In this episode of Admissions Straight Talk, host Dr. Valerie Wherley sits down with Accepted Admissions Consultant Alicia Nimonkar, an expert writing coach with a background in composition and rhetoric, to unpack one of the most important – and often most intimidating – parts of the medical school application: the personal statement. Alicia explains how applicants can use the AAMC’s premed competencies as a framework to craft authentic, focused narratives that highlight their strengths. From creating a timeline of formative experiences to developing an outline that connects recurring themes, she shares how to identify what makes your story uniquely yours – and how to make it resonate with admissions committees.Alicia also offers practical insight into the writing process itself: how many drafts it really takes, when to stop editing, and how to avoid the “too many cooks in the kitchen” trap of excessive feedback. She and Dr. Wherley discuss the power of resilience, effort, and voice – exploring how applicants can address challenges without sounding apologetic and how to write from a place of strength and advocacy. Whether you’re starting your first draft or polishing your final version, this episode will help you approach your personal statement with clarity, confidence, and purpose.Related ResourcesAAMC The Premed Competencies for Entering Medical StudentsMindsets: A View From Two ErasThe Obstacle Is the WayAlicia Nimonkar bio and contact informationRelated Admissions Straight Talk EpisodesThe Fastest Way to Medical School Is Slowly: Avoiding Early Premed Mistakes [Episode 608]How to Overcome the Biggest Weaknesses in Med School Applicat

In this inspiring episode of Admissions Straight Talk, host Dr. Valerie Wherley sits down with Dr. Tracy Kedian, professor of family medicine and associate dean of admissions at UMass Chan Medical School. Together, they explore how UMass Chan fosters not only academic excellence but also personal growth, leadership, and wellness among its medical students.Dr. Kedian discusses how programs such as WIN (“what I need”) Week and the Vista Curriculum create a supportive environment where students learn to lead with compassion and resilience. She also highlights the school’s emphasis on community engagement—from the Worcester campus to the Population-based Urban and Rural Community Health (PURCH) track in Springfield—and the critical importance of understanding the diverse communities physicians serve.Listeners will gain insight into how UMass Chan’s holistic approach prepares future doctors to thrive in medicine while maintaining their well-being and purpose. Whether you’re an aspiring physician or advising premed students, this episode offers an authentic look at a medical school that truly “walks the talk” of student support and community-driven medicine.Related ResourcesUMass Chan Medical SchoolVista CurriculumPURCH track LEAD@Lahey trackMorningside UniversityRelated Admissions Straight Talk EpisodesThe Fastest Way to Medical School Is Slowly: Avoiding Early Premed Mistakes [Episode 608]How to Overcome the Biggest Weaknesses in Med School Applications [Episode 605]How Many Med Schools Should You Apply To? [Episode 607] Tuft’s

What happens when you combine medicine, business, and technology? The cross-disciplinary Master of Science in Clinical Informatics Management degree at Stanford University combines all three of these disciplines. Over the course of just 12 months, students gain the skills to implement cutting-edge technologies, strengthen core business and leadership capabilities, and apply innovative solutions to mee the needs of diverse populations. In this episode of the Admissions Straight Talk podcast, Accepted medical school expert Dr. Valerie Wherley is joined by Dr. Kevin Schulman, Professor of Medicine at Stanford University and program director, to discuss the Stanford MCIM program. Dr. Wherley and Dr. Schulman they talk about tackling big problems in healthcare, why the MCiM degree was created, who the program is right for, and the options MCIM students have for their capstone project. Learn more about the Master of Science in Clinical Informatics Management program here: https://med.stanford.edu/content/sm/master-clinical-informatics-management.html/00:00 Welcome to the Admissions Straight Talk podcast00:49 How (and why) the MCIM degree was created 02:05 Cross-disciplinary approach04:01 Who is the MCiM program right for?06:04 ROI and marketable skills08:50 Capstone project options12:56 The Stanford design process14:32 MCiM application timeline and scholarship options15:39 The importance of letters of recommendation16:20 What makes an MCiM applicant stand out Related ResourcesDr. Kevin Schulman biographyStanford MCiM program informationStanford University Knight-Hennessy Scholars programFive Tips for Applying for Stanford’s Knight-Hennessy ScholarshipRelated EpisodesTransitioning from the Military to an MBA at Stanford GSB [Episode 471]

