Sevo Sistas

🧵 Episode Highlights

• 🎯 Lauretta reflects on her unmatched cycle and lays out her strategy for a successful second try.
• 📬 Reached out to programs after matching into a TY year to request rotations and stay top of mind.
• 🏛️ Walked into the hospital surgical suite to self-advocate and was introduced directly to anesthesia leadership.
• 🤝 Attended the NMA conference and networked her way into new opportunities and rotations.
• 💼 Balanced TY rotations with strategic observerships and research to build a compelling application.
• 🧠 Credits The Sevo Sistas Podcast with giving her insight, motivation, and structure for her game plan.
• ✍🏽 Started working on her personal statement early and sought feedback from multiple mentors.
• 📱 Leveraged Twitter, LinkedIn, and cold emails to network and gain visibility.
• 🩺 Applied to 87 anesthesia programs → received 5 interview invites → matched at Medical College of Wisconsin.
• 🧳 Made sacrifices and traveled nonstop to attend conferences and rotations.
• 🔄 Demonstrated persistence, initiative, and faith throughout the process.

💡 Top Takeaways

• Don’t just apply — advocate. Put yourself in rooms where decisions happen.
• Build relationships before interviews — let programs meet you beyond your paper.
• Faith, boldness, and consistency are critical to turning rejection into opportunity.
• Networking works. Especially when it’s purposeful, strategic, and rooted in authenticity.

🔗 Mentions & Resources

• 🎧 Missed Part 1? Listen to Lauretta’s unmatched journey and what she learned the first time.
• 📌 NMA (National Medical Association) Conference
• 📬 Reach out to Lauretta: 
  • Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nkiruka-lauretta-nwangene-md-3237b162/
  • X: @L_Nwangene

Have a burning question? A concern? A controversy or issue you want to hear covered? We got you, boo!

Leave a voice message at 202 743 1404. We will play your recording on the podcast and address your topic (if you don't want it played just say it in the voicemail, we will still cover your topic!). This podcast is for you and we want to include you on this journey! Hope to hear from you soon

In this episode:

• Dr. Elisha Peterson opens the season with an honest talk for students who didn’t match into anesthesiology
• Special guest Dr. Nkiruka Lauretta Nwangene shares her journey — from banking and nursing to medical school and matching anesthesia after her second try
• Encouragement: Not matching the first time does not define your future
• Preview of past episodes with Dr. Julissa Patten and Dr. Chuma Azoba 

Lauretta's Journey:

• Started career in banking in Nigeria before immigrating to Canada for nursing school
• Worked in bedside and management roles before pursuing medical school during COVID
• Discovered a passion for anesthesiology after her sister’s complicated childbirth experience
• First exposure to anesthesia through a clinical rotation in Chicago

Obstacles Faced:

• Lack of institutional support as an IMG (International Medical Graduate)
• Difficulty securing anesthesiology rotations and clinical experience
• No anesthesia interview invites during her first ERAS cycle
• Cold emailing program directors — faced rejection and even hostility
• Misunderstood the importance of networking over mass applications
• Used a non-optimized resume and personal statement for initial applications

Lessons Learned:

• Genuine enthusiasm during rotations leaves a lasting impression
• Persistence and showing up in person can open doors
• Need a clear strategy when reapplying
• Importance of professional guidance for CV, personal statement, and interviews

Preview for Part 2:

• Why networking — not more applications — is the key to matching
• How to make authentic connections as an introvert
• Practical game plan for the second application cycle

Action Items:

• Check out past Sevo Sistas episodes with physicians who matched on their second try
• Reflect on what gaps need closing before reapplying
• Tune in next week for Lauretta’s full game plan to succeed

Want to hear more from Dr. Lauretta?  Connect with her on Socials

X.com : https://x.com/L_Nwangene

Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/nkiruka-lauretta-nwangene-md-3237b162/

Have a burning question? A concern? A controversy or issue you want to hear covered? We got you, boo!

Leave a voice message at 202 743 1404. We will play your recording on the podcast and address your topic (if you don't want it played just say it in the voicemail, we will still cover your topic!). This podcast is for you and we want to include you on this journey! Hope to hear from you soon

American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) Conference. 

Key Takeaways:

• ASA Conference Highlights: Dr. Peterson will be attending and encourages others to come along, highlighting events to check out.
• You Can Be an Anesthesiologist Too: Despite challenges, many have overcome significant hardships to succeed, and you can too.
• Engagement Invitation: Dr. Peterson invites listeners to email, DM, or comment on LinkedIn with their thoughts and ideas on future podcast topics or pressing questions.
• Self-Care Reminder: A gentle reminder to prioritize self-care while navigating your career and life.

