Dr. Pooja Varshney is a Pediatric Allergist and Immunologist at the Dell Children’s Hospital in Austin Texas. She is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the Dell Medical School at the University of Texas Austin, and is Director of the Dell Children’s Food Allergy Center, a clinical research center of distinction. She is the principal investigator on clinical trials that are studying the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of food allergy. Dr. Varshney has a busy clinical practice, along with teaching and research responsibilities. She conducts clinical research and also teaches students and residents at the bedside and with didactic lectures. One of the things that struck me about our conversation is that when it comes to her field, she “sometimes feels so lucky – I love everything about it“. She specifically highlights the long-term relationships with her patients, and the ability to follow them throughout their childhood. In her particular field, she also finds the scientific aspects to be fascinating, with an explosion of knowledge in the basic science and clinical aspects of food allergy. When I asked her how she handled such a busy practice, she highlighted several important strategies.  One is knowing your priorities, and making sure that you protect time for those priorities.  Her research days are protected time, meaning that she can focus completely on her clinical research patients during that time.  She also highlighted that if you are employed, you need to set these goals in your job description. She also described “earning your autonomy“, meaning that performing at a high level over the years means that with time, you can work your way to a place where you can structure your job duties around your goals. It’s important to have agency to be able to design the job that you want. Her entrance into clinical research was really helped by having a mentor in her fellowship, going to professional meetings, presenting her work, and collaborating and networking and committees

Dr. Stephanie Cotell is a dermatologist in private practice in Columbus, Ohio.She has been in practice for over 25 years, and as she says, “I love my job."This episode provides a great overview of what it is like to practice general dermatology. Dr. Cotell practices mainly medical dermatology, with some procedural dermatology and cosmetic dermatology.In this episode, she highlights several aspects of dermatology practice that she particularly enjoys.  This includes the depth and breath of the types of conditions that she sees, as well as the chance to do many small procedures throughout the day.  She also highlights how much she enjoys learning about new medications and advances in the field, as well as the collegiality that she enjoys with her colleagues.  She also discusses the “second learning curve“ in private practice, which is continuous quality improvement to make sure that she is providing effective and efficient patient care.  Dr. Cotell is employed in a physician-owned private practice, and she highlights the autonomy she enjoys in this practice setting.  As reports continue to be released about physicians who are seeking non-clinical careers, I was so glad to highlight the experience of a physician who has been a happily practicing clinician for years.

I was very glad to have the opportunity to speak with Dr. Srihari Gopal, who is a physician in the pharmaceutical industry and current Global Head at Regeneron.  His work has encompassed multiple areas within drug development, from study design and research to regulatory filings to leading drug development teams. I have fielded a number of questions from students and early career physicians about the pharmaceutical industry, and as Dr. Gopal described his career, there were several aspects of his work that he highlighted as particularly meaningful and energizing.-He has really enjoyed learning and advancing the science of drug development, and has approximately 200 publications and 30 patents to his name.-He talked about the ability to make an impact on a wider scale with the work that he does, and how that is an aspect of his work that he finds very meaningful.-He is also on the cutting edge of medicine. The drugs that he is currently working on are those that we will be seeing in the clinic 10 years from now. In this episode, he provides some great advice for medical students and physicians who are interested in learning more about working in the pharmaceutical industry

This conversation with Dr. Brett Perkison highlighted several interesting aspects of both Occupational Medicine and career development.First, many medical students are simply not exposed to Occupational Medicine as a specialty choice. Learning about the different career choices within this specialty is interesting. Residents receive a Masters of Public Health during their training, and bring a preventive medicine and public health focus to their work. One of the themes I see in physicians who are energized at work is that they maintain a lifelong commitment to learning and development. As Dr. Perkison‘s career has developed, he has continued to nurture his interest in clinical care, leadership, and research. He currently serves as the Residency Program Director of the Occupational and Environmental Medicine residency at the University of Texas Houston. He also continues his research studies, including projects focused on the health of disaster response workers and diabetes prevention.  About Dr. William “Brett” Perkison, M.D., MPH, FACOEM: Dr. Perkison is an Assistant Professor on faculty at the University of Texas School of Public Health, where he is the program director for the UT Occupational and Environmental Medicine residency. Prior to joining the UT faculty, he has had extensive experience managing occupational health services in both the energy and health care industries. During his career he has also been involved in leading disaster response efforts in the Houston area for numerous flooding events, including for Hurricanes Katrina, Ike, and Harvey.   Occupational Medicine College Web Site: https://acoem.org/ American Board of Preventive Medicine: https://www.theabpm.org/ UT Occupational and Environmental Medicine residency website: https://sph.uth.edu/research/centers/swcoeh/occupational-environmental-medicine/ Link to Dr. Perkison's publications: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/myncbi/1pa0ucD38iwAs/bibliography/public/

This conversation with Dr. Terri-Ann Samuels highlights the field of urogynecology/female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. It was an interesting overview of the field, and Dr. Samuels also had some great advice for medical students, including an emphasis on lifelong learning.  With all of the advances in surgery and surgical techniques, and especially the acceleration of technology in the last five years, she highlighted this as a key skill.  She also emphasized the importance of mentors, and how important that had been in her own career.  She advised that when you’re working with your mentors, really try to focus in on those whose work life and lifestyle, inside and outside of work, aligns with what you envision for yourself. And ask questions, like what time do they get home from the hospital. She also discussed the role of autonomy, and how being able to start her own practice and control her schedule has really helped her live her values, including her medical mission work in fistula repair in other countries. Dr. Samuels is a board-certified urogynecologist/female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgeon. She founded her private practice Essentially You with a focus on surgical and non-invasive treatments for pelvic medicine conditions. She completed her residency in Obstetrics Gynecology and then a fellowship in Urogynecology.  She is active in speaking on women’s health issues, and has been involved in international medical and surgical missions for many years, including fistula mission work in Kenya and Liberia. More about Dr. Samuels and her practiceInformation from the American Urogynecologic Society on the field