If you are a medical school reapplicant, tune in for today's episode of the Admissions Straight Talk podcast! Accepted medical school expert Dr. Valerie Wherley is joined by Mory Gould, current M1 medical student and former Accepted client who worked with Valerie when reapplying to medical school. Mory discusses the med school application process, the weaknesses he identified in his profile after not receiving any acceptances, and how he and Valerie made his second application cycle a success. If you are applying to med school -- for the first time OR the second time -- this episode is full of valuable advice.00:00 Welcome to the Admissions Straight Talk podcast00:29 Welcome to our guest, Mory Gould 01:36 Mory's first application cycle04:22 Weaknesses in the first application05:16 The importance of patient care experience07:56 Second application cycle and results08:50 Advice for med school reapplicants11:25 Vulnerability and openness to feedbackRelated ResourcesMory Gould contact information: morygould@gmail.comDr. Valerie Wherley bio and contact informationHealthcare Experience vs. Patient Care Experience... What’s the Difference?, Accepted YouTube videoUCLA David Geffen School of Medicine Secondary Application Essay Tips and Timeline [2025–2026], Class ProfileThe Importance of Extracurricular Activities for Medical School ApplicationsRelated EpisodesThe Fastest Way to Medical School Is Slowly: Avoiding Early Premed Mistakes [Episode 608]How Many Med Schools Should You Apply To? [Episode 607]How to Overcome the Biggest Weaknesses in Med School Applications [Episode

In this episode of the Admissions Straight Talk podcast, Dr. Valerie Wherley is joined by Accepted medical school consultant Dr. Barry Rothman. Valerie and Barry discuss some of the common mistakes that pre-med students make early on in their journey to medical school. Barry shares his thoughts on undergraduates majors, osteopathic medical schools, and the best types of patient-facing experience. If you are an undergraduate student planning to apply to medical school, you won't want to miss this episode!00:00 Welcome to the Admissions Straight Talk podcast00:58 Welcoming Dr. Barry Rothman01:20 Errors pre-meds make in their approach to med school02:58 Academics and prerequisites 05:46 How important is your undergraduate major?07:38 Electives, clinical experience, and research09:54 Tips for gaining clinical experience 15:34 Letters of recommendation 16:50 Osteopathic medical schools18:53 Closing advice for pre-medsRelated ResourcesDr. Barry Rothman bio and contact informationRetaking Classes for Med School: What Every Premed Needs to KnowPremed Confidential: The Wisdom of JournalingThe Basics of Postbac Programs: What You Need to KnowRelated EpisodesHow to Overcome the Biggest Weaknesses in Med School Applications [Episode 605]Rejection and Reapplication: How to Respond [Episode 523] Inside the Emory PA Program: Admissions, Curriculum, and Keys to Success [Episode 603]Inside Pitt Med School: Innovations in Medical Education [Episode 602]

The Admissions Straight Talk podcast is back with a fresh look, and new host! After retiring this summer, Accepted founder Linda Abraham turned the podcast reigns over to Accepted admissions expert Dr. Valerie Wherley. In this week's episode, Valerie talks with Dr. Herman "Flash" Gordon, Accepted medical school consultant and former admissions committee chair at the University of Arizona College of Medicine. Valerie and Flash discuss a question we hear almost daily from medical school applicants: How many med schools should I apply to? They discuss target ranges, the importance of fit, and the truth about "reach schools" and "safety schools."00:00 Welcome to the Admissions Straight Talk podcast00:37 Welcome Dr. Herman "Flash" Gordon02:13 How many med schools should you apply to? 03:25 The importance of fit06:02 School choice: Beyond GPA and MCAT scores10:08 Alignment with school's missions12:49 Reach, attainable, and safety schoolsRelated ResourcesMedical School Selectivity Index, a free toolMedical School Secondary Essay TipsSchedule a free consultation with Dr. GordonRelated ShowsHow to Overcome the Biggest Weaknesses in Med School Applications [Episode 605]Inside Pitt Med School: Innovations in Medical Education [Episode 602]Navigating Admissions at the University of Washington School of Medicine [Episode 601]Inside Geisinger Med School Admissions with Dr. Michelle Schmude [Episode 600]Follow UsYouTube

In her final episode as host of Admissions Straight Talk, Accepted founder Linda Abraham shares reflections and lessons from over 30 years in the admissions world. As she prepares for retirement, Linda offers a mix of personal insight, practical advice, and hard-earned wisdom on navigating both graduate admissions and life’s challenges. She discusses stress, imposter syndrome, setbacks, and the power of resilience, encouraging listeners to take control of their future, own their story, and pursue their goals with determination. Whether you’re just beginning your admissions journey or reevaluating your path, Linda’s final message is one of growth and possibility.Related ResourcesFree consultation Accepted’s Free GuidesAccepted’s Sample EssaysRelated Podcast EpisodesThe Unbelievable Story of an Orthopedic Surgeon, podcast Episode 136Ida Valentine: Investment Banker, Inspirational Speaker, HBS 2021, podcast Episode 311Follow UsYouTubeFacebookLinkedInContact Uswww.accepted.comsupport@accepted.com+1 (310) 815-9553

