The IMG Roadmap Podcast

Hosted by Dr. Nina Lum

Business

Website RSS feed

Episodes

157

Latest episode

Jul 2026

Language

About the show

The IMG Roadmap is the only podcast dedicated to guiding International Medical Graduates (IMGs) with success blueprints for this unique pathway. This podcast offers practical tools and equips IMGs with applicable strategies to achieve their “US doctor goals”. I do so by bringing information from successful physicians with first hand experience to students who are still in the process of becoming resident physicians.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

July 26, 202636 min

160. Navigating J-1, H-1B & Conrad 30: Immigration Advice for IMG Physicians with Mr. Kaushik Ranchod

Quick pause! Want to stay inspired with content tailored specifically to IMG’s looking to create their medical success story? Sign up for the ⁠⁠ IMG Roadmap Newsletter ⁠⁠ so you never miss a beat! ***** Immigration policies are changing rapidly—and for International Medical Graduates, it's creating uncertainty around residency, fellowships, J-1 waivers, H-1B visas, and long-term plans in the United States. In this episode of the IMG Roadmap Podcast , we sit down with Mr. Kaushik Ranchod , founder and CEO of Ranchod Law Group, who has spent more than 25 years helping physicians navigate U.S. immigration law. Together, they separate fact from fiction surrounding recent immigration policy changes, explain what the proposed H-1B changes actually mean, discuss the future of the J-1 waiver program, and share practical guidance for physicians planning their transition from residency to attending practice. Whether you're an IMG preparing for residency, currently training on a J-1 visa, or planning your next career move, this episode will help you better understand your options and prepare for the road ahead. In This Episode You'll Learn: What the proposed H-1B changes actually mean for physicians Who is—and isn't—affected by the proposed $100,000 H-1B fee Why J-1 visas remain a strong pathway for many IMG physicians How the Conrad 30 waiver works Alternative J-1 waiver options, including HHS, VA, and hardship waivers The latest changes involving I-94 renewals The difference between immigrant and non-immigrant visas Green card considerations under current immigration policies When physicians should begin planning for their waiver applications Common mistakes physicians make by waiting too long to prepare. Key Takeaways Don't Panic Over Headlines While immigration policies continue to evolve, much of the media coverage lacks important context. Many physicians already inside the U.S. can continue their planned immigration pathway with careful preparation. Planning Early Matters Whether pursuing a Conrad 30 waiver or another immigration pathway, starting the process months—or even years—ahead can dramatically reduce stress and improve outcomes. Know Your Options The Conrad 30 isn't the only J-1 waiver available. Depending on your circumstances, hardship waivers, HHS waivers, VA waivers, or employment-based pathways may be appropriate. Every Case Is Different Immigration strategy depends on your visa history, career goals, family situation, and long-term plans. Individualized legal advice can make a significant difference. Connect with Mr. Kaushik Ranchod Ranchod Law Group YouTube: @ thegreencardlawyer Phone: 916-613-3553 Email: info@ranchodlaw.com ****** Interested in writing your own medical success story? We've got you covered. Here's how you can join the IMG Roadmap Community Today: - for IMG-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠drlum@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ - for course-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠admin@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ ***** Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for supportive content and download our targeted ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ planner from our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and consider joining our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ program ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to kick start your IMG journey. As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Apple podcasts ⁠⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ Youtube Music ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify ⁠⁠⁠ . ⁠⁠⁠

