Admissions Straight Talk

Linda Abraham
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Advice from experts on the MBA, medical school, law school, and graduate school admissions process.

  1. How This Reapplicant Got into PA School [Episode 621]

    3 DAYS AGO

    How This Reapplicant Got into PA School [Episode 621]

    Send Harold your questions! This episode of Admissions Straight Talk covers the essential strategies for overcoming rejection and successfully reapplying to physician assistant (PA) programs. In this episode, host Dr. Valerie Wherley speaks with Cassandra Zoetjes, a first-generation college student and current PA student at Sacred Heart University who successfully navigated three application cycles. Cassandra shares how she transformed her candidacy by pursuing a master’s in nutrition at Columbia University and diversifying her clinical experiences as a scribe and a medical assistant. This conversation is especially valuable for reapplicants facing an unsuccessful cycle or those considering a graduate degree to bolster their academic profile. Cassandra provides a transparent look at the emotional toll of the “drinking from a fire hose” aspect of PA school and the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Her story serves as a road map for applicants who need to add depth to their writing and medical knowledge. Listeners will gain concrete insights into these topics: How a specialized master’s degree can demonstrate academic rigorThe benefit of diversifying patient care experience across specialtiesStrategies for crafting a resilient mindset and an honest personal statementWhat to expect in a PA curriculum0:00 Introducing the Journey to PA School 1:06 Meet Cassandra: First-Gen Student Success 2:11 Choosing the PA Profession 3:39 Navigating Three PA Application Cycles 4:52 Strengthening Your GPA With a Master’s Degree 7:28 Diversifying Clinical and Volunteer Experience 9:58 Surviving the PA School Curriculum 11:47 Leadership and Student Government Opportunities in PA School 13:04 Advice for Reapplicants and Future PAs Follow Us YouTube Facebook LinkedIn Contact Us www.accepted.com support@accepted.com +1 (310) 815-9553

    15 min
  2. How to Get the Most Out of Premed Shadowing [Episode 620]

    30 APR

    How to Get the Most Out of Premed Shadowing [Episode 620]

    Send Harold your questions! What does it take to maximize your premed shadowing opportunity, and why does this experience matter so much in your application? In this episode of Admissions Straight Talk, Dr. Valerie Wherley speaks with Dr. Rachel L. Schreiber, a board-certified allergist/immunologist and former president of the Greater Washington Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Society. Recognized as a “Top Doctor” by Washingtonian magazine, Bethesda Magazine, and Washington Consumers’ Checkbook, Dr. Schreiber shares practical advice on finding shadowing opportunities, keeping a journal, and asking the right questions. Additionally, Dr. Wherley and Dr. Schreiber address the nonnegotiable topic of patient confidentiality. From HIPAA requirements, to what you can safely write about in your application essays, to the risks of discussing patients on social media, the bottom line is this: you must conduct yourself with professionalism from the moment you walk in the clinic, including after you walk out. If you are preparing to apply to medical school, this episode will change how you think about every hour you spend shadowing. 0:00  Meet Dr. Rachel L. Schreiber 0:30  Finding and Securing Premed Shadowing Opportunities 3:14  The Real Purpose of Shadowing Before Med School 4:23  Why You Should Keep a Shadowing Journal 7:08  Asking Questions and Choosing Specialties 13:25  Patient Privacy and HIPAA Follow Us YouTube Facebook LinkedIn Contact Us www.accepted.com support@accepted.com +1 (310) 815-9553

    16 min
  3. How to Get into Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine [Episode 619]

    16 APR

    How to Get into Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine [Episode 619]

