The IMG Roadmap Podcast

By Dr. Nina LumBusiness Careers

The IMG Roadmap Podcast episodes

June 05, 202171. IMGRoadmap Series #79 Dr. Maureen Karina (Psychiatry)
What can non-traditional IMGs do to turn the aspects that make their journey unique into their biggest assets when trying to match into residency? Newly matched Psychiatry resident Dr. Maureen Karina is here to answer your burning questions and inspire you to persist despite the odds you face!
Dr. Karina enrolled into the American University of Antigua, College of Medicine in 2013, took a break in 2014 due to financial difficulties, resumed in 2015 and graduated in 2020. Her journey deviated significantly from what is considered the norm, not only due to her gap, but also because she became a mother in her last year of medical school. Eventually, she matched into a program in California, despite the stigma that IMGs seem to face within that state. At no point did she allow the naysayers to influence her actions and she did whatever was necessary to achieve the position of her dreams. Throughout all the challenges she faced along her path, Dr. Karina never gave up, and her story is truly one of determination and perseverance. As such, she gives the following advice to non-traditional IMGs:
Own your story - At first, Dr. Karina was concerned that revealing that she had a family of her own would negatively influence her chances of matching, since it may imply that she would be less "dedicated" than single applicants. However, she states that this fact only served to humanize her in the eyes of the program coordinators. Be transparent into what makes you, you, and others will see your vision!

Realize that challenges are a part of life - Life happens to a lot of us. Program coordinators want to see that despite whatever was thrown at you, you had the ability to rise and be stronger as a result.

Rejection is a part of life - Throughout life you will not always be accepted, but that doesn't mean that you should never allow yourself to step out of your comfort zone, actively network, and build connections with the relevant people in your field. Success requires discomfort!
And to inspire us all, Dr. Karina left the following inspirational nuggets:
Do your best to stand out. Especially when applying its important to show how you are different than the rest.

Delay is not denial. Your journey may take longer, but it doesn't mean that your destination is not within reach.

When one door is shut in your face, climb through the window! Sometimes, you just need to take initiative and create the opportunities that you deserve.

Never let life's difficulties dull your passion and hope.
You can reach out to Dr. Karina via Instagram @moekagz and at [email protected].
Listen to the full episode at:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/71-imgroadmap-series-79-dr-maureen-karina-psychiatry/id1490731292?i=1000524323746
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2i9cviqzDyZpQ1rBHRpuan
Google podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mOGMzY2EwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz/episode/YjgyYWNkNmEtNmRlOC00NjllLTg2MGEtMzcxM2JmY2FmZmNl?sa=X&ved=0CA0QkfYCahcKEwjo25nlp7TxAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAQ
48 min
May 29, 202170. IMGRoadmap Series #78 Dr. Ariela Baur (Internal Medicine)
Has self-doubt ever caused you to procrastinate when trying to achieve your dream? In this episode, Internal Medicine Resident Dr. Ariela Baur shares her inspiring story of ambition, resilience and discipline as she silenced her self-doubt in order to attain success.
German-born Dr. Baur attended medical school at Semmelweis University in Budapest, Hungary & Hamburg, Germany. After graduating in 2016, she worked for 3 years in cardiology in Germany, before she decided to take the leap and pursue residency in the United States. Though she knew she could have served as a doctor in Germany, she realized that it was not what she wanted for herself, and that she had to make a change. She knew that the transition would not be easy, but she was willing to do whatever it took to reach her goal.
One of the most outstanding points to note about Dr. Baur's journey is that she passed USMLE Steps 1, 2 and 3 all within 2 years. When she was asked how she was able to carry this out, she highlighted the following:
She engaged in a six week Kaplan course which helped her to prepare for Step 1 USMLE, especially with regard to adjusting to the American exam style.

She found a group of supportive colleagues with whom she could study and share experiences.

She was disciplined and driven and used her time wisely when preparing for the exam.

