Mentee Maria Cristina Vasquez-Machado, BS with mentor Sarika Ramachandran, MD
Yale University
Before starting the rotation, my goals were to strengthen my ability to recognize dermatologic conditions in patients with skin of color, with a particular focus on autoimmune and rheumatologic skin diseases. I also hoped to improve my clinical presentation skills and refine my dermatologic physical exam. I was looking forward to learning directly from faculty and residents while gaining exposure to a diverse patient population. This rotation not only met but exceeded my expectations. I made meaningful progress in every area I set out to develop.
Over the course of four weeks, I rotated through a wide range of specialty clinics, including rheumatologic dermatology, CTCL, dermato-oncology, autoimmune blistering diseases, and vulvar dermatology. I attended clinic daily and participated in all academic activities, including grand rounds and resident-led teaching sessions. I gained valuable exposure to how dermatology is practiced at Yale, which highlighted the program's innovative and collaborative approach to complex patient care. This experience broadened my clinical perspective and deepened my understanding of academic dermatology.
This experience would not have been possible without the immense support of my mentor, Dr. Ramachandra. Her daily commitment to mentorship had a lasting impact. She not only advocated for me throughout the rotation but also made sure I was actively involved and that my goals were met. She took time each day to walk me through her clinical reasoning and patient care approach. I came to deeply admire her as both a clinician and a person. Her thoughtful, compassionate, and culturally sensitive bedside manner is something I hope to carry with me throughout my own career.
One of the most valuable aspects of this observership was the opportunity to connect with the residents and gain genuine insight into the program. Through clinic, academic discussions, and informal conversations, I was able to learn more about the resident experience, the program's supportive culture, and the values that guide their training. Coming from Puerto Rico, where dermatology networking opportunities are limited by geography, this experience gave me access to a broader academic community. I received thoughtful feedback on my clinical and research skills, built connections with faculty and trainees, received feedback and advice about my residency application and left feeling inspired and excited about what lies ahead.
I am incredibly grateful to the Skin of Color Society for offering this observership program. Without this support, I would not have had access to these experiences, mentorship, or academic exposure. This opportunity created space for growth that would have otherwise been out of reach and has had a meaningful impact on my path toward academic dermatology. I look forward to paying this forward and continuing to advocate for equity in dermatologic education and care.