85. Tips on Networking for IMGs - Following up With Dr. Nina Snowden!

In the age of the virtual residency application process, it may seem like your networking options are limited as an IMG, but Dr. Nina Snowden is back to remind you that the world is your oyster.

Keep listening to find out how you can take a page from her book as you write your own medical success story!

How do you get started with networking toward your residency application?

Dr. Snowden used platforms such as Match a Resident and Residency Explorer to get an early start, learn more about her programs of interest and narrow down her options before beginning to apply and network.

What should your emails to program directors contain?

• Ensure that your email address contains your first and last name.  A good idea is to create a separate email just for this purpose.
• State your purpose clearly and succinctly.
• Be specific and intentional.
• Ask direct questions.

How important are research and publications when applying and networking as an IMG?

While research is generally important, it is not always a critical determining factor as to whether a physician will get accepted into a residency program.

If you have the research opportunities, make the best of them. If you don’t, it’s not the end of the world!

What are the best ways for IMGs to boost applications despite failures and gaps?

• Clinical experience is always a sure way to make you a more palatable applicant.
• Networking is the name of the game! You should pitch yourself as though you are a business in order to complete the “transaction” of landing your dream residency.

Is attending Student National Medical Association (SNMA) conferences beneficial?

Dr. Snowden attended the SNMA conference and ended up meeting her future program director there! She was able to introduce herself and network, thereby improving her chances of matching within that program.

Do elective rotations after application opening date count?

It’s good to have these elective rotations for your graduation requirements, however, the people reviewing your applications will probably not get a chance to see them within this timeframe.

What are some practical ways to network during rotating at a hospital?

Just show up and demonstrate your winning personality and killer work ethic. Excellence during rotations gives you good leverage when networking with program directors.

Want to hear more about Dr. Snowden’s story? You can find her full podcast episode here!

Listen to this full episode on Apple, Spotify & Google Podcasts.

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