Hello, and welcome to IMG Medical Doctors.
I’m Dr. Ray Makar, and like you, I’m an international medical graduate.
I graduated from medical school in 1982 and practiced as a dermatologist in Egypt for 20 years. I loved my specialty and my patients. In 2003 I moved to the United States to start a new chapter, and that meant starting the long road every foreign doctor knows well: ECFMG certification, the USMLE, and the Match.
I studied hard and passed the USMLE with high scores. But I made one decision I want every IMG reading this to learn from: I applied only for dermatology, one of the most competitive specialties in the US, and I didn’t apply for anything else. I didn’t match.
A high score is not enough on its own. US clinical experience, strong letters, a smart specialty choice and a realistic application strategy matter just as much. I learned that the hard way, so you don’t have to.
While I waited for the Match, I started tutoring other students and doctors preparing for the USMLE, and I discovered how much I love teaching. Since then I’ve helped many medical students and doctors from around the world through my practice questions, books and online groups.
Why I built this site
The path to practicing medicine in the US is confusing, expensive and changes every year. On this site I share clear, up-to-date guidance on:
- ECFMG certification and the USMLE
- The Match and ERAS for IMGs
- Getting US clinical experience
- Visas, licensing and new pathways for foreign doctors
- Choosing a specialty and building a strong application
Whether you’re just starting Step 1 or preparing for your first Match, I’m glad you’re here. I hope my experience helps you reach your goal faster and with fewer mistakes than I made.
Welcome to the journey.
Dr. Ray Makar