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 podcast
00:58 Welcoming Dr. Barry Rothman
01:20 Errors pre-meds make in their approach to med school
02:58 Academics and prerequisites
05:46 How important is your undergraduate major?
07:38 Electives, clinical experience, and research
09:54 Tips for gaining clinical experience
15:34 Letters of recommendation
16:50 Osteopathic medical schools
18:53 Closing advice for pre-meds

Related Resources

• Dr. Barry Rothman bio and contact information
• Retaking Classes for Med School: What Every Premed Needs to Know
• Premed Confidential: The Wisdom of Journaling
• The Basics of Postbac Programs: What You Need to Know

Related Episodes

• How 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]
• Inside Geisinger Med School Admissions with Dr. Michelle Schmude [Episode 600]

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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 podcast
00:37 Welcome Dr. Herman "Flash" Gordon
02:13 How many med schools should you apply to?
03:25 The importance of fit
06:02 School choice: Beyond GPA and MCAT scores
10:08 Alignment with school's missions
12:49 Reach, attainable, and safety schools

Related Resources

• Medical School Selectivity Index, a free tool
• Medical School Secondary Essay Tips
• Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Gordon

Related Shows

• How 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]

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Contact Us
www.accepted.com
support@accepted.com
+1 (310) 815-9553

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 Resources

• Free consultation
• Accepted’s Free Guides
• Accepted’s Sample Essays

Related Podcast Episodes

• The Unbelievable Story of an Orthopedic Surgeon, podcast Episode 136
• Ida Valentine: Investment Banker, Inspirational Speaker, HBS 2021, podcast Episode 311

Follow Us
YouTube
Facebook
LinkedIn

Contact Us
www.accepted.com
support@accepted.com
+1 (310) 815-9553