Dr. Munish Chawla is a Diagnostic Radiologist who later became a board-certified Lifestyle Medicine Physician due to his deep passion for the field.  In speaking with him, I was really struck by the fulfillment he finds in this new field.  He told me that reading a CT scan and making a diagnosis is gratifying, but the feeling of seeing a patient succeed with lifestyle changes was incredibly fulfilling.Another thing that struck me about his career arc was that he didn’t set out to change careers. He found himself interested in lifestyle medicine, and was initially just following his curiosity to learn more about it. Through the process, he also became very interested in behavior change. As he put it, he thought that once he shared information about the benefits of lifestyle change, that people would go out and make changes. Recognizing the importance of behavior change, he started studying coaching, Western psychology, and Buddhist psychology, in addition to mindfulness meditation.Dr. Chawla, with his wife, Internist Dr. Bandana Chawla, is also a founder of the non-profit Peaceful Planet Foundation.  I attended their conference last year, and came away very inspired.For medical students and practicing physicians, his career arc provides some insightful lessons, while his experience as a practicing Lifestyle Medicine physician will be very helpful to those considering this as a career. Contact +1 713-592-8900 info@lifestyledocs.com https://embeelifestyledocs.com/   Specialties Available for Lectures Lifestyle Medicine Radiology

How do you build a career on the cutting edge of medicine? For Dr. Caitlin Sutton, Division Chief of Maternal-Fetal Anesthesiology at Texas Children's Hospital, it involves pursuing your professional passions-- even when you receive unsolicited negative feedback from colleagues. Our conversation was a good reminder for me that working on the cutting edge of medicine means that very few people have done what you have done. And that means that others may not be able to envision it--and may even discourage your chosen career path. Texas Children's Hospital is one of the pioneers in fetal surgeries (in which surgery is performed on a fetus while in utero), and Dr. Sutton administers anesthesia during these procedures for both the fetus and the mother. She is one of a very small group of anesthesiologists across the country who can do so, having completed fellowships in both obstetric anesthesiology and pediatric anesthesiology.  For medical students, Dr. Sutton provides a great overview of what it is like to work as an anesthesiologist. Her passion for her work comes through when she talks about how fulfilling it is to make patients feel safe and comfortable during life-defining moments.There are also some great career insights in this episode. As she says, “it takes a village to pursue any medical career." Although she faced negative feedback about her career choices early on, now she can’t imagine a better job for herself, and she advises students to go for what they want. Dr. Sutton is also a clinical ethicist, a field that we touch upon here and that we plan to delve into more deeply in a later episode.Dr. Caitlin Sutton, Division Chief of Maternal-Fetal Anesthesiology at Texas Children's Hospital  

Dr. Guo is a Professor of Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine at the MD Anderson Cancer Center. As a rehabilitation physician, she works with cancer patients at all stages of their therapy to improve their function and recovery. She also brings an integrative approach to her care: later in her career, she went back to school to become certified in medical acupuncture for physicians, a treatment she is now able to provide for her patients.  When I asked her what she finds most energizing about her work, she focused on the fulfillment of seeing patients regain their function, as well as the ability to use her creative problem-solving skills to help patients overcome their challenges. She also described the support she receives that helps her continue growing and learning. Dr. Guo is a full Professor at the MD Anderson Cancer Center. She is certified in medical acupuncture for physicians. https://faculty.mdanderson.org/profiles/ying_guo.html

There are several insights shared in this episode with Dr. Anthony Brissett which really struck me as important for career longevity. Dr. Brissett is a facial plastic surgeon and ENT physician. He wears a lot of hats, including responsibilities in clinical care, research, teaching, administration, and increasing responsibilities related to his medical non-profit organization.  He is very mission-driven, which has led him to devote much time to humanitarian work. His work in many countries around the world, from Ukraine to Rwanda, has focused on providing surgical care to patients as well as "developing capacity", in which he has worked to strengthen medical training programs locally. He continues to grow in his clinical practice as well, developing a new area of focus within facial aesthetic surgery called cultural preservation.  Another item that struck me about our conversation was how he gets it all done--always a key question when a physician wears so many hats. He spoke about collaboration, and the African proverb that says that "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." He's also very structured about his work week, as well as very persistent in asking for the resources he needs in order to provide the highest quality patient care.  I'm struck by how many of the physicians I speak to who are energized at work combine these two facets of their career. They are very mission-driven and focused on their values, while at the same time place a strong emphasis on the practical side of getting things done. Dr. Brissett is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon and otolaryngologist. He is a founding member and board member of Casa El Buen Samaritano, which provides free healthcare services. He also travels across the world to provide surgical care, including Ukraine, Rwanda, and multiple other countries.He is the Director of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Houston Methodist Hospital, as well as Professor of Clinical Otolaryngology, Houston Methodist Hospital/ Weill Cornell Medical College.