In the 605th episode of Admissions Straight Talk, Dr. Barry Rothman, current Accepted consultant and former Health Professions Advisor and Director of San Francisco State University’s Pre-Health Professions Certificate Program, joins Linda Abraham to explore how med school applicants can overcome common application weaknesses. From low GPAs and MCAT scores to limited clinical experience, research, or community service, Dr. Rothman shares practical strategies for strengthening your candidacy and making smart, mission-aligned school selections. The episode also covers sensitive topics like academic infractions, mental health challenges, and the importance of timing and fit. Whether you’re reapplying or just beginning your journey, this conversation is packed with expert advice to help you stand out.Related LinksMed School Admissions QuizDr. Barry Rothman Bio Applying to Medical School with Low Stats: What You Need to KnowMedical School Selectivity IndexRelated Admissions Straight Talk EpisodesRejection and Reapplication: How to Respond Inside the Emory PA Program: Admissions, Curriculum, and Keys to SuccessInside Pitt Med School: Innovations in Medical EducationInside Geisinger Med School AdmissionsAccepted: Your Guide to CU School of Medicine Follow UsYouTubeFacebookLinkedIn

In this episode of Admission Straight Talk, Linda Abraham interviews Dr. Christy Bozic, the Executive Director of Duke University's Masters of Engineering Management (MEM) program. They discuss the unique aspects of the MEM program, including its focus on blending technical engineering skills with business acumen, the differences between online and in-person formats, and the importance of professionalism in engineering management. Dr. Bozic shares insights into the admissions process, the challenges faced by online students, and the incorporation of AI into the curriculum. The conversation also touches on the new co-op program and future directions for the MEM program.TakeawaysDuke's MEM program is one of the oldest and largest in the field.The program aims to equip engineers with business skills.Online and in-person programs share core courses but differ in delivery.Residency requirements enhance networking and community building for online students.Time management is a key challenge for online students.Professionalism is emphasized through five core principles.The admissions process is the same for both online and in-person programs.Video introductions help applicants showcase their personality.AI is integrated into the curriculum to prepare students for future challenges.The new co-op program offers practical experience opportunities for students.Relevant Resources:Dukes’ Masters of Engineering Management (MEM)Applying to Graduate Engineering Programs: What You Need to KnowHow to Get Accepted to Graduate Engineering ProgramsHow to Write Your Mast

In this episode of Admissions Straight Talk, the Assistant Professor and Director of Admissions at the Emory University Physician Assistant Program, Allan Platt,  offers an insightful look into the Emory University’s Physician Assistant Program. He breaks down the program's distinctive curriculum, including its unique approach to anatomy, and shares valuable advice for prospective students. Allan dives into Emory's PA program admissions process, emphasizing the importance of clinical experience, community service, and thoughtful personal narratives. He also explains the blinded Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) format and highlights common mistakes applicants should avoid.Relevant LinksEmory Physicia Assistant ProgramThe Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Physician AssistantCASPA: Everything You Need to Know about the Experiences Section How to Get Accepted to Physician Assistant (PA) Programs Related  Admissions Straight Talk EpisodesHow To Get Accepted To Duke’s Physician Assistant Program How to Get into Physician Assistant Programs How To Get Accepted To the University of Iowa’s PA ProgramAn Inside Look at Yale’s Online PA Program

In this episode of Admissions Straight Talk, Dr. Beth Piraino, Associate Dean of Admissions at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine (UPSOM), explores the school’s innovative Three Rivers Curriculum, emphasizing small-group learning, early clinical exposure, and the integration of "Streams" (special interest areas) and Threads" (core competencies like leadership and clinical reasoning). Dr. Piraino also discusses the role of secondary essays in evaluating applicants and explores why teamwork, resilience, and cultural awareness are important in the admissions process. She goes on to  highlight a common mistake applicants make in the application process.Relevant Links:University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Are You Ready to Apply Med School QuizRelated Shows:Inside Geisinger Med School Admissions with Dr. Michelle SchmudeAccepted: Your Guide to CU School of Medicine Get Accepted to Washington University School of MedicineDeep Dive into Duke Medical: An Interview with Dr. Linton YeeGet Accepted to Loyola Stritch Medical SchoolFollow UsYouTubeFacebookLinkedInContact Uswww.accepted.comsupport@accepted.com+1 (310) 815-9553