Resources Mentioned:

• ASA Conference 2024: Don’t miss out on the latest in anesthesiology—network, learn, and grow at the conference.
• Email: [email protected]
• LinkedIn and X: sevosistas Engage with us by commenting on what you’d like to hear next!

Listener Action Items:

• Rate & Subscribe: Don’t miss out on future episodes. New episodes drop every Monday!
• Share Your Questions: Send in any topics or questions you want addressed in future episodes via email or LinkedIn.

Quote from the Episode:
"It doesn't matter what obstacles are in your path—if you want to be an anesthesiologist, you can. Hardships don't define your future success." – Dr. Peterson

Next Episode Teaser:
Catch us next week for more insider tips on navigating the anesthesiology profession, staying resilient, and finding your path!

Have a burning question? A concern? A controversy or issue you want to hear covered? We got you, boo!

Leave a voice message at 202 743 1404. We will play your recording on the podcast and address your topic (if you don't want it played just say it in the voicemail, we will still cover your topic!). This podcast is for you and we want to include you on this journey! Hope to hear from you soon

Episode Overview: In this empowering episode of Sevo Sistas, Dr. Elisha Peterson wraps up the series with Dr. Alopi Patel, co-host of the "Hurt by the Female Pain Docs" podcast. Dr. Patel shares her journey in overcoming internal limitations, the importance of building a personal brand as a physician, and actionable steps to create a social media presence.

Key Takeaways:

1. Overcoming Mental Barriers: Dr. Patel discusses the common mental barriers that physicians face when considering a public presence, such as self-doubt, introversion, and the fear of not being good enough. She emphasizes that if you don’t put your knowledge out there, someone else will, possibly not as effectively or accurately.
2. Finding Your "Why": Dr. Patel highlights the importance of discovering your passion or "why." For her, the drive to reach more women with pelvic pain through social media became her motivation to step out of her comfort zone.
3. Starting Simple: No fancy equipment is needed to start. Dr. Patel shares her humble beginnings, from recording podcast episodes in closets with minimal equipment to learning how to edit and produce content on her own.
4. The Power of Consistency: While content creation can be overwhelming, consistency is key. Dr. Patel advises finding a balance that works for you, whether it's posting once a week or once a month.
5. Defining Your Brand: For physicians, branding is about finding your niche and confidently becoming an expert in that area. Dr. Patel encourages graduates to carve out a specialty within their field, aligning it with their passion and mission.
6. Social Media Strategy: Dr. Patel suggests choosing social media platforms based on your target audience. For patient education, platforms like Instagram and TikTok are more effective, whereas LinkedIn or Twitter might be better for reaching fellow physicians.
7. Empowerment and Representation: Dr. Patel speaks on the importance of representation in medicine and how seeing someone who looks like you in the field can inspire others to follow their path.

Actionable Steps:

• Reflect on your "why" and identify what you’re passionate about.
• Start simple with the tools you already have and don’t be afraid of making mistakes.
• Choose the right platform for your audience and be consistent with your content.
• Intentionally cultivate your brand by focusing on a niche you enjoy and excel in.
• Empower yourself and others by sharing your knowledge and experiences.

Connect with Dr. Alopi Patel:

• Podcast: The Hurt by the Female Pain Docs
• Instagram: @FemalePainDocs
• Twitter: @FemalePainDocs
• TikTok: @FemalePainDocs

Listen & Subscribe: Don’t miss out on the latest episodes of Sevo Sistas. New episodes drop every Monday. Subscribe Now and give us a rating if you loved this episode!

Empowered women, empower women. Together, let’s demystify and diversify the field of anesthesiology.

Have a burning question? A concern? A controversy or issue you want to hear covered? We got you, boo!