Though it was difficult, despite the rescheduling of the USMLE exams due to COVID, and other challenges, she persisted.
After having taken the exams, Dr. Baur outlined the following about her application cycle:
When the results came in, her step 1 score was 211, and though this disappointed her, she changed her strategy and went full force into preparing for steps 2 and 3, which she crushed! To improve her Step 2 scores, she focused more on practice questions, which yielded success.

During the gaps between exams, Dr. Baur did rotations with the private practice of various physicians in order to build her US clinical experience and enhance her application.

Though she applied to over 100 programs in Internal Medicine and Emergency Medicine, she only landed 2 interviews. She also did not let that discourage her, and decided to let her personality and dedication shine through during the interviews. After all, you only need one successful interview!
Dr. Baur hopes to inspire IMGs to:
Study hard, but take breaks as needed. Do not allow vigorous and constant studying to compromise your mental health.

Follow a strict schedule but reward yourself accordingly. The sacrifice is worth it!
You can reach out to Dr. Baur to find out more about her story and to seek advice via her instagram @arielii_b
Listen to the full episode using the links below:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/70-imgroadmap-series-78-dr-ariela-baur-internal-medicine/id1490731292?i=1000523480099
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6wDrhmPwpa0TdgvvIfex2M
Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mOGMzY2EwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz/episode/Njk3YzMwMWEtNzE2NS00ZWFiLTgxMmQtNzBjMWNkMDM1ODZj?sa=X&ved=0CAUQkfYCahcKEwjAjPnIhPrwAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAQ
39 min
May 22, 202169. IMGRoadmap Series #77 Dr. Nina Snowden (Obstetrics and Gynecology)
In our world of today, many marginalized communities face systemic injustices when seeking medical care, which leads to disproportionate rates of chronic illness and even death. OBGYN resident Dr. Nina Snowden, after having felt the brunt of these disparities herself, has dedicated her life to making a difference no matter how small. Keep listening to find out more about this IMG's story of determination and resilience.
As a US IMG, Dr. Snowden completed her undergraduate and master's degrees in the US and even served as a registered dietician. After having faced a tragedy, however, Dr. Snowden felt inspired to start medical school at a later age than most students. It is this resolve that guided her through her medical education as she moved step by step to fulfill her calling to be a physician. She attended the St. George's University in Grenada and was able to maintain good grades throughout her time there.
When asked to share the highlights of her journey to the match, Dr. Snowden dropped the following gems of advice:
Make good use of your resources - Dr. Snowden recommends the IMG Roadmap course as an excellent guide to help IMGs land the residency they've been dreaming of.

Networking is key! Dr. Snowden took it upon herself to show initiative and reach out to as many people within her intended field. She joined organizations, attended conferences and introduced herself to program coordinators in order to improve her chances of matching.

Ignore the naysayers - Though Dr. Snowden admits to not having had the most stellar scores on USMLE, she did not let the negative opinions of others prevent her from applying to the specialties that she was interested in. Ultimately, the only person who needs to believe in you, is you!