In this episode of Admissions Straight Talk, host Linda Abraham interviews Dr. LeeAnna Muzquiz, Associate Dean for Admissions at the University of Washington School of Medicine (UWSOM). Dr. Muzquiz, a graduate of UWSOM and a family physician with ties to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, discusses the unique five-state WWAMI (Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, Idaho) curriculum, which allows students to complete their foundational training in their home states.The School of Medicine emphasizes training for rural and underserved communities, offering special programs like TRUST (Targeted Rural and Underserved Scholar Track) and CUSP (Community Urban Scholars Program) aimed at fostering future physicians committed to these populations. Dr. Muzquiz highlights the comprehensive and transparent admissions process at UWSOM, including the importance of personal storytelling in applications and interviews. Follow UsYouTubeFacebookLinkedInContact Uswww.accepted.comsupport@accepted.com+1 (310) 815-9553

Welcome to the 600th episode of Admissions Straight Talk! In this milestone episode, host Linda Abraham sits down with Dr. Michelle Schmude, Vice Provost for Enrollment Management and Professor of Medical Education at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, to explore the innovative and comprehensive Total Health Curriculum.Dr. Schmude shares how this evidence-based program prepares medical students for the complexities of 21st-century healthcare through early clinical experiences, team-based learning, and a focus on systems-based and humanistic medicine.Listeners will also learn about exciting updates at Geisinger, including the evolution to Geisinger College of Health Sciences and its impact on healthcare education, as well as details on the Abigail Geisinger Scholars Program, which allows students to graduate debt-free in exchange for service in underserved areas.Relevant Links:Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Med School Admissions: What you Need to Know to Get AcceptedEvaluating a Situational Judgment Test for Use in Medical School Admissions: Two Years of AAMC PREview Exam Administration DataRelated Shows:Accepted: Your Guide to CU School of Medicine An Interview With the Temple Katz School of Medicine Admissions Dean NYMC: How to Get InHow to Write Essays That Will Get You Into Medical SchoolFollow UsYouTubeFacebookLinkedInContact Uswww.accepted.comsupport@accepted.com+1 (310) 815-9553

In this episode of Admissions Straight Talk, host Linda Abraham interviews Dr. Jeffrey SooHoo, Assistant Dean for Admissions at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. They discuss the unique aspects of the Colorado medical curriculum, including the new Trek curriculum, the importance of longitudinal integrated clerkships, and the various tracks available for students. Dr. SooHoo also shares insights into the secondary application process, the role of the CASPER test, and the criteria for interview invitations. The conversation highlights common mistakes applicants make, the importance of research experience, and the support systems in place for medical students. Dr. SooHoo emphasizes the competitive nature of medical school admissions and the holistic review process used to evaluate applicants.Takeaways:The Colorado School of Medicine has a unique Trek curriculum launched in 2021.Longitudinal integrated clerkships allow for deeper relationships with preceptors and patients.Students can choose from various tracks, including rural medicine and global health.The secondary application focuses on value alignment with the school's pillars: leadership, curiosity, and commitment.CASPER is used to assess non-cognitive competencies in applicants.The admissions process is highly competitive, with many qualified applicants not receiving offers.Interviews are conducted virtually and include both group and individual assessments.Research experience is beneficial but not mandatory for applicants.Common mistakes include not understanding the competitiveness of admissions and failing to tell a cohesive story in applications.Support systems like Compass Guides help students navigate their medical education.Relevant Links:University of Colorado School of MedicineAccepted's Med School Calculator QuizRelated Shows:Washington University School of MedicineDeep Dive Into Duke Medical: An Interview with Associate Dean Linton

In this episode, Bruce DelMonico, Assistant Dean of Admissions at Yale School of Management, shares an overview of the Yale School of Management. The program offers a distinctive two-year, full-time MBA program emphasizing an interdisciplinary, integrated curriculum to prepare students for leadership in business and society. Bruce discusses how aspiring applicants can prepare for and approach the extensive application process, which includes a GMAT/GRE test score, written essays, a resume, a video component, a behavioral assessment, and an interview. Links mentioned in this episode:Yale SOM MBA AdmissionsYale SOM Application GuideYale SOM Essay TipsMBA ROI CalculatorRelated Admissions Straight Talk EpisodesHow to Create Successful MBA Applications How to Get Accepted to UCLA Anderson How To Get Into UVA Darden’s MBA ProgramHow to Get Accepted to Cornell Johnson MBA Follow UsYouTubeFacebookLinkedInContact Uswww.accepted.comsupport@accepted.com+1 (310) 815-9553

