The Multiple Specialty Enigma: An IMG Perspective

Written by Thomas Jason S. Simon, MD

There truly is no “one-size-fits-all” in terms of navigating the Match. I went through medical school in the Philippines, intending to pursue Internal Medicine as a US-IMG. I did not complete any US rotations as a medical student, so after I graduated I was intent on finding opportunities to familiarize myself with the system and connect with mentors in the field. The plan seemed simple enough, and I felt that once these experiences were under my belt, applying to the Match would be straightforward! In reality, plans never go THAT smoothly, and this was certainly the case for me.

Between my graduate status and the pandemic, finding experiences was a challenge, let alone more coveted roles that allow true hands-on experience. Regardless, I was able to line up a few observerships. Between the time I returned home and entering into my first match cycle, I was able to gain some exposure to both Pediatrics and Internal Medicine.

I entered Match 2021, set on Internal Medicine and applied exclusively to that field using the letters I had gained. My goal at that time was to pursue training to fill a primary care or a hospitalist role. However, I wound up not matching, feeling the full force of anxiety and despair while trying to piece together ways to bolster my application. I resolved to do anything and everything to never feel that way again during Match Week. I reflected on what I needed to improve and realized during interviews that I lacked confidence and my replies were generic and rehashed. I needed to immerse myself further in experiences and find where I could be most effective.

For Match 2022, I reached out and connected incessantly to secure a rotation in Family Medicine and an incredible one year pre-residency position in Neurology. In these two experiences, I discovered certain values that I could see myself applying in multiple specialties. Continuity, for example, was something I found immensely valuable, along with patient education. Outreach was also an interest I found broadly applicable to different areas.

Eventually, I could see my future in either Neurology, Internal Medicine or Family Medicine which was a surprise to me, given the linear view I had been presented in the past with specialty exclusive approaches towards applying to residency. Thus, I applied to all three specialties this past cycle.

I found my personal statements to have similar themes, yet specific to each specialty. I interwove my new and old letters of recommendations. During interviews, I felt excited in telling my story, and how I could see myself becoming an excellent addition I was asked once whether I was only applying to that specific specialty, which I answered truthfully: as an IMG applying broadly is expected, yet I could see myself excelling in the field should I be given the opportunity to train. I would evidence certain scenarios that would fit perfectly with how I envision I would proceed in my career in that field. By the time I submitted my rank list, I knew that if I matched, I would be precisely where I was meant to be.

If you’ve read this far, I ended up matching Internal Medicine, back to my first chosen specialty, but with a whole new perspective. I encourage applicants to have an open mind in their specialty selection, as well as how they approach application season. We’re all going to be incredible doctors, and we are going to be such a resource to people wherever we land.

Feel free to contact me at jason_s122@yahoo.com and I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.