Leave a voice message at 202 743 1404. We will play your recording on the podcast and address your topic (if you don't want it played just say it in the voicemail, we will still cover your topic!). This podcast is for you and we want to include you on this journey! Hope to hear from you soon

In this empowering episode of Sevo Sistas , the host is joined by Dr. Alopi Patel, a trailblazing anesthesiologist and pain medicine specialist. Dr. Patel shares her inspiring journey into medicine, overcoming the challenges faced by women in the male-dominated fields of anesthesiology and pain medicine, and her experience building a strong social media presence to address pelvic pain and women's health issues.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Defining Expertise:
   • Understanding that expertise is relative term and begins even as a medical student or resident.
   • Encouragement for early-career professionals to share their knowledge and be part of the solution.
2. Dr. Patel’s Journey:
   • Inspired by her grandfather and a friend's father, Dr. Patel shares how she became interested in medicine and anesthesiology.
   • The unique challenges of being a woman in a field where only a third of anesthesiologists are women, and how that led her to specialize in pain medicine.
3. Challenges in Pain Medicine:
   • The male dominance in pain medicine, with only 18% of pain physicians being women.
   • The importance of addressing and treating pelvic pain, which is often misunderstood and stigmatized.
   • The unexpected discovery of a significant number of male pelvic pain patients.
4. Building a Social Media Presence:
   • The creation of the "Female Pain Docs" platform on TikTok and Instagram to provide accurate medical information and advocacy.
   • Navigating the challenges of maintaining a professional presence on social media while working for an academic institution.
   • Practical tips on staying within institutional guidelines and the importance of transparency and caution when using social media as a healthcare professional.
5. Navigating Social Media as a Physician:
   • Understanding the "Green, Yellow, Red" approach to posting content.
   • The importance of professionalism, considering the long-term impact of online content

Takeaways:

• Medical professionals at any stage of their career can be experts and should feel empowered to share their knowledge and address the issues they observe.
• Social media can be a powerful tool for educating the public, addressing misinformation, and advocating for underrepresented areas in medicine, but it must be used thoughtfully and within professional guidelines.

Links & Resources:

• Follow Dr. Alopi Patel on Twitter: @alopipatelmd
• Learn more about Women Innovators in Pain Management: https://www.wipmsoc.org/
• Check out the Female Pain Docs:  https://thefemalepaindocs.com/                     Podcast:  https://thefemalepaindocs.com/podcast-2/                                            Tiktok and Instagram:  thefemalepaindocs

Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. 

Tune in next time for part two, where we continue our conversation with Dr. Patel, diving deeper into her strategies for managing work-life balance and her future goals in anesthesiology and pain medicine.

Have a burning question? A concern? A controversy or issue you want to hear covered? We got you, boo!

Leave a voice message at 202 743 1404. We will play your recording on the podcast and address your topic (if you don't want it played just say it in the voicemail, we will still cover your topic!). This podcast is for you and we want to include you on this journey! Hope to hear from you soon

Welcome back to Sevo Sistas, the podcast where we demystify and diversify the field of anesthesiology, all within the duration of an anesthesia break. In this week's episode, we conclude our insightful interview with Dr. Alanna Gordon, a Black woman DO who recently matched at the University of Connecticut (UConn) for her anesthesiology residency. Dr. Gordon shares valuable advice that applies not only to DOs but to anyone considering a career in anesthesiology.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Choosing Residency Programs:
   • Dr. Gordon's strategic approach to selecting anesthesiology residency programs.
   • Importance of networking at events like AMEC hosted by UConn.
   • Factors such as geographic preference, program diversity, and program culture.
2. Application Strategy:
   • How Dr. Gordon applied to 42 programs, utilizing the new signaling system with 15 signals (5 gold and 10 silver).
   • Insights on evaluating program friendliness toward DOs and the significance of diversity.
3. Signaling in Residency Applications:
   • Explanation of the signaling system and its strategic use.
   • The impact of signaling on program selection and interview invitations.
   • The balance between expressing interest and managing application costs.
4. Interview Process:
   • Dr. Gordon's experience with 11 interview invitations and her approach to preparing for them.
   • Special experiences during her UConn interview, including the supportive environment and mentorship.
5. Navigating the Match Process:
   • The importance of ranking programs and the emotional journey of Match Day.
   • Dr. Gordon's experience with the SOAP (Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program) and securing a transitional year at Stony Brook Southampton.
6. Final Thoughts:
   • The importance of asking questions and taking initiative in the residency application process.
   • Encouragement for medical students to network, attend open houses, and make personal connections.