The NYU Stern Masters of Business Analytics and AI (MSBAAI) program is a one-year specialized degree program that trains students to make data-driven decisions. Dr. Anindya Ghose, Heinz Riehl Chair Professor of Technology and Marketing at New York University's Leonard Stern School of Business and Director of the Masters of Business Analytics and AI Program at Stern discusses everything applicants need to know. He shares the core aim of the program which is to impart cross-functional skills that can be applied across industries. Additionally, Dr. Ghose highlights the career path for graduates of the program.Show Links:Masters of Business Analytics and AI Program  Applying to Graduate Engineering Programs: What You Need to KnowApplication Advice from Accepted Data Science ClientsSeeking a Graduate Degree in Artificial Intelligence? Related Admissions Straight Talk Episodes:ROI and NYU's Part-time MBAStern at NYU Abu Dhabi: A Full-Time MBA in the Middle East Stanford’s MCiM Combines Technology, Healthcare, and Business Berkeley Haas' Master of Financial Engineering Program CMU Tepper’s MS in Business Analytics: All You Need to Know What’s New at NYU Stern’s Online Masters of Science in Quantitative Management Follow Us

Dawna Levenson, Assistant Dean of MIT Sloan School of Management, provides a thorough examination into the MIT Sloan School of Management's full-time MBA program, which is mission-driven, focused on identifying and solving the world's biggest and most complex problems. The program offers flexibility with a one-semester core and three semesters of electives, allowing students to pursue seven different certificates or concentrations. Dawna discusses the comprehensive application process, which includes a cover letter, one-page resume, 60-second video, and a behavioral video interview. She shares her tips on how to successfully approach the application. Dawna also highlights the early admission program for current college students and graduate students.Links mentioned in the show:MIT Sloan AdmissionsMIT Sloan MBA EarlyMIT Sloan Application TipsRelated Admissions Straight Talk Episodes How to Get Accepted to UCLA Anderson  Prepare for the GRE and GMAT Focus  How To Get Into UVA Darden’s MBA Program How to Get Accepted to Cornell Johnson MBA  How to Respond to the New Harvard MBA Essay QuestionsFollow UsYouTubeFacebookLinkedInContact Uswww.accepted.comsupport@accepted.com+1 (310) 815-9553

In this episode, Dr. Valerie Ratts, the Associate Dean for Admissions at The Washington University School of Medicine, offers an overview of the unique program. She describes the "Gateway Curriculum" which provides early clinical exposure and flexibility for students to explore different areas of medicine, including research, innovation, advocacy, and education. Dr. Ratts overviews Wash U’s holistic approach to admissions and the multi-step interview process. Listeners will also learn about the school’s robust student success program, with faculty coaches to provide personalized guidance and support throughout medical school. Relevant Links:WashU Medical SchoolMed QuizRelated Admission Straight Talk EpisodesGetting Into Med School Isn’t Easy…But This Applicant Did It! Get Accepted to Loyola Stritch Medical School Submit Successful Secondaries for Medical School Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Follow UsYouTubeFacebookLinkedInContact Uswww.accepted.comsupport@accepted.com+1 (310) 815-9553

In this episode of Admissions Straight Talk, host Linda Abraham shares a strategic framework for a successful MBA application, with tips that can benefit applicants to any program. She discusses how to choose the right schools to apply to, demonstrate your knowledge of the programs you are applying to, effectively present yourself throughout the application, and review the application materials before submission.Follow UsYouTubeFacebookLinkedInContact Uswww.accepted.comsupport@accepted.com+1 (310) 815-9553

Dr. Linton Yee, Associate Dean for Admissions at Duke University School of Medicine joins us to discuss how applicants can earn a spot in this highly competitive program. Dr. Yee walks listeners through the unique curriculum which focuses on integrating basic science and clinical experiences from the first year. In addition to strong academic performance, Duke looks for clinical and research experiences, as well as a vision for the future in medicine. Dr. Yee gives an inside look at what applicants can expect from the MMI interviews.Relevant Links:Duke Med SchoolMed QuizRelated Admissions Straight Talk Episodes:Getting Into Med School Isn’t Easy…But This Applicant Did It! Get Accepted to Loyola Stritch Medical School Submit Successful Secondaries for Medical School Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Follow UsYouTubeFacebookLinkedInContact Uswww.accepted.comsupport@accepted.com+1 (310) 815-9553