Leverage your application if your scores are not within your desired bracket - Dr. Snowden ensured that she had a back up plan and so, attained letters of recommendation from each one of her core rotations in case she had to participate in the The Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP). She boosted all the other areas of her application so that her scores were just one component of many.
Overall, despite a rough beginning, Dr. Snowden was determined not to become a statistic, and despite being an underdog, she was determined to achieve all of her goals. As such, she constantly reminded herself to: Strive to do better in all things. Once you do your best, everything else will fall in line.
Feeling inspired? You can reach out to Dr. Snowden to find out more about her phenomenal story via her Instagram @drnina_obgyn and her email: [email protected]
Listen to the full episode using the links below:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/69-imgroadmap-series-77-dr-nina-snowden-obstetrics/id1490731292?i=1000522741273
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5aP5rRjsmZM2aXkx63ymag
Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mOGMzY2EwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz/episode/N2QzYjEyNjEtY2E1Yy00MGE5LTg3NjAtYWY4NzhhNzU3M2M5?sa=X&ved=0CAUQkfYCahcKEwiwv4-3nejwAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAQ
42 min
May 15, 202168. IMGRoadmap Series #76 Dr. Foluwakemi Olufehinti (Family Medicine)
Have your challenges and bad experiences ever made you feel like giving up? Dr. Foluwakemi Olufehinti's story will give you all of the inspiration you need to persist in the face of adversity until you achieve your goals!
Nigerian-born Non-US IMG Dr. Olufehinti completed her medical education at Ross University, which was then situated on the Caribbean island of Dominica. As a student, she had to adjust to a different learning and testing style, but eventually, she gained success despite the various difficulties she faced.
When it comes to the match, Dr. Olufehinti's story is far from traditional. She essentially applied on three occasions, twice in the traditional match process and once through the the Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP).
On her first try for the 2019 match period, though she received 7 interviews, she did not match. She decided to try again through SOAP, which was also unsuccessful. Dr. Olufehinti did not let these setbacks define her and she used this as an opportunity to consult with resources such as the IMG Roadmap Course and to seek feedback from her interviewers in order to highlight areas needing improvement. With this in mind, she applied for the 2021 match period and received 20 interviews this time around!
In December of 2020, however, she received an offer from one of the programs she had applied to prior to the 2021 cycle and decided to accept it.
As a result of her very unique journey to the match, Dr. Olufehinti is a wealth of insight and advice. Here are a few of the topics she touches on in during this interview:
The match: After not having matched the first two times, Dr. Olufehinti attributes her success thereafter to an increase in confidence and to the understanding that while she was being interviewed, she was also interviewing the program coordinators. The moment she saw herself as a potential asset to the program, the coordinators began to share the same view.

Preparing for the USMLE: Dr. Olufehinti advises IMGs to study in groups if this style works for you, and to use plenty of practice questions from reputable sources. While your grades do not define you, program coordinators just want to see that you are diligent and capable of improvement.

Persistence is key: Though there were times where it seemed like all the odds were stacked against her, Dr. Olufehinti was able to stop, take stock, and improve until she was able to achieve her goals.
You can reach out to Dr. Olufehinti via her Instagram @fomoshgreen
Watch the full episode using the links below:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-img-roadmap/id1490731292
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/45NNJ7ewtqynqyssbwm1xz
Google Podcasts:https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mOGMzY2EwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Overcast: https://overcast.fm/itunes1490731292/the-img-roadmap-podcast
RadioPublic: https://radiopublic.com/the-img-roadmap-GE0MMg
50 min
May 08, 202167. IMGRoadmap Series #75 Dr. Ololade Akinfemiwa (Emergency Medicine)
Is emergency medicine your passion but you are scared that as an IMG your chances of matching are significantly lower?
In our ever-changing world, outstanding IMGs like Dr. Ololade Akinfemiwa keep breaking the barriers, challenging the status quo and living their dreams as physicians in the United States. Keep listening to find out more about this Emergency Medicine resident's inspiring journey!

Nigerian-Canadian Dr. Akinfemiwa was never one to let life's challenges define her and this ambitious attitude drove her throughout medical school at the St. George's University in Grenada, despite this not having been her original plan. She worked hard during medical school and was able to perform exceptionally well until her graduation in 2021.
With regard to her specialty, Dr. Akinfemiwa chose emergency medicine after a particular rotation which cemented her interest in the field.
When asked about her journey to the match and the various difficulties she faced, Dr. Akinfemiwa highlighted the following:
Throughout her education at St. George's university, she studied in the UK, Grenada and the US. The constant moving, while difficult, was made more bearable by having a strong support system to surround her.

The unique experience of going through residency application and interviews completely online offered certain advantages in the realms of networking and communication, which are both essential during this process.