July 19, 2026Episode 15856 min

159. How an IMG Became a Structural Interventional Cardiologist at NYU: Dr. Ali Khan's Journey

Quick pause! Want to stay inspired with content tailored specifically to IMG’s looking to create their medical success story? Sign up for the ⁠ IMG Roadmap Newsletter ⁠ so you never miss a beat! ***** What does it really take to go from a brand-new medical school with no established IMG pathway to becoming a structural interventional cardiologist at one of the nation's top institutions? In this episode of the IMG Roadmap Podcast , Dr. Nina Lum sits down with Dr. Ali Khan , who shares his remarkable journey from Pakistan to Wayne State, Michigan State University, and ultimately NYU Langone. Along the way, he reveals the strategies that helped him earn interviews, build meaningful mentorships, secure outstanding letters of recommendation, and successfully match into one of medicine's most competitive specialties. Whether you're preparing your ERAS application, completing US clinical experience, or getting ready for residency interviews, this conversation is packed with practical advice every IMG can apply today. In This Episode You'll Learn How Dr. Khan helped register his own medical school with ECFMG pathways. Why your residency journey begins long before residency. How to maximize every US clinical rotation. Why observerships should never be passive experiences. The importance of mentorship and networking. How to build stronger letters of recommendation. Common ERAS mistakes applicants make. How to strategically use program signals. Why finding the right program "fit" matters more than prestige. Interview strategies that leave lasting impressions. How authenticity can become your greatest competitive advantage. Key Takeaways Every Rotation is an Audition Don't treat your rotation like a requirement. Treat every day as an opportunity to demonstrate curiosity, professionalism, teamwork, and growth. Build Relationships, Not Just Your CV Strong mentors and meaningful networking often open doors that scores alone cannot. Be Strategic with Your Applications Choose programs that align with your profile instead of chasing prestige alone. Letters of Recommendation Matter Strong, specialty-specific, waived letters carry enormous weight during residency selection. Your Reputation Starts Before Residency Professionalism, initiative, communication, and consistency often distinguish applicants more than exam scores. Resources Mentioned Residency Explorer ERAS ECFMG Dr. Nina Lum's ERAS Webinar Dr. Ali Khan (@aliakhanmd) IMG Path ****** Interested in writing your own medical success story? We've got you covered. Here's how you can join the IMG Roadmap Community Today: - for IMG-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠drlum@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ - for course-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠admin@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ ***** Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for supportive content and download our targeted ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ planner from our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and consider joining our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ program ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to kick start your IMG journey. As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Apple podcasts ⁠⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ Youtube Music ⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify ⁠⁠⁠ . ⁠⁠

July 12, 2026Episode 15730 min

158. The IMG Overwhelm Episode—How to Organize Your Entire Application When You Don't Know Where to Start

Quick pause! Want to stay inspired with content tailored specifically to IMG’s looking to create their medical success story? Sign up for the ⁠⁠ IMG Roadmap Newsletter ⁠⁠ so you never miss a beat! ***** Does your residency application to-do list feel endless? Between USMLE exams, U.S. clinical experience, letters of recommendation, networking, research, personal statements, and ERAS, it's easy to feel like you're constantly busy—but not actually making progress. In this episode, I share the exact framework I teach IMGs to organize their residency journey without becoming overwhelmed. Instead of trying to do everything at once, you'll learn how to break the application process into manageable phases so you can focus on the right priorities at the right time. If you've been feeling stuck, paralyzed, or unsure where to start, this episode is for you. In this episode, you'll learn: Why overwhelm isn't a motivation problem—it's a nervous system response The biggest mistake IMGs make when trying to "do it all" How to divide your residency journey into five strategic phases What should (and shouldn't) happen during each phase of preparation Why timing your USMLE exams, clinical experiences, and ERAS preparation matters How to prioritize high-impact opportunities instead of chasing every checkbox Three questions that will instantly help you refocus when you're feeling overwhelmed How to build a tracking system that keeps your application organized Why community and mentorship can dramatically reduce stress during the Match process Resources Mentioned IMG Roadmap Membership: https://imgroadmap.com Match Ready Application Tracker Connect with Me If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to the IMG Roadmap Podcast and leave a review. Every episode is designed to help International Medical Graduates build stronger applications, reduce unnecessary stress, and confidently navigate the journey to U.S. residency. ****** Interested in writing your own medical success story? We've got you covered. Here's how you can join the IMG Roadmap Community Today: - for IMG-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠drlum@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ - for course-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠admin@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ ***** Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for supportive content and download our targeted ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ planner from our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and consider joining our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ program ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to kick start your IMG journey. As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Apple podcasts ⁠⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ Youtube Music ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify ⁠⁠⁠ .

July 5, 2026Episode 15623 min

157. Reapplying After Not Matching—How to Run Your Second Cycle Like a Strategist

Quick pause! Want to stay inspired with content tailored specifically to IMG’s looking to create their medical success story? Sign up for the ⁠ IMG Roadmap Newsletter ⁠ so you never miss a beat! ***** Not matching is painful—but it is not the end of your residency journey. In this episode, I walk you through what to do after going unmatched and how to approach your next application cycle with strategy instead of fear. We'll talk about why shame—not your application—is often the biggest obstacle holding IMGs back, how to ask programs for meaningful feedback, and how to build a stronger application for your next Match. If you're preparing to reapply, this episode will help you shift your mindset and focus your energy on the changes that truly move the needle. In this episode, you'll learn: Why going unmatched does not permanently hurt your chances of matching How shame and self-doubt sabotage your next application cycle The exact framework I recommend for requesting feedback from programs Which parts of your application should be changed—and which shouldn't How to evaluate feedback objectively instead of emotionally When it makes sense to pivot specialties (and when it doesn't) Why Step 2 CK and Step 3 often deserve higher priority than adding more experiences How coaching, mentors, and peers can help you identify blind spots Why reapplying should be viewed as a strategy—not a failure Resources Mentioned Unmatched Resources: https://drninalum.com/unmatched IMG Roadmap Membership: https://imgroadmap.com Connect with Me If this episode encouraged you, subscribe to the IMG Roadmap Podcast and leave a review. Every episode is designed to help International Medical Graduates build stronger applications, navigate the Match with confidence, and ultimately become successful U.S. physicians. ****** Interested in writing your own medical success story? We've got you covered. Here's how you can join the IMG Roadmap Community Today: - for IMG-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠drlum@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ - for course-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠admin@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ ***** Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for supportive content and download our targeted ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ planner from our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and consider joining our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ program ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to kick start your IMG journey. As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Apple podcasts ⁠⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ Youtube Music ⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify ⁠⁠⁠ . ⁠⁠

