Hey everyone!  I want to share my experience being an IMG from Venezuela trying to get into Internal Medicine in the US.  First of all, I want to say that it is possible and that YOU can do it!!  But yes, it is hard work; and, for that you will need some help.  Since the beginning my advisors became my friends and my most reliable source of information for everything — From anatomy, to UWorld Step 1, to financial issues, to finally working on my personal statement and submitting my application!  To Duane and Ravi, I just can say, "THANK YOU!"

I met Dr. Ravi in 2013 when I started my preparation for my USMLE Step 1.  I didn't have any idea how to study.  Even the ECFMG registration was overwhelming for me.  He was really helpful.  He helped me in every step.  I had monthly meetings with him to check on my progress.  He was always courteous and respectful.  He found the way to explain to me those topics that were really difficult to understand.  He made draws, graphics, or concept maps to make things easier.  I always felt relief after our meetings.  He not only helped me through Step 1, he helped me until the end – until I finished all the Steps.  He always had good advice.  I think I couldn't have had a better medical advisor.

Duane helped me through the whole process, since the very first day, giving me advice about how to start my preparation.  Then he helped me with the personal statement and interview preparation.  Every time he had the right words for me, encouraging me to keep working hard.

I am an international medical graduate, and I matched into a pediatric residency in the USA in 2019.  I had an opportunity to study with Duane Hill for 2 years in test prep courses (Step 1, Step 2CK, and Step 2CS) and for half a year in interview season.  Duane is the mentor who understands very well the matching process in the USA.  With his guidance, I could make a professional CV to apply for observerships and my ERAS application.  He also instructed me how to perform the interview professionally and successfully.  During the interview season, he answered promptly and enthusiastically all my questions and worries.  He reviewed my credentials carefully and gave me very useful instruction on how to choose the letters of recommendation, how to follow up with the programs after the interview.  He also recommended precisely things not to do that could negatively affect my application.  Duane is a great, experienced, and professional resource that IMGs can trust to get a successful MATCH result.