    Send Harold your questions! What does it take to stand out and become a competitive applicant to Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine (TUCOM), and what makes this program unique among osteopathic medical schools? In this episode of Admissions Straight Talk, Accepted consultant and podcast host Dr. Valerie Wherley speaks with Dr. Alesia Wagner, associate dean of academic affairs at TUCOM. Together, they explore how the school’s mission shapes its curriculum, how its 100% residency match rate reflects the breadth of specialty opportunities available to students, and how TUCOM’s approach to clinical education prepares future osteopathic physicians for a wide range of medical careers. If you are researching osteopathic medical schools or preparing your application, this conversation provides valuable insight into what sets TUCOM apart and what it takes to be a competitive applicant. 0:00 Meet Dr. Alesia Wagner, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at TUCOM 0:42 Overview of Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine 4:56 Residency Match Data: Specialties and Outcomes 6:50 Clinical Rotation Sites and Student Placement at TUCOM 9:53 Primary Care vs. Specialty Matches: Breaking the Pigeonhole Myth 11:13 TUCOM’s Pre-Clinical Electives and the Clinical Distinction Program 16:34 Culinary Medicine and Nutrition Education Electives 19:56 Interprofessional Education and the Student-Run Free Clinic 23:53 What Makes a Competitive Applicant 29:11 Life on TUCOM’s Campus in Northern California Related Resources Bio for Dr. Alesia WagnerTouro University College of Osteopathic MedicineTouro’s Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment Clinic at MiddletownTUCOM AcademicsRelated Episodes How to Get into MSU’s College of Osteopathic Medicine [Episode 537]The Bryn Mawr Postbac Premed Program [Episode 614]Is There Such a Thing as Too Many Drafts? Writing a Standout Med School Personal Statement [Episode 612] Follow Us YouTube Facebook LinkedIn Contact Us www.accepted.com support@accepted.com +1 (310) 815-9553

    30 min
  4. Baylor College of Medicine: Admissions, Curriculum, and What Makes a Strong Applicant [Episode 618]

    2 APR

    Baylor College of Medicine: Admissions, Curriculum, and What Makes a Strong Applicant [Episode 618]

    Send Harold your questions! What does Baylor College of Medicine look for in applicants, and how is its program evolving to meet the needs of today’s medical students? In this episode of Admissions Straight Talk, host Dr. Valerie Wherley speaks with Dr. Jesus Vallejo, senior associate dean of admissions at Baylor College of Medicine. Together, they explore Baylor’s dual-campus model, early clinical exposure, innovative curriculum, and extensive mentorship opportunities. Dr. Vallejo also shares how Baylor College of Medicine evaluates applicants holistically and what distinguishes those who stand out in a highly competitive pool. If you’re applying to medical school or considering Baylor, this episode offers valuable insights to guide your strategy. 00:00 Baylor College of Medicine Overview 00:30 Baylor College of Medicine: Houston versus Temple Campus Experience  02:10 In-State versus Out-of-State Admissions at Baylor College of Medicine 04:10 Early Patient Exposure at Baylor College of Medicine 06:10 Baylor College of Medicine’s Modern Curriculum and Learning Style 10:10 Research Requirements for Baylor College of Medicine Applicants 14:25 Baylor College of Medicine’s Mentorship and Student Support Programs 20:10 Baylor College of Medicine’s HEAL Program and Humanities in Medicine 24:05 What Baylor College of Medicine Looks for in Applicants 25:50 Final Advice for Medical School Applicants Follow Us YouTube Facebook LinkedIn Contact Us www.accepted.com support@accepted.com +1 (310) 815-9553

    26 min
  5. Inside the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell [Episode 617]

    19 MAR

    Inside the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell [Episode 617]

