Emergency Medicine as an IMG: The Truth About Matching, SLOEs, and Networking with Dr. Helena (IMG Roadmap Series #128)

Can an IMG Really Match Into Emergency Medicine?

Emergency Medicine doesn’t have a reputation for being IMG-friendly.

So when IMGs say they’re interested in EM, the immediate response is often fear:
Is it realistic? Is it even worth trying?

In this episode of the IMG Roadmap Podcast, I sat down with Dr. Helena, an Emergency Medicine physician who went to medical school in Europe and successfully matched into EM in the United States.

Her journey proves one thing clearly:
Emergency Medicine is hard for IMGs—but it is not impossible.

The Mindset Shift IMGs Must Make in 2026

Every IMG knows the checklist:

USMLEs.
USCE.
Letters of recommendation.
Research.
Applications.

And yet, year after year, some IMGs move forward while others—equally hardworking—stay stuck, but why?

IMG Roadmap SeriesNina LumJanuary 11, 2026mindset, IMG friendly programs, IMGroadmap, imgroadmapseries, IMG Roadmap

Mastering the U.S. Residency Application: Tips from Match a Resident

The Match can be an intimidating process, but you don’t have to face it alone–Join us as we interview Amanda from Match a Resident, dedicated to helping IMGs achieve success in the Match. Today, we break down key strategies for IMGs applying for U.S. residency. From securing impactful Letters of Recommendation to crafting a standout personal statement, Dr. Loom provides actionable advice to enhance your application.

How to be a Competitive Applicant for the 2025 Match with Radiation Oncology Resident Dr. Justin Moreira (IMG Roadmap Series #124)

Welcome to another insightful episode of the IMG Roadmap Podcast, where we unravel the unique paths of IMGs in the medical field. In this episode, Dr. Justin Moreira takes us through his remarkable journey from pursuing diverse passions, including music, to ultimately securing a spot in radiation oncology. Here are the highlights of this captivating discussion!

Overcoming "Red Flags": How IMG Roadmap Alum Dr. Troi Lake Secured a Spot at John Hopkins (IMG Roadmap Series #123)

Are you worried about application "red flags" affecting your residency match prospects? Meet Dr. Troi Lake, ⁠IMG Roadmap Course Alum⁠ and pathology PGY-1 at the Johns Hopkins Hospital! Tune in to learn how she leveraged her experience and skills to achieve success despite various challenges.

Neurology Unveiled: IMG Success Stories, Strategy, and Adaptability

Step into the world of neurological excellence with an episode tailored exclusively for ambitious International Medical Graduates (IMGs). The journey to mastering Neurology has been paved by exceptional individuals who overcame diverse challenges to achieve their dreams. Get ready to explore their remarkable insights, strategies, and triumphs as they share their wisdom exclusively with you.

IMG Roadmap Course Match Party, 2023 Edition: Student Success Stories

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Are you teetering on the edge of your US medical residency dreams, uncertain of the path ahead? Last year, students in the IMG Roadmap Course walked in your shoes, faced the same dilemmas, and emerged triumphant.

In this exclusive podcast episode, you're invited to our IMG Roadmap Course Match Party. Despite a slightly shaky internet connection, the insights shared are nothing short of invaluable. Tune in and let us know in the comments if you're ready to embark on this transformative journey next year!

Resilience in the Match: Dr. Oby Egeolu's Journey from Setbacks to Residency Triumph

Are you facing what feels like failure after not matching? Nigerian-born Dr. Oby Egeolu has been where you are and she’s here today to share how she was able to achieve success despite several delays in her journey. Stay tuned to learn more!

Mastering Emergency Medicine: Unlocking Success Stories for IMGs

Picture yourself as an International Medical Graduate (IMG) making waves in the realm of Emergency Medicine – an exhilarating journey brimming with challenges and triumphs. Brace yourself for a transformative episode tailored exclusively for ambitious IMGs like you. We've pooled insights from remarkable individuals who not only matched but excelled in Emergency Medicine against all odds. If you're ready to unlock the secrets of this exhilarating specialty, read on.

Navigating Residency and Beyond with Dr. Ndidiamaka "DD" Obadan of YoungerSelf MD (IMG Roadmap Series #119)

Are you an international medical graduate (IMG) aspiring to navigate the challenging path to medical residency in the U.S.? Dr. DD, an IMG who not only achieved success in her medical career but also founded YoungerSelf MD, offers valuable medical rotations and mentorship. Dr. DD episode delves into crucial questions for IMGs, providing insights into finding mentors, effective networking, and essential tips for career advancement. She shares her journey, emphasizing the significance of persistence and strategic planning.

