PreMed Power Podcasts

This portal presents a series of podcasts that provide real-life insights and tips on applying to and being successful in medical school. These podcasts, which were recorded in front of a live audience, can be downloaded and listened to when you have the time and when you need the inspiration.

The podcasts are supplemented by PDFs of PowerPoint slides that you can return to for additional resources.

Check back often as we will continually add to this portal.

American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) Applicant Guide and Howard College of Medicine Application Process. In the first part of this episode (46:49), we discuss the role and benefits of using AMCAS, discuss general timelines and important dates, provide a review of the AMCAS application, discuss strategies for receiving letters of recommendation. We then discuss the Howard College of Medicine application process, including timetables, secondary applications, the medical school interview, and the importance of emotional intelligence. The presentation and resources are included in this PDF.

Best Practices: Compiling an Impressive Medical School Application. In the first part of this episode (47:01), we dig into what in the medical school application, including suggestions on how to highlight your academic excellence, clinical and volunteer experience, research and scholarly activities, and extracurricular activities and leadership. In the second part of the episode, we focus on preparing for and writing your personal statement. The presentation and resources are included in this PDF. You may also access the YouTube video discussed in the podcast on Eight Tips for Writing Your Med School Personal Statement.

The Need for Black Physicians in America. In this episode (24:58), we discuss concerns for the future physician workforce due to rapidly-changing demographics and the importance of diversity. We look at the proportion of Black physicians in the U.S. and hone in on the projected physician demand from 2019 to 2034 and then do a pulse check as to where we are now related to diversity in medical school enrollees and matriculants. The presentation and resources are included in this PDF.

Skills Building and Self Assessment. In this episode (31:43), we present the 15 core competencies for entering medical students and the critical role self assessment plays in preparing for medical school. We then move into strategies to create a personalized study approach as part of a long-term plan for growth and adaptation. We conclude by showing how external input from mentors, peers, and advisors can provide valuable input into the medical school application process. The presentation and resources are included in this PDF.

Taking Care of Yourself on the Journey. In this episode (33:16), we dig into the importance of starting early on your journey, being mindful of taking care of our mental health while preparing for medical school and at every step in your studies.

Tips for Finding Scholarships. In this episode (18:20), we discuss the importance of scholarships, including university-specific opportunities, scholarships offered by medical associations and foundations, and online platforms/databases for scholarship searching. We discuss the link between academic achievement and scholarship eligibility, the importance of community involvement, and seeking assistance based on financial need. The presentation and resources are included in this PDF.