Scores are not the end all, be all and they do not define you. Dr. Akinfemiwa ensured to build her application to be as holistic as possible through extra curricular activities and relevant clinical experience.

Detailed research, diligence and dedication are important especially when attempting to specialize in Emergency Medicine, due to the characteristic requirements of this field such as the standardized letter of evaluation (SLOE).

When preparing for virtual interviews, Dr. Akinfemiwa advises to practice with friends and family, record and critique yourself in order to identify areas needing improvement, and to ensure that you have a stable internet connection.
Finally, Dr. Akinfemiwa leaves us with these inspirational tidbits:
Always work as hard as possible. Once you've done the best that you can, there is no need to worry.

Mindset plays a huge rule in a person's success. Everything that you are able to achieve begins with your thoughts.

Persistence in the face of challenges builds resilience and success.
You can reach out to Dr. Akinfemiwa via her Instagram @lboogiiee and her Twitter @lolakinfem
Watch the full episode using the links below:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-img-roadmap/id1490731292
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/45NNJ7ewtqynqyssbwm1xz
Google Podcasts:https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mOGMzY2EwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Overcast: https://overcast.fm/itunes1490731292/the-img-roadmap-podcast
RadioPublic: https://radiopublic.com/the-img-roadmap-GE0MMg
35 min
May 01, 202166. IMGRoadmap Series #74 Dr. Jessica Udeogu, (Family Medicine).
Did you attend a Caribbean Medical school and you are interested in matching into a residency in Family Medicine in the US? Keep listening to find out how US-IMG Dr. Jessica Udeogu navigated this process and came out successful despite the COVID-19 pandemic!
Dr. Jessica Udeogu was born in Texas, but went to St. James School of Medicine in the Caribbean Island of St. Vincent. Though she had always wanted to be a physician, due to life's constraints she first worked for ten years in the medical field before graduating with her medical degree in January of 2021, with her residency beginning this summer. Her story was truly one of bravery and overcoming various obstacles in the path toward her dream. One of these challenges was indeedCOVID-19 which caused her to have to participate in the first-ever virtual residency interview process.
In light of this, here are a few points that IMGs can note and learn from Dr. Jessica's journey:
Routine is key: Dr. Jessica noted the importance of having a schedule and sticking to it when preparing for exams such as the USMLE which led to her scoring 236 and 235 on her step 1 and 2 exams respectively, all while managing a full time job and pursuing a master's degree.

Understand the importance of ECFMG certification: It's important to keep in the loop with the ECFMG organization so that you're not caught off-guard by anything. During her interview process, she was constantly asked about her ECFMG certification status. She was able to stay on top of things by being organized and prompt in her preparation.

Stratify your applications according to relevant criteria: She was able to meticulously select the 95 programs that she would apply to based on her passions and eventually landed six interviews, all at institutions she had ranked.

Optimize your virtual interviews: Dr. Jessica maximized her resources and ensured that her internet connection was reliable, that her lighting and background were optimal and paid attention to the requirements of each of the interviewing programs.
But how was Dr. Jessica able to surpass various difficulties, financial and otherwise, to land her residency position? She states that it's because she lives by the following mantras:
Have a growth mindset - be open and receptive to the positive things that this world has to offer.

