Step 1: Explore the Specialty
Before you pursue a career in Dermatology, it's important to be well informed about the specialty. We've put together a great collection of articles and resources which are essential reading for the aspiring dermatologist.
These articles will give you a better idea of the pros and cons of a career in the field, trends in the specialty, and hot-topic issues for trainees.
Step 2: Review Dermatology Match Data
Dermatology is a highly competitive specialty.
"Each year, approximately 350 applications are submitted to the Yale Dermatology Residency Program; and approximately 30-35 candidates will be invited to interview," writes the Yale University Department of Dermatology.
Dermatology-Charting Outcomes in the Match for U.S. MD 2018
National Resident Matching Program, Charting Outcomes in the Match: U.S. Allopathic Seniors, 2018. National Resident Matching Program, Washington, DC 2018.
National Resident Matching Program, Charting Outcomes in the Match: U.S. Osteopathic Seniors, 2018. National Resident Matching Program, Washington, DC 2018.
Dermatology-Charting Outcomes in the Match for IMGs 2018
National Resident Matching Program, Charting Outcomes in the Match for International Medical Graduates, 2018. National Resident Matching Program, Washington, DC 2018.
Step 3: Understand Residency Selection Criteria
To maximize your chances of matching with your first-choice residency program in dermatology, you must become well informed as early as possible.
In particular, you need to know the criteria residency programs use to select residents. We recommend beginning with the following resources:
Dermatology-2018 NRMP Program Director Survey
National Resident Matching Program, Data Release and Research Committee: Results of the 2018 NRMP Program Director Survey. National Resident Matching Program, Washington, DC. 2018.
Check out these other recommended resources
Step 4: Develop your Strategy for Success
As competition for positions in the dermatology residency match intensifies, it's more important than ever to have in place the "right" strategy for success. To develop the optimal strategy, use our book, The Successful Match. It's been designated recommended or required reading by the Association of American Medical Colleges, American Medical Women's Association, and numerous allopathic and osteopathic medical schools. AMSA wrote the book "provides the medical student reader with detailed preparation for the matching process." For more powerful information, sign up for our weekly update.
Step 5: Make the Most of your Preclinical Years
The preclinical years of medical school are important for students considering a career in dermatology. "In schools with non-pass/fail grading systems, high grades may be an important factor in class ranking for nomination to the Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) Honor Society and for the residency application," writes Dr. Ali Alikhan. "Additionally, because the vast majority of dermatology applicants are outstanding, there is no need to take students with low basic science grades."
Step 6: Apply for Scholarships and Awards
Shailee Patel extended her medical education by two years so that she could immerse herself in dermatology research. She was recognized for the quality of her work by multiple organizations, garnering a total of 12 honorable distinctions.
“Every student who spent a year doing research in our program has won one or more awards, but Shailee’s success is exceptional,” said Dr. Marjana Tomic-Canic, Professor of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.
Winning medical school scholarships and awards can provide a major boost to your residency application, and set you apart from your peers. Awards can be placed in the application, MSPE (Dean's Letter), letters of recommendation, and CV. We have found that interviewers often ask about awards during residency interviews.
Step 7: Assess your USMLE Step 1 Score or COMLEX 1 Score
Step 8: Strive for Success During Clerkships, Observerships and Externships
Step 9: Prepare a Powerful Residency Application
Step 10: Develop a Powerful Personal Statement
Step 11: Deliver an Impressive Interview Performance
What if I didn't match?
If you were unsuccessful during your initial match cycle, you'll need to sit down with your dean or advisor to review your match strategy. In planning your reapplication, each of the steps above becomes even more important.
For those who seek additional expert assistance, we can provide that. Dr. Desai has had significant experience in helping re-applicants match successfully.
This is provided via a Strategy for Success Session. Dr. Desai will perform a comprehensive review of your credentials, assess your strengths and weaknesses, and provide you with a specific plan to implement tailored to your unique situation.