    Send Harold your questions! In this episode of Admissions Straight Talk, host Dr. Valerie Wherley welcomes Dr. Rona Woldenberg, associate dean for admissions and interim associate dean of student affairs at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. Dr. Woldenberg explains how the school’s unique partnership with Northwell Health provides students with consistent clinical training opportunities and a dynamic learning environment. The conversation highlights Zucker’s rapid rise as a top-tier research institution and explores the innovative educational model that emphasizes hands-on experience from the very beginning of medical school.  One of the school’s most distinctive features is its EMT training program, in which first-year medical students become licensed EMTs during their first nine weeks and participate in real emergency response scenarios. Dr. Woldenberg also discusses the school’s commitment to inclusive education, cultural humility in patient care, and the importance of collaboration in modern medicine. Finally, she shares what the admissions committee looks for in successful applicants – including curiosity, resilience, teamwork, and a growth mindset. If you’re considering applying to medical school – or simply want insight into how innovative programs are shaping physician training – this episode offers valuable guidance. 00:00 Introduction 00:33 The Founding of the Zucker School of Medicine 04:05 Zucker School of Medicine Admissions Stats and Growing Applicant Interest 07:59 Research Reputation and National Rankings 11:21 Building an Inclusive Medical School Environment and Cultural Humility in the Curriculum 16:32 EMT Training During the First Nine Weeks and Mass Casualty Incident Day Simulation 21:00 Student Feedback on the EMT Experience 23:42 What the Zucker School of Medicine Looks for in Applicants 27:18 Final Advice for Prospective Applicants Related Resources Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/NorthwellDr. Rona Woldenberg bioMedical School Secondary Essay Tips A Strategic Guide for Applying to Medical School Related Episodes Inside the University of Miami’s Three-Year M.D. Accelerated Pathway [Episode 615]The Bryn Mawr Postbac Premed Program [Episode 614]Inside UMass Chan: How Wellness, Community, and Leadership Shape Future Physicians [Episode 611]Follow Us YouTube Facebook LinkedIn Contact Us www.accepted.com support@accepted.com +1 (310) 815-9553

    28 min
  6. How GW Law Reviews Applications: Timing, Waitlists, LSAT Optional, and Scholarships [Episode 616]

    19 FEB

    How GW Law Reviews Applications: Timing, Waitlists, LSAT Optional, and Scholarships [Episode 616]

    Send Harold your questions! Applying to law school and wondering how admissions decisions really get made? In this episode of Admissions Straight Talk, Accepted Law Consultant Brigitte talks with Sophia Sim, associate dean for admissions and financial aid at the George Washington University Law School (GW Law), about what applicants need to know – from rolling admissions timelines and waitlists to scholarships, LSAT-optional pathways, and professional etiquette. With decades of experience in law school admissions, Sophia offers clear, honest advice to help applicants make smarter decisions throughout the cycle. 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:43 The Challenges of Law School Admissions 05:10 Understanding the GW Law Admissions Process 08:26 The GW Law Waitlist Process Explained 10:58 Navigating the GW Law Personal Statement 13:51 LSAT Optional: Who Should Consider It? 16:37 GW Law Part-Time Program Insights 19:15 Final Thoughts and Advice Resources Sophia Sim bioGW Law JD AdmissionsLaw School Admissions Calculator, a free toolRelated Admissions Straight Talk Episodes How to Get into George Washington School of Law, Episode 584Get Accepted to Cornell School of Law, Episode 590How to Get into Washington University in St. Louis School of Law, Episode 579Follow Us YouTube Facebook LinkedIn Contact Us www.accepted.com support@accepted.com +1 (310) 815-9553

    33 min
  7. Inside the University of Miami’s Three-Year M.D. Accelerated Pathway [Episode 615]

    22 JAN

    Inside the University of Miami’s Three-Year M.D. Accelerated Pathway [Episode 615]