Dr. Sejal Desai is double board-certified in Family Medicine and Obesity Medicine, and one of the things that really comes through in this episode is the deep connection she feels to her work as an obesity medicine physician. In fact, she calls Obesity Medicine “happy medicine“, and she describes how happy she was that she discovered this field well into her career as a family medicine physician. She speaks about her deep passion for preventative medicine throughout her career, and how extra training in obesity medicine, followed by board certification, has helped her make a significant impact in her patients’ lives. This insight, about connecting deeply with one’s purpose, helps her stay energized and fuels her passion for helping patients with obesity overcome challenges and make long-lasting lifestyle changes.   Dr. Desai is a double board-certified physician practicing in Houston, TX.  She has been in practice for almost 20 years and has been specifically working with patients who struggle with the disease of obesity since 2013.  She is the Founder and Medical Director of Tula Medical Weight Loss & Wellness, a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to weight loss and maintenance.  She also serves as a board member for HOPE (Houston Obesity Partnership for Excellence), a GOLD Panel Speaker to educate healthcare providers about rare genetic diseases of obesity, is a member of the Obesity Medicine Association’s membership committee, and volunteers in her community to educate adults and kids on the benefits of lifestyle intervention for chronic disease prevention. Tula Medical Weight Loss & Wellness - www.tulawlw.com  American Board of Obesity Medicine - www.Abom.org  Obesity Medicine Association - www.obesitymedicine.org

Dr. Thao Galvan is a pediatric and adult transplant surgeon, in the division of abdominal transplantation. She is an Associate Professor of Surgery at the Baylor College of Medicine, and operates at Baylor-affiliated hospitals and Texas Children’s Hospital. She is also an award-winning educator, health policy scholar, and researcher.In this episode, she shares what a week in the life of a transplant surgeon looks like, from spending many hours in the operating room, to traveling across the country, to working on the logistics of arranging transplants. She is frank about how hard it is, but also shares some of her strategies and insights on how to be successful in such a challenging field while continuing to grow in her career and care for her young family.One of these strategies that Dr. Galvan discusses is how she has embraced a growth mindset, and how she continues to learn and grow with her surgical skills as well as her teaching skills. She discusses how important it is to maintain a cohesive unit with her team in and out of the OR, and how one of her goals is to "keep the train moving" and still keep it playful.  https://www.bcm.edu/people-search/nhu-thao-galvan-21685 https://www.texaschildrens.org/find-a-doctor/nhu-thao-nguyen-galvan-md-mph

In this episode, Dr. Amy Paller shares some of her insights and strategies behind her long and impactful career as a clinician, translational researcher, and Professor and Chair. One of those insights is that in order to succeed as a researcher, it takes a village. She advises students that success in research depends on a great team, as well as mentors and funding. For her own career, she has found that a diversity of interests, passion for her work, and time with family has helped fight burnout and has kept her energized. Dr. Paller currently serves as the Chair and Professor of Dermatology, Professor of Pediatrics, and Principal Investigator of the NIH-funded Skin Disease Research Center at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. An author of more than 350 original publications, Dr. Paller is an NIH-funded investigator with a focus on genetic disorders of the skin and cutaneous immunologic disorders in children, including atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.  Dr. Paller has also directed the Pediatric Dermatology Clinical Trials Unit at Northwestern for the past 20 years, and has been the lead investigator on several landmark trials in pediatric skin disease. Apart from her significant contributions to clinical dermatology and translational research, Dr. Paller has been a teacher and mentor to many students, residents, and researchers, many of whom are now at institutions across the country and globe. 

How can you best prepare for the USMLE Step 2 exam? In this episode, we continue our conversation with Dr. Ryan Downey, test performance coach and expert in educational assessment.  Dr. Downey discusses three of the “highest utility,” or most effective, active learning techniques he teaches his clients. Internally referred to as the “Three T’s of Active Learning,” these techniques – Test yourself, Talk it out, and Two (or more) channels – are evidence-backed techniques that help medical students learn material faster and retain it more deeply. Resources More information on test performance services offered by MD2B Diagnostic Dr. Ryan Downey’s background Article on relative effectiveness of learning techniques: Dunlosky et al., 2013 Article on the science of learning: Weinstein et al., 2018 Blog post on active learning techniques

With the Step 1 exam now using Pass/Fail scoring, the numerical score on the Step 2 CK exam is even more important than ever. How can you be sure that you’re preparing for the USMLE Step 2 exam in the best way possible? In this episode, we interview Dr. Ryan Downey, test performance coach and expert in educational assessment.  Dr. Downey discusses some of the key strategies he used to help his client “David“ boost his Step 2 scores from 208 on his practice exams to an official Step 2 score of 260. The key to test success is a personalized study strategy that works for each individual client. Using the results from David’s Diagnostic Intake Assessment, which is a proprietary tool developed by Dr. Downey and Dr. Samir Desai, David was able to change the way he studied to incorporate more use of self-assessment, more active learning strategies, and more practice with clinical reasoning tools. Resources More information on test performance services offered by MD2B Diagnostic Dr. Ryan Downey’s background