June 28, 2026Episode 15620 min

156. How to Build a US Network From Zero--The Cold Outreach Playbook for IMGs

Quick pause! Want to stay inspired with content tailored specifically to IMG’s looking to create their medical success story? Sign up for the ⁠ IMG Roadmap Newsletter ⁠ so you never miss a beat! ***** Many international medical graduates believe networking is something reserved for students with prestigious medical schools, family connections, or existing mentors in the United States. I disagree. In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly how IMGs can build meaningful professional relationships—even if you're starting with absolutely zero U.S. contacts. Networking isn't about asking strangers for favors. It's about building genuine professional relationships that can open doors to mentorship, clinical experience, research opportunities, and ultimately, residency. I'll walk you through the exact cold outreach framework I teach inside the IMG Roadmap and explain why connection—not opportunity—should always come first. In this episode, you'll learn: Why networking matters more than most IMGs realize The mindset shift that makes networking feel natural How to identify the right physicians and mentors to contact My proven cold email formula for first outreach Why your opening email matters more than your CV How to keep conversations going after someone responds Why specialty organizations can dramatically expand your network How giving value builds long-term mentorship relationships The real story of an IMG who built a network from zero and matched into OB/GYN Key Takeaways Build relationships before asking for opportunities. Research the people you're contacting and find authentic common ground. Never send generic emails. End every outreach email with an easy-to-answer question. Networking is a long-term investment—not a one-time transaction. Resources Mentioned IMG Roadmap Membership Twice-monthly live coaching IMG Roadmap AI Coaching Assistant in the works Community support for residency applicants Learn more at IMGRoadmap.com ****** Interested in writing your own medical success story? We've got you covered. Here's how you can join the IMG Roadmap Community Today: - for IMG-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠drlum@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ - for course-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠admin@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ ***** Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for supportive content and download our targeted ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ planner from our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and consider joining our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ program ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to kick start your IMG journey. As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Apple podcasts ⁠⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ Youtube Music ⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify ⁠⁠⁠ .

June 21, 2026Episode 15421 min

155. The IMG Application Audit: 5 Decisions That Are Silently Killing Your Chances

Quick pause! Want to stay inspired with content tailored specifically to IMG’s looking to create their medical success story? Sign up for the ⁠⁠ IMG Roadmap Newsletter ⁠⁠ so you never miss a beat! ***** Are you unknowingly hurting your residency application before programs even have the chance to review it? In this episode, I walk you through five common mistakes I see International Medical Graduates make during the residency application process. These mistakes often come from fear, self-doubt, and what I call self-elimination—the act of removing yourself from opportunities before programs have the chance to evaluate you. I discuss how seemingly small decisions, from the way you write cold emails to how you explain gaps in your training, can significantly impact your chances of securing interviews and matching into residency. If you're preparing for ERAS, building your application strategy, or wondering whether you're limiting yourself without realizing it, this episode is for you. In This Episode, I Discuss: What self-elimination looks like and why it is so common among IMGs How your cold emails may be creating the wrong first impression The hidden danger of choosing the wrong backup specialty Why gaps in your application don't need to be a liability How to reframe your experiences into a narrative of growth Why you shouldn't automatically eliminate programs based on score assumptions What IMGs need to know about state licensure restrictions and residency training licenses Key Takeaway One of the biggest mistakes I see IMGs make is rejecting themselves before programs ever have the chance to evaluate them. While it's important to apply strategically, it's equally important not to let fear make decisions for you. Before you submit your application, take time to audit your strategy and ask yourself whether you're making fact-based decisions—or fear-based ones. Resources Mentioned IMG Roadmap Membership Match A Resident , promo code IMGROADMAP10 Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) Learn More https://imgroadmap.com https://drninalum.com/membership Enjoying the Podcast? If this episode helped you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another IMG who is preparing for residency. ***** Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for supportive content and download our targeted ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ planner from our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and consider joining our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ program ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to kick start your IMG journey. As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Apple podcasts ⁠⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ Youtube Music ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify ⁠⁠⁠ .

