The Southern Medical Association’s IMG Support and Advocacy Ad Hoc Committee invites international medical graduates to participate in a series of webinars offering practical guidance for navigating the U.S. residency application and Match process.

This September, three consecutive Wednesday sessions will address key stages of the residency journey—from building a competitive application and developing strong application materials to preparing for interviews and navigating the Match. Each session begins at 12:00 pm Central.

Building a Competitive Residency Application

September 2, 2026 | 12:00 pm Central
Guest Speaker: Arsalan Z. Iqbal, MD
Register for the Sept. 2 Webinar

This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the U.S. residency application process, with particular attention to the challenges and opportunities faced by international medical graduates. Participants will learn how to strategically approach the application process, identify factors that strengthen their candidacy, and develop a well-rounded application that effectively communicates their experiences, accomplishments, and readiness for residency training.

About the Speaker: Dr. Iqbal is an Internal Medicine resident at Magnolia Regional Health Center and an international medical graduate with clinical research experience at the University of Mississippi and University of Michigan. A member of SMA’s IMG Support and Advocacy Committee, he is committed to mentoring and supporting IMGs pursuing residency training in the United States.

CV, Personal Statement, and Letters of Recommendation

September 9, 2026 | 12:00 pm Central
Guest Speaker: Samhitha Gundakaram, MD
Register for the Sept. 9 Webinar

This session will focus on three key components of the residency application: the curriculum vitae, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Participants will learn how to present their experiences effectively, develop a compelling personal narrative, and understand the role of strong letters of recommendation in supporting their candidacy. The session will also highlight common mistakes and practical strategies for creating a cohesive and professional application.

About the Speaker: Dr. Gundakaram is a PGY-3 Internal Medicine resident and member of SMA’s IMG Support and Advocacy Committee, where she leads the Mentorship and Networking Subcommittee. An international medical graduate, she also co-developed SMA’s Fellowship Forward Mentorship Program and has experience mentoring IMG applicants.

Interview Preparation and Match Strategy

September 16, 2026 | 12:00 pm Central
Guest Speaker: Amna Bint I. Munir, MD
Register for the Sept. 16 Webinar

This session will prepare applicants to navigate residency interviews and the subsequent Match process with confidence. Participants will learn strategies for effective interview preparation and communication, approaches to common and challenging interview questions, and professional follow-up. The session will also address rank-order list considerations and practical strategies for navigating the Match process as an international medical graduate.

About the Speaker: Dr. Munir is a PGY-3 Internal Medicine resident at North Alabama Medical Center and an international medical graduate. Through SMA’s IMG Support and Advocacy Committee, she has helped develop mentorship and educational initiatives for IMGs, including Fellowship Forward, and is leading efforts to develop Residency Forward.

These September webinars are part of SMA’s ongoing efforts to provide international medical graduates with practical education, mentorship, and resources as they pursue training and professional opportunities in the United States.