How do you prepare for the MMI multiple mini interview?  As more medical schools adopt this format, premed students need to be prepared to interview at medical schools that use this format. In this episode, Dr. Rajani Katta, author of the books "The Medical School Interview" and "The MMI: Strategies From Admissions Faculty", breaks down the process of preparing for your MMI. Although some schools have written that there is no way to prepare for the MMI, Dr. Katta reviews the ways in which students can start to prepare.  Although you can’t predict which questions will be asked, you can prepare to be asked to participate in a task scenario, an acting scenario, or a discussion question prompt. Some schools also include traditional interview questions and behavioral interview questions as one of their MMI stations. These strategies can help you excel during your MMI. If you'd like to sign up for free excerpts of both of our med school interview books, you can sign up here. Other Resources: The Medical School Interview book: Winning Strategies from Admissions Faculty The MMI book: Winning Strategies from Admissions Faculty Preparing for Your MMI: 9 Strategies (blog post) Answering ethical scenarios (blog post) Podcast episode on the ethical principles underlying medicine (Part 1) Part 2: Podcast episode on the ethical principles underlying medicine The Successful Match blog

How do you prepare for the MMI multiple mini interview?  As more medical schools adopt this format, premed students need to be prepared to interview at medical schools that use this format. In this episode, Dr. Rajani Katta, author of The Medical School Interview and the MMI: Strategies From Admissions Faculty, breaks down the process of preparing for your MMI. Although some schools have written that there is no way to prepare for the MMI, Dr. Katta reviews the ways in which students can start to prepare.  Although you can’t predict which questions will be asked, you can prepare to be asked to participate in a task scenario, an acting scenario, or a discussion question prompt. Some schools also include traditional interview questions and behavioral interview questions as one of their MMI stations. These strategies can help you excel during your MMI. If you'd like to sign up for free excerpts of both of our med school interview books, you can sign up here. Other Resources: The Medical School Interview book: Winning Strategies from Admissions Faculty The MMI book Preparing for Your MMI: 9 Strategies Answering ethical scenarios Podcast episode on the ethical principles underlying medicine Part 2: Podcast episode on the ethical principles underlying medicine The Successful Match blog

What does it take to match into a competitive specialty or program? In Part 2 of this series, join Drs. Samir Desai and Rajani Katta as they discuss important strategies to significantly improve your chances. In this episode, you'll learn about faculty advocates, why it's important to develop relationships with them, and how they can help you reach your goals. You'll also appreciate the power of demonstrating "fit" with a program and how that can help you in the residency selection process.  

How do you match into a competitive specialty? In this episode, we discuss specific strategies for matching, even if you have a lower USMLE score or may otherwise be less competitive than other applicants. We review three major strategies, including the importance of contact with a program's faculty, the importance of faculty advocates, and the importance of emphasizing "fit" with a program via your ERAS and personal statement. 

In the 2021-2022 residency application cycle, applicants applying to internal medicine, general surgery, and dermatology will be able to signal programs of their significant interest through the ERAS supplemental application. In this episode, join Dr. Samir Desai as he discusses preference signaling, why it's in your best interests to participate in it, and some factors to consider as you decide which programs to signal. 

This is Part 2 of our series on the supplemental ERAS application which was introduced in 2021 for residency applicants applying to internal medicine (preliminary and categorical), general surgery (categorical), and dermatology. In Part 1, we talked about how to complete the past experiences section of this application. In this episode, our focus is on the geographic information section. Join Dr. Samir Desai as he discusses the role geography plays in the residency selection process and its importance. With a stronger understanding of why programs consider geography, you will be in a better position to approach this section of the supplemental application.

In 2021, the supplemental ERAS application was added as a new component of the residency application for applicants applying to internal medicine (preliminary and categorical), general surgery (categorical), and dermatology residency programs. In this episode, join Dr. Samir Desai as he discusses why the supplemental application came into existence. You will also learn how to complete the past experiences section of the application so that the information programs seek is conveyed through your answers. In forthcoming episodes, we will address two other components of the supplemental application - geographic information and preference signaling.

We know that participation in research, especially work that leads to publication or presentation, can strengthen the residency application. However, a major challenge is finding such opportunities. In this episode, join Drs. Samir Desai and Rajani Katta as they break down the process of finding research projects and mentors. Among the questions they will answer: How important is research? How can you go beyond participation to get published or presented? Can you be published without participating in formal research? 

Over 5,200 U.S. citizen IMGs participated in the 2021 NRMP Match. These students had to answer some difficult questions before they started medical school. Among them: Should I attend medical school outside the U.S.? Will my decision to go abroad affect my specialty choice? What can I do to maximize my chances of success in the residency match?   To help answer these important questions, join Dr. Samir Desai as he interviews Dr. Marc Katz, a graduate of the Ross University School of Medicine. After completing internal medicine residency, Marc matched into cardiology and is currently a cardiology fellow. Having written extensively about his journey in medicine, Marc offers his insight and gives us his perspectives on a wide range of issues. These include choosing a medical school, optimal learning strategies, USMLE success tips, and advice for clinical rotations.    Visit us at TheSuccessfulMatch.com and MD2BConnect.com for more resources to help you reach your goals in medicine. 

On Monday of Match Week, the NRMP informs residency applicants if they have matched. Unmatched applicants can take part in the NRMP Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program, also known as SOAP. SOAP offers a process for applicants to secure positions in unfilled residency programs. The process is very competitive with over 12,000 applicants competing for traditionally just over 1,000 positions.    In this episode, Drs. Rajani Katta and Samir Desai discuss how to maximize your chances for success in the SOAP. You'll learn the steps that can be taken prior to Match week to strengthen your chances in the SOAP. You'll also learn about the mistakes that applicants make, some of which are disastrous with repercussions that can last long after Match Week.    Visit us at TheSuccessfulMatch.com and MD2BConnect.com for more resources to help you reach your goals in medicine.

