Mentorship Beyond the Match

Your Strategic & Supportive Guide to Navigating the Dermatology Match

Perfect Match is more than a guide to matching into dermatology—it's a mentorship movement in book form.


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ABOUT AUTHOR

Dr. Amy McMichael

Amy McMichael, MD is an academic dermatologist who loves the intersection of mentoring and encouraging learners of color to strive for success in medicine. She spends her workdays seeing patients, performing research, and teaching and her free time with her family and friends. She loves to travel for work or play and can be found reading a new book each week and thinking about new projects focused on alopecia research.

Perfect Match

Your Blueprint for Residency Success in Dermatology

Written by Dr. Amy McMichael, a respected leader and mentor in the field, this book combines expert guidance with heartfelt encouragement. It’s especially powerful for students from underrepresented backgrounds, offering honest insights and actionable strategies for overcoming barriers, building confidence, and thriving in a competitive specialty.

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Proven Strategies

Learn how to excel in rotations, research, and interviews with tips straight from a seasoned dermatology program leader.

Mentorship

Discover how to find, nurture, and benefit from meaningful mentor–mentee relationships that support your long-term growth.

Insider Insights

Get an authentic look into what it takes to succeed in one of the most competitive medical specialties.

As Featured In

Dermatology Residency Demographics

Recent data indicate progress in dermatology residency diversity, with an increase in the number of underrepresented applicants; however, significant gaps in representation remain.

SF
Steven R. Feldman, M.D., Ph.D.
★★★★★

A valuable guide for students and mentors alike.

Perfect Match delivers more than just practical tips for securing a competitive residency—it’s a deeply personal and empowering roadmap for life and career growth. Drawing on 30 years as an academic dermatologist, 12 years as a Program Director, and 11 years as department chair, Dr. Amy McMichael offers clear-eyed advice and wisdom shaped by her lived experience as a woman of color navigating and transforming systems of bias.

Professor of Dermatology, Pathology and Social Sciences & Health Policy, Wake Forest University School of Medicine
BS
Dr. Brianna De Souza, MD, FAAD
★★★★★

Mentorship meets mission.

In Perfect Match, Dr. Amy McMichael redefines mentorship as both a relationship and a responsibility. With compassion, candor, and strategic insight, she shares actionable guidance that empowers both mentors and mentees to grow with purpose. This book is a call to lead with intention—and an essential read for anyone committed to uplifting the next generation of physician leaders.

Dermatologist, mentee and colleague of Dr. McMichael
JJ
Joseph Jorizzo, MD, FAAD
★★★★★

Pearls of wisdom from one of dermatology’s finest.

No one is better suited to author this indispensable guide than Dr. Amy McMichael. Her groundbreaking contributions to dermatology are matched only by her unwavering commitment to mentoring. Perfect Match is packed with the practical advice and heartfelt encouragement she’s shared with countless learners throughout her distinguished career.

Professor and Founding Chair, Department of Dermatology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine
ST
Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD
★★★★★

Written by the perfect physician for the next generation.

The Perfect Match could only be written by someone as accomplished and generous as Dr. Amy McMichael. With joy and purpose, she has mentored hundreds of students from underrepresented backgrounds, offering advice rooted in experience, empathy, and excellence. Her wisdom is a legacy—and this book is her gift to the future of medicine.

President, American Academy of Dermatology (2025–2026)

Strengthen Mentor

Mentee Relationships

Residency Interviews

With candor and clarity, Dr. McMichael speaks directly to students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, who may feel overwhelmed, unseen, or unsure of how to shine in competitive fields.

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A Dermatology Mentor’s Guide

  • Residency Roadmap

    Follow a clear, actionable plan that breaks down every stage of the dermatology match process.

  • Empowerment

    Learn how to build supportive networks and find mentors who champion your success.

  • Personal Growth

    Explore how to develop the confidence, mindset, and leadership skills needed to thrive.

What You'll Learn:

  • Create a standout application that showcases your unique abilities
  • Approach interviews with poise and genuine self-expression
  • Design a personalized timeline for your application journey
  • Thrive in research and practical experiences
  • Foster valuable relationships with guides and educators
  • Steer clear of typical pitfalls that hinder progress
  • Perfect the craft of writing a compelling personal narrative
  • Establish a support network to achieve your professional aspirations

Break Barriers, Match With Confidence

Dermatology doesn’t have to feel out of reach. Perfect Match blends expert advice and lived mentorship to guide you past obstacles and toward your ideal residency.

A Mentor’s Wisdom for Future Dermatologists

In Perfect Match, Dr. Amy McMichael shares the knowledge she’s gained through years of mentoring students and leading in academic dermatology. This practical and inspiring guide covers everything from application strategies to overcoming self-doubt and bias. Whether you're just starting your journey or preparing to apply, this book is your trusted companion in becoming the dermatologist you’re meant to be.