What if your first words didn’t come until age 3, and now you’re a surgeon who gives others their voice? Born with a speech disorder, mislabeled, and nearly written off, Dr. Joshua Wright, a Jamaican IMG, rose to become valedictorian of his medical school class, a Rhodes Scholar finalist, and an Otolaryngology head and neck surgery resident at Duke University.

He shares how missing the Rhodes Scholarship turned out to be life-changing, why he chose ENT despite the 0–1% IMG match rates on average, and how childhood shame became fuel for both his clinical career and advocacy efforts. 

Dr. Wright offers practical advice for other IMGs aspiring to match into competitive specialties, highlighting the necessity of research, clinical experience, and a well-rounded understanding of personal goals. This episode isn’t just inspirational, it’s unforgettable. It's a must-hear blueprint for IMGs who want to pursue specialties with discouraging match rates. Listen now!

00:00 Introduction 

00:54 Welcome to the IMG Residency Match Podcast

01:35 Meet Dr. Joshua Wright

02:52 Joshua's Medical Journey and Inspirations

03:30 Childhood and Early Interests

03:56 Discovering Medicine Through Motorsports

04:16 Culinary Arts Aspirations

05:13 Choosing ENT Over Orthopedics

06:51 Personal Connection to ENT

08:50 Advocacy and Overcoming Challenges

16:26 Family Support and Achievements

19:40 The Match Process and Odds for IMGs

20:54 The Odds for IMGs in ENT

21:05 Sponsor Message: IMG Residency Match Application Accelerator

21:25 Advice for International Medical Graduates

22:47 The Importance of Hard Work and Excellence

24:34 Understanding the Match Process

26:57 Navigating Research Opportunities

32:06 The Role of Support Systems

32:27 Joshua's Residency Experience at Duke

33:24 Maintaining Motivation and Building Networks

36:38 Joshua's Legacy and Final Thoughts

39:47 Closing Remarks and Call to Action