Although telemedicine has been available for years, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated its use not only in patient care but also in medical education. Drs. Rajani Katta and Samir Desai discuss telemedicine rotations and how students can make the most of these learning opportunities while working as part of the healthcare team. With a focus on video encounters, you'll learn how to prepare for an effective encounter, connect with patients, take the history while remaining engaged with the patient, and properly close the session.  

If you are an international medical graduate (IMG) seeking to complete your residency training in the U.S., you will face unique challenges in your efforts to match successfully. Overcoming these challenges will require a strong understanding of the application process as well as the strength and perseverance to handle the ups and downs that you will experience during this process.    What will be particularly invaluable to you as you navigate these hurdles is knowing how IMGs before you reached their goals. In this episode, join Dr. Samir Desai as he interviews Dr. Bruno Lima, a remarkable young physician from Brazil who completed his internal medicine residency training at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Lima is currently a cardiology fellow at Emory University and will be starting a Cardiovascular Imaging Fellowship at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in 2021.      In this episode, Dr. Lima will walk us through the steps he took to become an internal medicine resident in the U.S. As we discuss the volunteer, clinical, and research experiences he took part in, you will gain insight into how the choices that we make and the people with whom we work can have a major impact on our personal and professional growth as well as our chances of success. You’ll be left with some powerful lessons that will help guide you in your own journey to a successful match. 

Medical schools and residency programs have shifted to virtual interviews in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. While virtual interviews offer a safe alternative to in-person interviews, they do present applicants with unique challenges. In this episode, Drs. Rajani Katta and Samir Desai share their perspectives on common mistakes applicants make when doing virtual interviews. You will learn about the technological issues that can prevent even the most prepared applicants from making a strong impression. Become "technologically ready" to deliver a powerful performance that brings you closer to your goal: your place in medical school or residency. 

The strongest medical school interview responses are those that are unique to you. Creating these types of responses relies on being able to discuss and highlight your unique interests, strengths, goals, and experiences. That's why it's so important to review and analyze all of the activities that you have been able to take part in. Reviewing your activities, and analyzing what these activities meant to you and how they reflect your strengths and interests is a very important part of interview preparation. In this episode, Dr. Rajani Katta provides a framework for how to analyze and reflect upon your activities and experiences.

There are some questions that we can confidently say you will be asked at every medical school admissions interview.  "Why are you interested in our medical school" is certainly one of them. Unfortunately, many applicants fail to develop and deliver an answer that resonates with their interviewers.    In this episode, Dr. Rajani Katta and Dr. Samir Desai provide a detailed approach to developing a winning answer to this important question. By the end of the episode, you'll know exactly how to transform your current answer into a more powerful one. Learn how to show your interviewers what you have to offer and why you're a great fit for their school. 

After all those hours spent in class and studying for the MCAT, not to mention poring over your application and personal statement to make sure it's just right, you've received the words you've been waiting to hear. "We would like to invite you for an interview..."     The final hurdle in the medical school admissions process is the interview. But how important is it really? A review of discussion forums reveals very different views. Some students believe that the interview is merely a formality and that the decision has already been made. Others maintain that you must take it as seriously as your GPA and MCAT.   Join Dr. Rajani Katta and Dr. Samir Desai as they discuss the medical school interview in great depth and give you an insiders' perspective of its importance and role in the admissions process. 

Although residency applicants may submit the same personal statement to all programs, ERAS allows applicants to create program-specific personal statements. Should you personalize or customize your personal statement for different programs? Join Drs. Rajani Katta and Samir Desai as they discuss the pros and cons of sending program-specific statements, best practices if you choose to do so, and how to avoid common mistakes that applicants make when creating and submitting personalized statements.

In response to the suspension of the USMLE Step 2 CS exam due to COVID, the ECFMG has identified new pathways for ECFMG accreditation for international medical graduates (IMGs) who have not yet taken and passed the CS exam. Join Drs. Rajani Katta and Samir Desai as they discuss the five new pathways for certification and what steps you should take next.

The Medical Student Performance Evaluation or MSPE, previously known as the Dean's Letter, is an important part of the residency application. In a recent survey of over 1,200 program directors representing 24 specialties, over 80% of programs cited the MSPE as a factor used to make interview decisions. To put this in context, only two other criteria - the USMLE Step 1 score and letters of recommendation - were used more often than the MSPE to decide whom to interview.   Join Drs. Rajani Katta and Samir Desai as they discuss the MSPE in more depth. You'll learn when this important document is developed, how it's written, and the type of content that is included. You'll also learn how you can take an active role in shaping your own MSPE so that the final document produced serves you well in the residency selection process.    www.thesuccessfulmatch.com

The USMLE program has suspended the USMLE Step 2 CS (Clinical Skills) exam for the next 12-18 months due to the coronavirus pandemic. What does this mean for residency applicants? Join Drs. Rajani Katta and Samir Desai as they discuss the implications of this decision for medical students and international medical graduates. 

Letters of recommendation are extremely important for success in the residency match. How important are these letters? In a recent survey of program directors in 24 specialties, letters were rated second in importance. The only factor rated more important in making interview decisions was the USMLE Step 1 score.  In this episode, Drs. Rajani Katta and Samir Desai discuss how medical students and applicants should choose potential letter writers. You'll learn what role the rank of the letter writer plays, as well as how to request letters and how to provide helpful information to your letter writers to ensure the strongest letter possible. You’ll also learn what to do if your letter writer has requested that you provide them with a draft letter of recommendation. For more information, visit us at www.TheSuccessfulMatch.com.      