Slow and steady wins the race - your journey is yours and takes place within your specific timeline. Never compare yourself to others!
You can contact Dr. Jessica via her Facebook @Jessica Udeogu and her Twitter @jessudeogu
Watch the full episode using the links below:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-img-roadmap/id1490731292
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/45NNJ7ewtqynqyssbwm1xz
Google Podcasts:https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mOGMzY2EwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Overcast: https://overcast.fm/itunes1490731292/the-img-roadmap-podcast
RadioPublic: https://radiopublic.com/the-img-roadmap-GE0MMg
38 min
April 24, 202165. IMGRoadmap Series #73 Dr. Ranae Hedman, (Obstetrics and Gynecology).
Is the field of obstetrics and gynecology too competitive for IMGs? Absolutely not! Dr. Ranae Hedman proves that with the right approach towards your residency application, and life in general, nothing is off limits. Keep listening to find out more about her fascinating story especially when it comes to preliminary vs categorical residency positions!
A first generation American born to Jamaican immigrant parents, Dr. Hedman has always known that she wanted to be the first physician in her family and was willing to do whatever it takes to fulfill her calling. Slated to graduate from the St. George's Medical University in Grenada in May of 2021, Dr. Hedman has already secured her position as an incoming categorical obstetrics and gynecology intern in the U.S.
Her journey was not an easy one, but Dr. Hedman was able to remain positive and hopeful throughout, citing her passion and love for her target field as her main driving force.
With regard to preparing a competitive residency application packet even during the pandemic, Dr. Hedman advises IMGs to:
Identify your perceivable weaknesses but do not be limited by them - take note of what the gap between where you are and where you want to be constitutes. Dr. Hedman herself admits to having exhausted all of her options and avenues to pursue her dreams.

Build your resume with relevant clinical experience and make yourself known in your field of interest. Dr. Hedman recommends reaching out to as many clinical coordinators as possible and to constantly be on the lookout for helpful opportunities.

When engaging in elective clinical rotations, do not just do your job, but do it eagerly and passionately. This will show those in charge how dedicated you are, which may result in excellent letters of recommendation, or even opportunities to complete residency at those institutions.

In every step of the way, think ahead and do things as far in advance as possible.
Some inspirational tidbits that Dr. Hedman left with us include:
Nobody knows your story better than you do - do not let the fears and worries of others prevent you from striving toward what you deserve.

Do not let extenuating circumstances discourage you - there are others who have done it under even worse conditions and so can you!

You don't have to do it alone - develop a healthy support system of like-minded individuals who wish you well, to help you along your way.

Be guided by your "why" - always remind yourself of the root of your passion so that you can go forward to serve your future patients to the best of your abilities.
You can contact Dr. Hedman via her Instagram @Dr_heyitsnae
Watch the full episode using the links below:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-img-roadmap/id1490731292
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/45NNJ7ewtqynqyssbwm1xz
Google Podcasts:https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mOGMzY2EwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Overcast: https://overcast.fm/itunes1490731292/the-img-roadmap-podcast
RadioPublic: https://radiopublic.com/the-img-roadmap-GE0MMg
36 min
April 17, 202164. IMG Roadmap Series #72 Dr. Darshana Vijaywargiya (Neurology)
Are you interested in matching into Neurology but you're not sure what you should do to optimize your journey? Keep listening to find out about Dr. Darshana Vijaywargiya who defied the odds and landed a Neurology residency position at her first choice of program at SUNY Upstate Medical center!
Indian born Dr. Darshana graduated from medical school in India in 2018, and while she had never intended to practice in the US, she decided to do so in 2019.
A wealth of wisdom and insight, Dr. Darshana shared with us her experience and advice regarding various parts of her medical journey.
Just a few of her stellar tips for IMGs are as follows:

USMLE Preparation:
Dr. Darshana remarks that one of the most important parts of USMLE prep is getting an early start, being diligent while learning and studying and getting used to the exam question style. While assessment methods vary from country to country, don't be too hard on yourself, it gets easier with practice. Also, write the exam as soon as possible so that the information is still fresh in your mind! While it is important to strive for the highest grades possible in all parts of the USMLE exams, scores are just one part of the application. To be a competitive applicant, you must focus on all the other parts equally.

Neurology Residency Application:
While Dr. Darshana admits that scores do play a role in your chance of success getting into this field, she also stresses on the importance of clinical experience and research as integral components of an attractive application. Persistence and learning how to accept negative answers or even spinning these rejections to your advantage is key. Dr. Darshana herself sent hundreds of emails to US clinical program coordinators across the country which landed her countless valuable opportunities both virtual and in person.

