Thinking about thinking: changes in first-year medical students' metacognition and its relation to performance. Medical education online, 20(1).

• Baars, M. A., Nije Bijvank, M., Tonnaer, G. H., & Jolles, J. (2015). Self-report measures of executive functioning are a determinant of academic performance in first-year students at a university of applied sciences. Frontiers in psychology, 6, 1131.

• The Smart but Scattered Guide to Success (Dawson & Guare)

In this episode, host, Christian Essman, welcomes Dr. Brian Steele, the inaugural Associate Dean for Admissions at the University of Georgia (UGA) School of Medicine. Together, they explore the birth of Georgia's newest medical school - the 159th MD-accredited institution in the U.S., a fitting tribute to the 159 counties it was built to serve.

Dr. Steele discusses the school's mission-driven approach to addressing Georgia's healthcare crisis, particularly in rural and underserved areas. You'll get an exclusive look at their innovative "Georgia Road Trip" orientation, where students travel across the state to experience the diverse communities they will one day serve before they ever step foot in a classroom.

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: [email protected]

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

UPCOMING INFO SESSIONS:

CWRU SOM Application Tips & Insights - May 20, 2026: Register Here

AAMC Virtual Fair - June 3 & 4, 2026: https://virtualfairs.aamc.org/Fair/UpcomingFairs

RESOURCES:

UGA School of Medicine: https://medicine.uga.edu/

Admissions: https://medicine.uga.edu/future-students/admissions/

Contact: [email protected]

In this episode, host Christian Essman sits down with Dr. Wendy Jackson, Associate Dean for Admissions at the University of Kentucky (UK) College of Medicine. Together, we dive into the unique "Kentucky Integrated Curriculum" that blends foundational science with clinical training from day one, and explore the school's innovative multi-campus system that spans the Commonwealth.

Dr. Jackson shares her own inspiring journey as a first-generation student and UKCOM alumna, talking candidly about her path from rural Ohio to leading admissions at the institution that shaped her career. You'll get the inside scoop on the distinct cultures of the four UK campuses: Lexington, Morehead, Bowling Green, and Northern Kentucky - and how the school's unique house system is organized into groups named after breeds of horses which fosters a collaborative, supportive environment across all four years.

If you're a prospective applicant, you'll hear valuable advice on the admissions process, including how to navigate campus selection on the secondary application, the importance of demonstrating a genuine "Kentucky tie," and what the committee looks for in high-quality clinical and shadowing experiences. Dr. Jackson also provides a behind-the-scenes look at their in-person interview day and how they review applications to find students committed to bridging healthcare gaps in rural and underserved populations.

Tune in for an insightful conversation about the "hidden gem" of Kentucky, rethinking the medical school playbook, and what it means to train physicians who are as personable and resilient as they are clinically skilled.

Perfect for aspiring med students, first-generation applicants, or anyone curious about how a top-tier state institution balances elite medical training with a deep-rooted mission to serve its community!

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: [email protected]

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:

UK College of Medicine: https://medicine.uky.edu/

Tour Sign-ups: https://medicine.uky.edu/sites/meded/tours

New Health Education Building: https://provost.uky.edu/michael-d-rankin-md-health-education-building

Admissions: https://medicine.uky.edu/sites/meded/admissions

Contact: [email protected]

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: [email protected]

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

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: [email protected]

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

CONTACT:

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

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: [email protected]

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:

[email protected]

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

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: [email protected]

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

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: [email protected]

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"

In this special episode, host, Christian Essman, sits down with Dr. Darcy Holtgrave, Program Manager of the MEDOP Advising Office at the University of Missouri. Drawing from her unique background as a folklorist and advisor, Dr. Holtgrave shares candid insights into the real questions, anxieties, and misconceptions faced by pre-med students.

Together, Christian and Darcy tackle four pivotal topics:

• The myth of the "checklist mentality" in building a med school application

• The true value of meaningful experiences over raw numbers of hours

• How non-medical activities (yes, even managing a car wash or fencing club) can enhance your candidacy

• The bridge (not "gap!") year—how to reframe and maximize intentional time between undergrad and med school

Dr. Holtgrave also introduces her approach of guiding students through values-based decision-making, urging pre-meds to align applications with personal purpose and authenticity—not just external comparison.

Whether you're overwhelmed by advice on Reddit, uncertain about your path, or just seeking reassurance on your journey, this episode is packed with honest guidance, practical strategies, and empathy for every stage of the pre-med process. Don't miss this wide-ranging, energizing, and deeply human conversation!

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: [email protected]

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 Pre-Med Competencies

Characteristics of 2nd year students: Gregg-Jolly et al, Sterling

Intrinsic motivation, flow: Pink, Csikszentmihalyi

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy – Hayes

And values decks!

The Values Deck Shalom H. Schwartz

Living Into Our Values Brené Brown, Dare to Lead

Personal Values Card Sort Miller et. al. Motivational Interviewing

Core Values List James Clear, Atomic Habits

The Live Your Values Deck Lisa Congdon & Andrea Niculescu

Join host Christian Essman, Senior Director of Admissions and Financial Aid at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, for a quick but information-packed update on the latest in medical school admissions. In this episode, Christian highlights important upcoming info sessions for prospective applicants, including dates and details on how to sign up. He also breaks down key updates for the 2025-2026 application cycle, sharing his expert insight on AMCAS timelines and why you shouldn't stress about hitting "submit" on the first possible day. Plus, Christian offers high-impact tips for crafting an application—covering everything from storytelling and feedback to owning your unique experiences and perfecting the details. If you're thinking about applying to medical school, you won't want to miss these brief strategies and important reminders to help you on your journey.

• CWRU School of Medicine MD Programs:
  • May 14, 2025 at 7:00-8:00 pm EST - Register
• Application Tips and Insight - don't hit send to AMCAS until you attend!:
  • May 22, 2025 at 4:00-5:00 pm EST - Register
• CWRU School of Medicine Admissions Site with more information.

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: [email protected]

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