The process of applying for a residency position in the Match is challenging under normal circumstances. The coronavirus pandemic has made the process even more complex. In this episode, Drs. Rajani Katta and Samir Desai discuss how U.S. medical students can adapt to this rapidly changing situation. You'll learn what steps to take now, what to do if your rotation or away elective has been canceled, and how to develop relationships with attendings at a time when your usual opportunities may be limited. For more information, visit us at www.TheSuccessfulMatch.com.

The coronavirus pandemic has led hospitals to cancel their observership and externship programs for international medical graduates (IMGs). In this episode, Drs. Rajani Katta and Samir Desai discuss how this will impact IMGs in the residency match. You will learn how to find and take part in U.S. clinical experience during these difficult times and maximize your letters of recommendation. You will also learn how to adjust your overall match strategy and strengthen your overall profile as a residency applicant. For more information, visit us at:   www.TheSuccessfulMatch.com www.MD2BConnect.com 

The USMLE Step 1 exam will change from numerical scoring to pass/fail scoring in 2022. This will have a major effect on the way in which residency programs evaluate applicants. What does this mean for international medical students and graduates seeking to apply to residency in the United States?   Join Dr. Rajani Katta and Dr. Samir Desai, authors of the book The Successful Match, as they discuss how this change will impact IMGs.   For more information on the residency match, visit us at:   TheSuccessfulMatch.com MD2BConnect.com 

With so many medical school options in the Caribbean, it can be difficult for premedical students to decide which school to attend. In this episode, join Dr. Samir Desai as he interviews Sapana Desai, a graduate of the St. Matthews University School of Medicine located on the island of Grand Cayman.  After learning why she chose to attend the school, you'll hear about her preclinical years, the basic science faculty, and the opportunities she had to make an impact on residents of the island.  You'll also learn about how the school prepares their students for the USMLE exams and what her clinical rotation experiences in the U.S. were like. This episode featuring St. Matthews University School of Medicine will leave you more informed!

Dr. Samir Desai continues his conversation with Showly Nicholson who recently received some great news - he got into Harvard Medical School! In Part 1 of this two-part series, Showly described his journey to medical school with a focus on academics. He introduced some of the strategies he discovered that led him to achieve all As. Now, in part 2, Showly goes into more depth on these strategies.  You'll learn about the 3 Ps required to get As. You'll understand why getting to know your professors is crucial for academic success. Showly also shares 4 common exam mistakes, and how you can avoid them. 

Join Dr. Samir Desai as he interviews Showly Nicholson who just received some great news - he got into Harvard Medical School!  In Part 1 of this two-part series, Showly describes his journey to medical school with a focus on academics. Although he set a goal to achieve all As in high school, this goal proved to be elusive.  You'll see how Showly made adjustments to his study plans and strategies over time, and how these changes led to his academic success. You'll be left with actionable advice to boost your own GPA. 

With over 500 internal medicine residency programs to choose from, it can be difficult for applicants to decide which programs to apply. In this episode, join Dr. Samir Desai as he discusses 3 important factors to consider.

In this episode, Dr. Samir Desai continues his conversation with Dhruv Gupta, a fourth-year medical student who just received some good news. He got into Psychiatry! Part 2 will provide an in-depth look at letters of recommendation and the residency interview. Although some of the information is directed towards psychiatry residency applicants, all residency applicants will find this information incredibly useful. Dhruv will show us how he partnered with his attendings to have strong letters of recommendation written on his behalf.  He will also share with us some of the challenges that he experienced scheduling residency interviews.  Considerable time is devoted to discussing the questions Dhruv encountered during his interviews, including those he found particularly difficult. How did Dhruv rebound to answer the question "What are your three weaknesses" when he only had two weaknesses prepared to share? How did he rise to the occasion when an interviewer asked him to role play through different psychiatry scenarios? These are just a few of the questions that Dhruv and Dr. Desai will discuss. If you haven't heard Part 1 of this conversation with Dhruv, please do take the time to listen to that episode. You'll learn how Dhruv developed an interest in psychiatry, how he confirmed his interest during his core clerkship, and how he strengthened his candidacy for a residency position. You'll also discover tips to excel during away rotations in the specialty.    The information Dhruv shares will help you plan your own strategy for a successful match in psychiatry.

Join Dr. Samir Desai as he interviews Dhruv Gupta, a fourth-year medical student who just received some good news. He got into Psychiatry! Dhruv's interest in psychiatry can be traced back to his childhood spent living in different countries. He encountered poverty and violence, and you'll learn why those experiences motivated him to pursue psychology as a major in college. With an interest in psychiatry, he began medical school at St. George's University. Not long after starting, however, he experienced some significant hardships. Learn what happened to Dhruv, and how he was able to overcome those challenges.  After completing his core clerkship in psychiatry and confirming his interest in the field, you'll learn why Dhruv did multiple away rotations, what these experiences were like, and how you can make a strong impression during your own away electives.    The information Dhruv shares will help you plan your own strategy for a successful match in psychiatry. 