Notable Quotes:

• "You have to be very strategic in how you're applying, especially now with the signaling that anesthesiology has decided on." – Dr. Alanna Gordon
• "Make sure you're at every AMEC and you're networking with everyone, because that's really what's going to get you through the door." – Dr. Alanna Gordon
• "You can't be afraid to put yourself out there... The worst thing that can happen is someone can tell you no, and you go on to the next experience." – Dr. Alanna Gordon

Resources Mentioned:

• AMEC (Annual Medical Education Conference) hosted by the Student National Medical Association (SNMA)
• Visiting Externship for Students Underrepresented in Medicine (VESUM) Program at UConn

Connect with Us:

• Email: [email protected]
• LinkedIn:  sevo sistas
• Twitter: @sevosistas

Support the Show:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform and sharing it with friends and colleagues. Your support helps us continue to bring you valuable insights and stories from the field of anesthesiology.

Have a burning question? A concern? A controversy or issue you want to hear covered? We got you, boo!

Leave a voice message at 202 743 1404. We will play your recording on the podcast and address your topic (if you don't want it played just say it in the voicemail, we will still cover your topic!). This podcast is for you and we want to include you on this journey! Hope to hear from you soon

Welcome back to Sevo Sistas, the podcast dedicated to demystifying and diversifying the field of anesthesiology, all within the duration of an anesthesia break. This week, Dr. Peterson will delve into the challenges and triumphs of matching into an anesthesiology residency as a DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine). Our special guest, Dr. Alanna Gordon, shares her inspiring journey from her initial interest in medicine to successfully matching into the University of Connecticut's anesthesiology residency program.

Key Points Discussed:

• Dr. Alanna Gordon’s Background and Motivation 
  • Early interest in medicine inspired by her grandmother's experience with breast cancer.
  • Educational journey: University of Delaware, taking time off to work as a scribe, and attending West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine.
  • Challenges faced as a Black woman in medicine and the importance of addressing racial disparities.
• Choosing the DO Path
  • Decision-making process in applying to DO schools over MD programs.
  • Misconceptions about DO education and its focus on the musculoskeletal system.
  • Explanation of the holistic approach in DO training and its benefits.
• Standardized Exams and Challenges
  • Preparing for both the COMLEX and USMLE exams as a DO.
  • Strategies for balancing and succeeding in both sets of exams.
  • Importance of using resources like UWorld, First Aid, and Amboss for studying.
• Finding Passion in Anesthesiology 
  • Initial interest in orthopedic surgery and the pivotal rotation in anesthesiology during third year.
  • Realizing the holistic and impactful role of an anesthesiologist in patient care.
  • Support and mentorship challenges in a DO program and the need for self-motivation.
• Advice for Aspiring Anesthesiologists 
  • Tips for DO students on navigating the path to anesthesiology.
  • Importance of early planning and seeking out rotations and experiences in desired specialties.

Conclusion: Join us next week as we continue our conversation with Dr. Alanna Gordon, discussing more strategies and insights for successfully matching into anesthesiology as a DO.

Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and subscribe to Sevo Sisters so you don't miss out on future episodes. New episodes drop every Monday to help you start your week with inspiration and valuable insights. Share your thoughts and topic suggestions in the comments!

Contact and Follow:

• Alanna Gordon, DO @AlannaGordon_
• Twitter: @sevosistas
• Linkedin: Sevo Sistas
• Email: [email protected]

Have a burning question? A concern? A controversy or issue you want to hear covered? We got you, boo!

Leave a voice message at 202 743 1404. We will play your recording on the podcast and address your topic (if you don't want it played just say it in the voicemail, we will still cover your topic!). This podcast is for you and we want to include you on this journey! Hope to hear from you soon

In this compelling follow-up episode of Sevo Sistas, we continue our conversation with Dr. Julisha Patten. Dr. Patten shares her inspiring journey of overcoming significant academic challenges to achieve her dream of becoming an anesthesiologist. From failing step exams to navigating the match process, Dr. Patten's story is a testament to resilience and determination. Tune in to hear her practical advice on maintaining confidence, seeking mentorship, and the power of perseverance.

• Overcoming Step Exam Challenges:
  • Dr. Patten discusses her initial success with Step 1 and her unexpected failure on Step 2.
  • The critical changes she made in her study approach for the second attempt.
  • Importance of critical thinking and adapting study techniques to different exam formats.
• Mentorship and Tutoring:
  • How hiring a tutor helped Dr. Patten succeed on her second attempt at Step 2.
  • The role of mentorship in her journey and advice for others facing similar challenges.
• Navigating the Match Process:
  • Dr. Patten's experience of not matching initially and the emotional toll it took.
  • The SOAP (Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program) process and her eventual job offer.
  • The importance of perseverance and not giving up on her goal of becoming an anesthesiologist.
• Transitioning to Residency:
  • The transitional year at LewisGale and how she treated it as a one-year interview.
  • Dr. Patten's proactive approach to securing an anesthesia rotation and gaining valuable experience.
  • Receiving a surprise interview and acceptance from Yale, and the significance of this achievement.
• Advice for Aspiring Anesthesiologists:
  • Dr. Patten's encouragement to those who face academic setbacks.
  • The importance of believing in oneself and not letting a single test define your capabilities.
  • Practical tips on maintaining confidence and seeking support from mentors and peers.
• Closing Thoughts:
  • Dr. Patten's final words of inspiration for listeners pursuing their dreams in the medical field..