    Send Harold your questions! Can you earn an MD in three years without sacrificing training quality? In this episode of Admissions Straight Talk, Dr. Valerie Wherley sits down with Dr. Jonathan Tolentino to explore the University of Miami’s three-year Accelerated Pathway to Residency Program. Learn how the program works, who it’s designed for, how clinical immersion and scholarly projects are integrated, and what admissions committees look for in competitive applicants. Dr. Tolentino also explains residency outcomes, specialty options, and the safety net for students who need to return to the four-year track. A must-listen for applicants weighing accelerated MD programs. 00:00 Overview of the University of Miami 3-Year Accelerated MD Program 03:05 Accelerated MD Curriculum Structure & Integrated Coursework 05:50 Clinical Training, Longitudinal Experience & Research Opportunities 08:35 Residency Match Outcomes & Specialty Pathways for Accelerated MD Students 11:13 Logistics, Timeline & Student Considerations in a 3-Year MD Program 13:54 How Competitive Is the UMiami Accelerated MD Program? Admissions Insights 25:11 Is the University of Miami 3-Year Accelerated MD Program Right for You? Related Resources  Dr. Jonathan Tolentino bioFor more information on the University of Miami’s Accelerated Pathway, contact Dr. Tolentino at  jxt1084@med.miami.edu Erica Simms at esimms@med.miami.eduUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine Three-Year M.D. Accelerated Pathway Medical School Secondary Essay Tips A Strategic Guide for Applying to Medical School Related Admissions Straight Talk Episodes Is There Such a Thing as Too Many Drafts? Writing a Standout Med School Personal Statement [Episode 612]How to Apply Successfully to Med School from Postbac Programs [Episode 526]Follow Us YouTube Facebook LinkedIn Contact Us www.accepted.com support@accepted.com +1 (310) 815-9553

    26 min
  8. The Bryn Mawr Postbac Premed Program [Episode 614]

    8 JAN

    The Bryn Mawr Postbac Premed Program [Episode 614]

    Send Harold your questions! In this episode of Admissions Straight Talk, Dr. Valerie Wherley welcomes Dr. Glenn Cummings, associate dean and director of health professions advising at Bryn Mawr, for an in-depth look at one of the nation’s oldest and most respected career-changer post-bac pathways. Dr. Cummings explains the distinctive mission and history of the Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program – founded in 1972 at Bryn Mawr College – and clarifies what truly defines a “career changer” in the post-bac world. He walks listeners through the program’s rigorous 12-month curriculum – including the accelerated summer chemistry sequence and the full-time fall and spring science load – while also outlining how Bryn Mawr supports students through intensive academic advising, structured MCAT preparation, and opportunities for clinical volunteering, research, and service.  Dr. Cummings also highlights the program’s unique advantages, such as its extensive network of medical school linkage partnerships, its individualized W.I.S.E. advising model, and its robust alumni mentoring system. In addition, he discusses what the admissions committee looks for in competitive applicants: strong academic performance, demonstrated motivation for medicine, a history of service, and the maturity to thrive in a tight-knit, collaborative cohort.  Whether you’re a true career changer, a recent graduate ready to pivot toward medicine, or simply exploring structured post-bac options, this episode offers valuable insights into how Bryn Mawr prepares students not only for the application process but also for success in medical school and beyond.  00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:35 History of the Bryn Mawr Postbac Premed Program 01:47 Defining a Career Changer vs. Academic Enhancer 02:08 Who the Program Is Designed For 05:05 Curriculum Overview and 12-Month Structure 07:19 Unique Features of the Bryn Mawr Postbac 07:25 Medical School Linkage Programs 09:45 W.I.S.E. Advising Model and Alumni Mentorship 12:17 Preparing Students for Med School Applications 14:10 Clinical Volunteering, Research, and Service 17:15 What Makes a Competitive Bryn Mawr Applicant 21:40 Letters of Recommendation and Applicant Evaluation 23:50 Final Advice  Related Resources Dr. Glenn Cummings contact information Bryn Mawr Postbac Program email: postbac@brynmawr.eduThe Basics of Postbac Programs: What You Need to KnowRelated Admissions Straight Talk Episodes How to Apply Successfully to Med School from Postbac Programs [Episode 526]The Fastest Way to Medical School Is Slowly: Avoiding Early Premed Mistakes [Episode 608] Follow Us YouTube Facebook LinkedIn Contact Us www.accepted.com support@accepted.com +1 (310) 815-9553

    25 min
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About

Advice from experts on the MBA, medical school, law school, and graduate school admissions process.

Information

  • Creator
    Linda Abraham
  • Years Active
    2012 - 2026
  • Episodes
    142
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Admissions Straight Talk
  • Show Website
    Admissions Straight Talk

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