April 14, 202648 min

154. The IMG Dermatology Match Everyone Said Was Impossible with Dr. Ramirez (IMG Roadmap Series #133)

Quick pause! Want to stay inspired with content tailored specifically to IMG’s looking to create their medical success story? Sign up for the ⁠ IMG Roadmap Newsletter ⁠ so you never miss a beat! ***** In this powerful episode of the IMG Roadmap Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Ramirez , a physician from Medellín, Colombia, who matched into dermatology at Stanford University . In a specialty that is often labeled “impossible” for IMGs, Dr. Ramirez’s story is a reminder that strategy, research, persistence, and the right mentorship can open doors many people assume are closed. We talk through what it actually took for her to stand out, from building a strong dermatology-focused CV to securing a paid postdoctoral research position, networking intentionally, and navigating the U.S. application process as a visa-requiring IMG. This episode is especially important for IMGs aiming for competitive specialties and wondering whether their dream is too far out of reach. In this episode, we discuss: How Dr. Ramirez matched dermatology as an IMG Why a postdoctoral research position made such a big difference How she found research opportunities through cold emailing, conferences, and social media The role research, mentorship, and networking played in her application Her Step 1 and Step 2 performance and what scores matter in dermatology How she used observerships and U.S. clinical exposure strategically Why prior connection to programs matters so much in competitive specialties What IMGs should know before pursuing dermatology The mindset shift needed to go after a dream people keep calling impossible About Dr. Ramirez Dr. Ramirez is a Colombian physician and postdoctoral scholar whose work focuses on dermatology, AI, digital health, and healthcare equity. She recently matched into dermatology at Stanford University after completing a research-heavy postdoctoral experience in the U.S. If you’ve ever wondered whether matching into dermatology as an IMG is truly possible, this is the episode you need to hear. Handy Links: Dr. Ramirez’ Instagram , @marianaramirez.md Dr. Ramirez’ Linkedin, Dr. Mariana Ramirez Posada IMG Live webinar on drninalum.com Sign up for the IMG Roadmap Course ****** Interested in writing your own medical success story? We've got you covered. Here's how you can join the IMG Roadmap Community Today: - for IMG-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠drlum@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ - for course-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠admin@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ ***** Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for supportive content and download our targeted ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ planner from our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and consider joining our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ program ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to kick start your IMG journey. As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Apple podcasts ⁠⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ Youtube Music ⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify ⁠⁠⁠ .

April 5, 2026Episode 15435 min

153. From the UK to UMass: How Dr. Miranda Matched with Strategy, Not Luck! (IMG Roadmap Series #132)

Quick pause! Want to stay inspired with content tailored specifically to IMG’s looking to create their medical success story? Sign up for the ⁠ IMG Roadmap Newsletter ⁠ so you never miss a beat! ***** What does it actually take to match as an IMG without over-applying, without perfect stats, and without a “traditional” path? Dr. Miranda proves that success in the Match isn’t about doing everything — it’s about doing the right things, at the right time . A US-IMG trained in the UK, Dr. Miranda made a strategic decision early in medical school to pursue the U.S. pathway. Instead of rushing, she built her application intentionally — gaining clinical experience, leveraging mentorship, and learning how to think like the exam. The result? 16 interviews from just 75 applications — and a match at UMass. What You’ll Learn: In this episode, she breaks down exactly how she did it — including what she would do differently, what actually mattered, and what most IMGs are getting wrong. Why starting early matters more than being “smart” How to balance USMLE prep while training outside the U.S. The real reason most IMGs plateau on Step exams How to apply smarter , not just more What actually gets you interviews (hint: it’s not just scores) Why networking can outperform your CV How to build a competitive application without “perfect” research Mentioned in this Episode: Hyguru CCHF Who This Is For: IMGs training outside the U.S. Students unsure when to start the USMLE journey Applicants overwhelmed by conflicting advice Anyone who thinks they’re “too late” or “not competitive enough” ****** Interested in writing your own medical success story? We've got you covered. Here's how you can join the IMG Roadmap Community Today: - for IMG-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠drlum@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ - for course-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠admin@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ ***** Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for supportive content and download our targeted ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ planner from our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and consider joining our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ program ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to kick start your IMG journey. As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Apple podcasts ⁠⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ Youtube Music ⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify ⁠⁠⁠ . ⁠⁠