Triumph Over Trials: Dr. Jessica Akpabio's Resilience in the Face of Exam Setbacks and Match Challenges (IMG Roadmap Series #118)

Ever faced a setback that felt insurmountable on your journey to becoming a physician?
Dr. Jessica Akpabio not only faced the challenge of multiple exam setbacks but went through the match process four times. Her story is a testament to resilience and the unwavering belief that setbacks can be transformed into stepping stones toward success. Tune in to find out more about her interesting story!

IMG Roadmap SeriesNina LumJanuary 22, 2024IMG friendly programs, IMGroadmap, failure, USMLE prep, USMLE, Match

Residency Interview Tips and Strategies from IMG Roadmap Podcast Guests

In today's blog post, we'll be drawing from the wisdom of some of our fantastic podcast guests who have shared invaluable insights on acing interviews.

We've compiled a list of tips from our podcast guests, along with links to their respective episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, so you can dive deep into their discussions and gain even more insights.

Unlocking the Match Process: Insights from an IMG turned Program Director Dr. Asim Kichloo (IMG Roadmap Series #116)

As an IMG, the match process can seem daunting, but fear not! In this episode, we interviewed Dr. Asim Kichloo, an IMG-turned-program director, who will provide valuable insights and guidance to help you navigate the program selection journey. Get ready to discover the answers to your burning questions and set yourself up for success!

Find Your Perfect Program: Insider Advice for IMGs from Match A Resident!

As an IMG, the match process can be overwhelming, but with the right guidance, you can increase your chances of success. That's why we spoke to a representative from Match A Resident to answer all your questions and help you navigate the program selection process. Keep listening to find out more!

Breaking into Residency: Tips and Opportunities for IMGs with AMOpportunities CEO Kyle Swinsky

As an IMG, applying for residency in the US can be an intimidating process, especially when you're trying to enhance your application package with US clinical experience, observerships, and other related opportunities. That's where AMOpportunities comes in to help!

Overcoming USMLE Challenges as an IMG: Insights from Nigerian-Born USMLE Guru Dr. Adeleke Adesina (IMG Roadmap Series #115)

Are you an International Medical Graduate (IMG) preparing for the USMLE exams? Do you feel like the odds are stacked against you? Today's guest, Nigerian-born USMLE guru Dr. Adesina, is here to share his wisdom on how to overcome the challenges and achieve your dream. Keep listening to find out how!

The One Thing IMG's Applying This September Must Consider.

As an IMG preparing for the USMLE, you may have concerns about the recent changes to Step 1 scoring, which has shifted from a numeric score to pass/fail. This change has both advantages and disadvantages, especially for IMGs who need to demonstrate their competitiveness in the match process.

From India to the Match: Dr. Avanthika Chaithanya's Journey to Residency at Mount Sinai (IMG Roadmap Series #113)

Transitioning to the US medical system as an international medical graduate (IMG) can be a daunting task. However, with careful planning and preparation, it can be a successful journey. In this blog post, we will share the story of Dr. Avanthika Chaithanya who accepted a pre-match offer at Mount Sinai in pediatrics, and provide tips and recommendations for IMGs who are starting her own journey.

IMG Roadmap SeriesNina LumApril 2, 2023IMG friendly programs, IMGroadmap, imgroadmapseries, India

No Age Limit to Success: Journey of a US IMG Family Medicine Resident Dr. Jessica Dauphin (IMG Roadmap series #110)

Are you worried about starting your medical journey or residency because of your age? Don't be! Dr. Jessica Dauphin, a US IMG and family medicine resident, is here to prove that age is just a number when it comes to success.

IMG Roadmap SeriesNina LumMarch 12, 2023img, IMG friendly programs, IMG, imgroadmapseries, US IMG, USCE

Building Your Medical Success Story: Tips from US-IMG Dr. Christina Abi Kheir (IMG Roadmap Series #109)

Are you dreaming of pursuing a competitive specialty like Pediatrics but feeling unsure of how to make it happen? If you have not matched and are considering going through the SOAP process, today's guest, US IMG Dr. Christina Abi Kheir, is here to offer guidance and help you build your medical success story!