Episode 86: The University of Kentucky College of Medicine

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]