MetaCast #37 - What Got Him Into Categorical General Surgery in Miami with Rodrigo Calmet MD

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In MetaCast #37, we host Rodrigo Calmet, a Peruvian IMG who matched into a categorical General Surgery residency at Florida International University in Miami, one of the most competitive paths for international medical graduates in the United States.

In this episode, Rodrigo shares the full story behind his journey, from medical school in Peru and surgical rotations during the pandemic to navigating the USMLE process, building meaningful research experience, and developing the relationships that ultimately helped him match into surgery in the U.S. He also discusses the importance of timing, strategic away rotations, clinical exposure, and how research became a major turning point in strengthening his application.

We also explore the realities of matching into General Surgery as an IMG, including Step 2 preparation, the role of mentorship, the pressure of interview season, and what programs are truly looking for beyond scores and publications. Rodrigo explains why applicants should avoid reducing themselves to statistics and instead focus on becoming teachable, resilient, and authentic throughout the process.

Creators and Guests

Host

Rhanderson Cardoso

Clinical Cardiologist and Cardiac Imaging @BrighamWomens @harvardmed | Former cardiology fellow @hopkinsheart @ciccaronecenter

Guest

Rodrigo Calmet MD

PGY - 1 General Surgery

What is MetaCast?

The PodCast of the Meta-Analysis Academy!