Matching into Ophthalmology has been difficult for years, and the 2018 Ophthalmology Match was no exception. There were far more applicants than positions available, and approximately 25% of the applicant pool failed to secure residency positions in the specialty. To maximize the chances of a successful match, it's important that you have the "right strategy" in place. Although the optimal strategy will differ from one applicant to another, there is much that you can learn from the experiences of those who have successfully matched. In this episode, join Dr. Samir Desai as he interviews Sudip Thakar, a fourth-year medical student who just matched into Ophthalmology at Northwestern University. You'll learn how Sudip developed an interest in ophthalmology, his global health experience at an Eye Hospital in Israel, why he decided to take a year off to perform research in the field, and how he was able to publish numerous articles in a relatively short period of time.  Having just interviewed for residency positions in the specialty, Sudip also provides an in-depth look about the type of interviews he encountered, and some of the questions he was asked. 

In this episode, join Dr. Samir Desai as he answers an important question about letters of recommendation in the medical school admissions process. Should applicants send medical schools a premedical committee letter of recommendation or individual letters of recommendation? 

Seventy-five percent of U.S. citizens studying medicine abroad choose to attend medical school in the Caribbean. As difficult as that decision can be, it can be even more challenging to decide which school among the 60 plus medical schools in the Caribbean to attend. In this episode, join Samir Desai as he interviews Maninder Sethi, a graduate of the Windsor University School of Medicine. You'll learn about the factors that led Maninder to Windsor University, what life is like on the island of St. Kitts, and what students do outside the classroom. You'll also learn about her clinical rotations in the U.S., and the important lessons that she took away from these experiences. 

Matching into Emergency Medicine can be difficult given that there are far more applicants than residency positions available. In recent years, nearly 10% of allopathic medical students have failed to match. These numbers are worse for osteopathic and international medical graduates. To maximize the chances of a successful match, it's important that you have the "right strategy" in place.  Although the optimal strategy will differ from one applicant to another, there is much that you can learn from the experiences of those who have successfully matched. In this episode, join Dr. Samir Desai as he interviews Dr. Brian Fromm, an emergency medicine resident at Thomas Jefferson University. You'll understand the pitfalls in scheduling away rotations in EM, and how to shine during these rotations. You'll also learn about an important and powerful, yet underutilized technique, in increasing interview offers. Wondering what you may be asked during the residency interview? Brian fills us in on some challenging and unusual questions he encountered on the interview trail.

International medical graduates (IMGs) seeking to submit strong residency applications recognize the importance of U.S. clinical experience. However, the process of finding and securing such experiences, known as observership and externships, can be very difficult. In this episode of the Success in Medicine podcast, join Dr. Samir Desai as he interviews Veena Sampatkumar, an IMG who completed multiple observerships and externships.  Learn how she secured a rotation experience within several months of moving to the U.S. You'll also discover the questions you should ask before you commit to an experience, the documents you need to prevent any delays in starting these rotations, and how to avoid pitfalls in the process. The episode ends with a discussion on how IMGs can make a favorable impression that leads to strong letters of recommendation.

International medical graduates (IMGs) seeking residency positions in the U.S. recognize the importance of securing strong letters of recommendation from rotations completed in the U.S. Unfortunately, many letters written by preceptors or attending physicians following observership experiences are suboptimal. These letters are often short, and lacking in the specifics and details residency programs seek.  Why does this happen, and what can IMGs do to maximize their chances of receiving strong letters of recommendation? In this episode, Dr. Samir Desai will show you that you have more power than you realize in influencing the content and strength of your letter. 

After applying for residency, many applicants send emails to programs expressing their interest, hoping that their communication will increase their chances of receiving interviews.  Unfortunately, these emails often fail to make the impact that applicants wish to make because of a variety of errors. In this episode, Dr. Samir Desai will discuss common mistakes that program directors encounter in email correspondence from applicants. Learn how to avoid these mistakes so that you can make a favorable impression - one that says to the program director that "This is someone I must interview."

The challenges and demands of medical school can affect the relationships medical students have with their loved ones. In this podcast, Dr. Desai interviews Sarah Epstein, author of the book "Love in the Time of Medical School." Learn how Sarah and her now-husband Brian were able to overcome the challenges and demands of medical school to maintain their healthy relationship. Featuring Sarah's own story as well her knowledge gained from other medical school couples, this podcast will leave you with specific strategies to care for your relationship.    

Are you interviewing for internal medicine residency? If so, you must prepare for the common question, "Do you have any questions for me about our program?" In this podcast, Dr. Samir Desai will show you how to ask questions that will give you important information about the program while helping you to stand out from other applicants.

Are you interviewing for family medicine residency? If so, you must prepare for the common question, "Do you have any questions for me about our program?" In this podcast, Dr. Samir Desai will show you how to ask questions that will give you important information about the program while helping you to stand out from other applicants.

Join Dr. Samir Desai as he discusses how to develop a compelling and powerful answer to the interview question, "What discovery do you think has had the greatest impact on medicine?" 

Are you interviewing for anesthesiology residency? If so, you must prepare for the common question, "Do you have any questions for me about our program?" In this podcast, Dr. Samir Desai will show you how to ask questions that will give you important information about the program while helping you to stand out from other applicants.   

A number of medical schools and health professions programs have replaced the traditional interview with the multiple mini interview or MMI in the admissions process. In this episode, Dr. Desai shares three major mistakes that applicants commonly make during the MMI, and provides advice on how to avoid them.

Medical students have made important contributions to relief efforts during and following disaster situations all across the world. In this episode, Dr. Samir Desai discusses the impact students have had on those affected. You'll learn how you can get involved through efforts in your local area or by joining teams traveling to disaster-stricken areas. 