Successful interviews:
Dr. Darshana advises IMGs to be level-headed, calm and confident even in the face of perceived mistakes. Being approachable, sincere and personable is what will set you apart!

You can reach Dr. Darshana via:
Facebook @A Monkey Brain's Journey

Twitter @Darshanavjw3

Instagram @the.address.of.hope

Her blog theaddressofhope.wordpress.com

Listen to the full episode using the links below:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-img-roadmap/id1490731292
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/45NNJ7ewtqynqyssbwm1xz
Google Podcasts:https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mOGMzY2EwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Overcast: https://overcast.fm/itunes1490731292/the-img-roadmap-podcast
RadioPublic: https://radiopublic.com/the-img-roadmap-GE0MMg
43 min
April 17, 2021 1. Introducing Dr. Lum's First Podcast: The IMG Roadmap
What is the IMG Roadmap? You can find your answer here ...
1 min
April 10, 202163. IMG Roadmap Series #71 Dr. Lara Zekar (Emergency Medicine).
How are IMGs navigating through the residency application process during COVID-19? Despite the constraints that this global phenomenon has presented, is there a possibility for you to use it to your advantage? Slated to start her Emergency Medicine Residency in June of 2021 at the University of California Davis Medical Center, Slovenian doctor Lara Zekar's success is proof of her mantra, "Impossible is not a fact - it's a dare."
From the beginning of her medical journey and especially at the point where she decided she wanted to become a US Resident in Emergency Medicine, Dr. Zekar has moved with intention, determination and dedication toward her goal. She completed her medical degree at the University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine in 2018 and from there spent her time making pointed decisions which ultimately made her a very competitive candidate when applying for US residency.

When asked to share her residency application story, Dr, Zekar notes that it indeed was a marathon and not a sprint. Here are a few of the highlights of her journey:
She figured out that she was passionate about Emergency Medicine during one of her unofficial clinical rotations in the US.

She started researching the steps that would be necessary to achieve this aspiration.

Since she was one of the few Slovenians to have ever gone through this process, she faced significant obstacles, however, she used her resources to her advantage to combat them.

During her 4th and 5th year of medical school, she studied for 9 months on and off for the USMLE exams for which she ended up scoring 258 and 269 for step one and step 2 respectively.

She participated in a medical humanitarian mission to Kenya and ensured that even when she was not at school or at the hospital, she was staying active in the medical field through volunteering and externships.

She decided to do unofficial rotations in Cardiology, Cardiothoracic Surgery and Emergency Medicine in order to attain Standardized Letters of Evaluation (SLOEs) which are a key requirement for Emergency Medicine residency applicants.

She meticulously compiled a list of over 90 programs to which she would apply and land a whopping 6 interviews.
As such, Dr. Lara encourages IMGs to:
Be the most competitive candidate you can be, focus on getting the highest scores but still not neglecting the other parts of your holistic application.

Be detailed, intentional and meticulous.

Do not let the fact that it feels like all the odds are stacked against you stop you from trying to defeat the impossible.
You can reach out to Dr. Lara via her email: [email protected] and her twitter @LaraZe6
Listen to the full episode using the links below:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-img-roadmap/id1490731292
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/45NNJ7ewtqynqyssbwm1xz
Google Podcasts:https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mOGMzY2EwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Overcast: https://overcast.fm/itunes1490731292/the-img-roadmap-podcast
RadioPublic: https://radiopublic.com/the-img-roadmap-GE0MMg
33 min

About The IMG Roadmap Podcast

From the publisher's feed

The IMG Roadmap is the only podcast dedicated to guiding International Medical Graduates (IMGs) with success blueprints for this unique pathway.

Share The IMG Roadmap Podcast

Sign up to save your podcasts

The IMG Roadmap Podcast

The IMG Roadmap Podcast episodes

About The IMG Roadmap Podcast