March 29, 202647 min

152. From IMG to Neurology Chief Resident: Here is what matters for residency! Dr. Nishita Bujala's IMG Success Story (IMG Roadmap Series #131)

Quick pause! Want to stay inspired with content tailored specifically to IMG’s looking to create their medical success story? Sign up for the ⁠ IMG Roadmap Newsletter ⁠ so you never miss a beat! ***** Not every IMG journey is linear and this podcast episode with Dr. Nishitha proves exactly why that’s okay. 💙 Building US clinical experience at top institutions and ultimately matching into Neurology—her story is a masterclass in resilience and strategy. 🔹 She didn’t wait for perfect, she took action 🔹 She created opportunities instead of waiting for them 🔹 She turned a prelim year into her breakthrough 🔹 She focused on growth, not comparison 🔹 She kept going even when it would’ve been easier to stop Now she’s thriving as a senior resident and future chief. If you’ve ever doubted your chances, felt behind, or questioned if it’s still worth it—this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen now and see what’s possible when you stay in the process. Connect with Dr. Nishitha: @thegirlnextdoctor ****** Interested in writing your own medical success story? We've got you covered. Here's how you can join the IMG Roadmap Community Today: - for IMG-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠drlum@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ - for course-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠admin@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ ***** Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for supportive content and download our targeted ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ planner from our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and consider joining our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ program ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to kick start your IMG journey. As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Apple podcasts ⁠⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ Youtube Music ⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify ⁠⁠⁠ . ⁠⁠

March 22, 2026Episode 15245 min

151. How Dr. Davion Bartholomew Secured a Pre-Match Offer Despite Multiple Step 1 Attempts (IMG Roadmap Series #130)

Quick pause! Want to stay inspired with content tailored specifically to IMG’s looking to create their medical success story? Sign up for the ⁠ IMG Roadmap Newsletter ⁠ so you never miss a beat! ***** What happens when your journey does not go according to plan? When you graduate medical school, start working, begin studying for the USMLE, fail Step 1 more than once, and watch your peers move on with life while you feel stuck? In this episode of the IMG Roadmap Podcast , I sit down with Dr. Davion Bartholomew , a U.S. citizen IMG from Trinidad and Tobago who shares the real story behind her journey to a family medicine pre-match offer . This is not a story of overnight success. It is a story of: repeated setbacks rebuilding after failure learning the true reason she was failing changing her mindset applying broadly using every connection available and trusting the process even when it felt impossible If you are an IMG who has ever failed an exam, questioned your future, or felt behind in life, this episode is for you. In This Episode, We Talk About: What it’s like to graduate medical school in Trinidad and Tobago and work while trying to pursue U.S. residency Why she initially chose not to get coaching—and why she later changed her mind How failing Step 1 twice affected her mentally and emotionally The hidden root cause of her exam failure Why mindset was the biggest shift in her journey How she changed her study strategy and passed How she applied to 111 programs How she landed 9 interviews How one “accidental” in-person interview became a pre-match offer What pre-match really means Why family medicine was still her number-one choice What she would say to any IMG struggling after failure Key Takeaways 1. Failure is not the end of the road Even after multiple attempts, it is still possible to match. 2. You must identify the real reason you failed For Dr. Davion, it wasn't a lack of knowledge. It was endurance. 3. Mindset matters more than people realize Changing her internal dialogue changed how she studied, how she showed up, and how she moved forward. 4. Broad application strategy matters She applied to 111 programs , mostly family medicine, and used every connection she had. 5. Pre-match can still happen—even when your application isn’t “perfect” She matched despite Step 1 attempts and being five years out from graduation. About Dr. Davion Bartholomew Dr. Davion Bartholomew is a U.S. citizen IMG from Trinidad and Tobago who graduated medical school from the University of the West Indies in 2020. She is currently working as a house officer in Emergency Medicine and has now secured a pre-match offer in Family Medicine in Pennsylvania . Connect with Dr. Davion Instagram: @davi_bartholomew Mentioned in This Episode IMG Roadmap Planner drninalum.com/calendar IMG Roadmap Waitlist drninalum.com/waitlist ****** Interested in writing your own medical success story? We've got you covered. Here's how you can join the IMG Roadmap Community Today: - for IMG-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠drlum@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ - for course-related questions: ⁠⁠⁠admin@imgroadmap.com⁠⁠⁠ ***** Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for supportive content and download our targeted ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ planner from our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and consider joining our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ program ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to kick start your IMG journey. As always you can click on the following links to listen to more episodes of our podcasts on ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Apple podcasts ⁠⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ Youtube Music ⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify ⁠⁠⁠ .