Talented medical students with a track record of achievement outside the classroom as undergraduates sometimes have difficulty doing the same during medical school. Join Dr. Samir Desai as he tells the story of how one student found himself in this situation just a few months before it was time to apply for medical school. You'll discover why this happens, and the consequences of a relatively bare application for two groups of residency applicants: Students with "lower" USMLE Step 1 scores Students with "higher" USMLE Step 1 scores  

In Part 2 of Lessons Learned from Medical School in China, join Dr. Samir Desai as he explores how to deliver culturally competent care to Chinese Americans through an interview with Dr. Hassan Raza. Having grown up in the U.S., Dr. Raza attended medical school in China. With this background, Dr. Raza offers his unique perspectives on important topics with respect to Chinese Americans, including coining, cupping, acupuncture, and end-of-life care. 

Students considering attending medical school in the Caribbean have tough choices to make. Among the questions which need answers: Which school should I attend? What is the quality of the preclinical education, and how well will I be prepared for the USMLE exams? Where can I do my clinical rotations in the U.S., and what are the quality of these experiences? How do graduates fare in the residency match? In this episode, we'll answer these questions as it relates to the Ross University School of Medicine. Join Dr. Samir Desai as he interviews Dr. Nithin Natwa, a recent Ross graduate. 

A lack of shadowing can affect your chances of gaining admission to medical school. Learn about one student's struggles to find shadowing opportunities, and what he did to overcome obstacles in the process. Join Dr. Samir Desai as he offers a very specific approach to help students land shadowing positions. 

Imagine leaving the United States to attend medical school in China, not knowing a single word of Mandarin Chinese or being particularly fond of Chinese food. How hard would it be to adapt? In this Q & A, Dr. Hassan Raza describes what it was like to attend medical school in China, the lessons that he learned from Chinese patients, and how these lessons continue to influence the way in which he delivers care to patients in the U.S.

Hear from a patient whose life changed unexpectedly and dramatically late one night. As she tells her story, you'll learn about her interactions with physicians. Join Dr. Samir Desai in this powerful interview which will serve as a reminder that what we say and how we say it can have a significant impact on our patients. 

Premedical students are often told that shadowing is important to the medical school admissions committee. How important is shadowing? Why is it important? Is it absolutely necessary? Can you get into medical school without shadowing? Join Dr. Samir Desai as he discusses the answers to these important questions. 

How can students make a favorable impression during the neurology rotation? Join Drs. Rajani Katta and Samir Desai as they provide specific recommendations for success.

Do medical schools ever rescind or revoke medical school admissions offers? Dr. Samir Desai discusses 6 reasons why this could happen.

Join Dr. Samir Desai as he discusses how to develop a compelling and powerful answer to the interview question, "What discovery do you think has had the greatest impact on medicine?" This was a question some applicants were asked at UT Houston Medical School last year but has also been asked at other schools across the country.

Join Dr. Samir Desai as he provides tips to impress during the UT Southwestern Medical School Interview. He also discusses powerful ways to answer the question "What do you like to do for fun?". Although the question seems innocent and lighthearted, many applicants answer the question poorly. Learn how to answer it well at UT Southwestern and other schools. 

In Part 2 of Anesthesiology Rotation Success, Dr. Rajani Katta and Dr. Samir Desai offer additional tips for rotation success with a focus on interactions with patients and attending physicians.

Join Dr. Samir Desai as he presents a framework for answering an interview question several of his clients were asked during their UT San Antonio medical school interview in 2016 - the Jehovah's Witness patient that is bleeding but refusing blood transfusion.

The medical school interview is the most important factor used by schools in the admissions process. In this podcast, Dr. Samir Desai shows applicants how to stand out and make a favorable impression during the Texas A & M medical school interview. 

How can medical students succeed during the anesthesiology rotation? Dr. Rajani Katta and Dr. Samir Desai offer specific advice to help students stand out. 

Join Dr. Samir Desai as he interviews Arvind Mallik, Managing Partner of KMF Investments, an investment advisory firm that he co-founded in 2008. Over the years, Arvind has provided financial advice to many physicians. In this episode, he shares some very important financial lessons.  This podcast is provided for general information only and should not be construed as a solicitation or as personal investment advice.

In Part 2 of Emergency Medicine Rotation Success, Dr. Rajani Katta and Dr. Samir Desai provide additional tips to help students make a great impression during the emergency medicine rotation. 

Learn how to do well on your emergency medicine rotation. Dr. Rajani Katta and Dr. Samir Desai present detailed advice to help you make a strong impression on faculty and residents.

What does it take to match into dermatology? Dr. Rajani Katta and Dr. Samir Desai discuss the residency selection process. Learn how to find a mentor, identify research opportunities, make a powerful impression during dermatology rotations, and much more. 

Join Dr. Samir Desai and Dr. Rajani Katta as they discuss the obstetrics and gynecology residency selection process. How do programs screen applications? Should you do senior electives in the specialty? What about away electives? You'll find the answers to these questions and more. 

Your performance on the emergency medicine rotation is important to residency programs. In this episode, Dr. Desai and Dr. Katta discuss the importance of the EM rotation grade and the Standardized Letter of Evaluation. What's in this letter, and how you can you demonstrate the qualities and skills highly valued by EM residency programs?

Competition for anesthesiology resident positions has intensified in recent years. Dr. Samir Desai and Dr. Rajani Katta discuss what applicants can do to maximize their chances of success in the residency match.

How can medical students locate research opportunities? In this episode, Drs. Desai and Katta review strategies.