Call to Action: Don't miss this episode filled with resilience and practical advice for overcoming obstacles in the medical field. Subscribe to Sevo Sistas on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to support the show! Share this episode with friends and colleagues who might benefit from Dr. Patten's inspiring journey.

Follow Dr. Julisha Patten @Julisha_Patten on Twitter

Have a burning question? A concern? A controversy or issue you want to hear covered? We got you, boo!

Leave a voice message at 202 743 1404. We will play your recording on the podcast and address your topic (if you don't want it played just say it in the voicemail, we will still cover your topic!). This podcast is for you and we want to include you on this journey! Hope to hear from you soon

In this inspiring episode of Sevo Sistas, we delve into the extraordinary journey of Dr. Julisha Patten, who defied numerous challenges on her path to becoming an anesthesiology resident at Yale. Dr. Patten shares her experiences of taking the MCAT twice, facing setbacks, and ultimately triumphing through resilience and determination.

Highlights of the Episode:

• Introduction to Dr. Julisha Patten:
  • Dr. Patten's early life in North Augusta and her initial struggles with financing education.
  • Her decision to join the military to pursue her education and the challenges she faced while balancing military duties with academic aspirations.
• Military Experience and Education:
  • Insights into Dr. Patten's time in the military, her role in medical logistics, and how it sparked her interest in medicine.
  • The pivotal conversation with a military pediatrician that shifted her focus from nursing to becoming a physician.
• Academic Journey and Military Challenges:
  • Transitioning from military service to full-time student life at Bowie State University.
  • Overcoming the challenge of classes only being offered during the day, leading to her decision to leave the military.
  • Facing and overcoming administrative hurdles to secure an honorable discharge and retain her benefits.
• Master's Program and Medical School:
  • How a unique master's program at the University of South Florida (USF) helped Dr. Patten prepare for and succeed in the MCAT.
  • The experience of taking classes alongside first-year medical students and the benefits of this intensive program.
• Mentorship and Support Systems:
  • The crucial role mentors played in guiding Dr. Patten throughout her journey, from her time at Bowie State to her acceptance into Howard Medical School.
  • Dr. Patton's reflections on the supportive community at Howard and the impact of the Drapes Down program in solidifying her interest in anesthesiology.
• Advice and Encouragement:
  • Dr. Patten’s message to aspiring anesthesiologists who face self-doubt and anxiety about their qualifications.
  • Encouragement to leverage mentorship, remain persistent, and keep striving despite setbacks.

Join us for part one of this two-part series as Dr. Patten’s story unfolds, providing invaluable insights and motivation for anyone facing challenges on their professional journey. Don't miss the next episode, where we discuss her test-taking strategies, experiences with matching into residency, and how she navigated the ups and downs to secure her place at Yale.

Connect:

• Twitter @sevosistas and @Julisha_Patten
• Facebook @sevosistas

About Sevo Sistas: Sevo Sistas is your go-to podcast for demystifying and diversifying the field of anesthesiology, offering insights and stories from inspiring individuals within the duration of an anesthesia break. Hosted by Dr. Peterson, we aim to support and uplift our listeners through engaging and informative content.

Have a burning question? A concern? A controversy or issue you want to hear covered? We got you, boo!

Leave a voice message at 202 743 1404. We will play your recording on the podcast and address your topic (if you don't want it played just say it in the voicemail, we will still cover your topic!). This podcast is for you and we want to include you on this journey! Hope to hear from you soon

Finding mentors, creating that relationship can be intimidating

but it does not have to be. 

Listen for how you can create your dream mentoring relationships.

Have a burning question? A concern? A controversy or issue you want to hear covered? We got you, boo!

Leave a voice message at 202 743 1404. We will play your recording on the podcast and address your topic (if you don't want it played just say it in the voicemail, we will still cover your topic!). This podcast is for you and we want to include you on this journey! Hope to hear from you soon