Specialty Café
Specialty Café
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
Emergency Medicine Residency: The Reality Behind the Specialty
28 minutes Posted Jul 14, 2026 at 7:30 am.
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Is Emergency Medicine the right specialty for you?

In this episode of Specialty Café, host Henry Tran, a medical student at the University of Alberta, sits down with Dr. Prince Asare-Agbo (PGY5) from the University of Ottawa for an fullsome conversation about the realities of Emergency Medicine residency. From managing diagnostic uncertainty and rapid task switching to navigating shift work and burnout, Dr. Asare-Agbo shares what medical students don't always see during their Emergency Medicine rotations, and why humility, resilience, and teamwork are essential to thriving in the specialty.

Dr. Asare-Agbo shares not only his passion for EM, but equally values his strong realationships with his co-residents (now friends) and the amazing team he works with.

A big takeaway:  Remember to do what makes you happy and what makes you - YOU!... outside of medicine. 

Whether you're exploring Emergency Medicine, preparing for CaRMS or simply learning more about life as a resident, this episode offers practical advice, thoughtful career insights, and a 'lived experience' look at one of medicine's most dynamic specialties.

Specialty Café is the Royal College's podcast for medical students, featuring candid conversations that help trainees explore specialties, prep for CaRMS, build meaningful careers in medicine, and so much more! 

If you're participating in a Royal College accredited residency, don't forget to join as a Resident Affiliate. It's free and you can start claiming MOC credits right away. Click here to learn more.