Fellow Spotlight: Erin McClure

Each year the UW Division of Dermatology welcomes medical student and post-graduate fellows from across the country to experience our world-class clinical, research and learning environments.

As our 2022-23 cohort near the end of their training, our fellows reflect on their time at UW Dermatology and look ahead to the next chapter in their careers.

Erin McClure
Clinical Research Fellow — Nghiem Lab

What are your post-fellowship plans?

I am returning to medical school to complete my fourth year at the University of South Florida.

What are some of your career goals?

I am applying to dermatology this year and my interests include rheumatology dermatology, oncology dermatology, and pediatric dermatology. My goal is to work at an academic institution, where I could help train the next generation of physicians.

What did you enjoy most about your fellowship experience?

The connections I made with UW staff and faculty. I not only gained exposure to a broad spectrum of dermatology (oncology, rheumatology, blistering diseases, hair loss, pediatric, etc.) I got to work closely with a multidisciplinary team ranging from pharmacists to surgeons, and I am grateful for the glimpse each one of these health care providers gave me into their career. I have a deeper appreciation for the full breadth of care our patients experience, and I am more confident than ever that dermatology is the right fit for me.

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

I’m proud of the skin health donation drive that I initiated and lead. I gathered donations from private practice dermatology to skin care brands. Ultimately, product was donated to the underserved communities that I grew up in, including Kent Community Partners, Sea Mar community health centers, and local shelters.

Who were your mentors and how did they support you?

I am privileged to have found many mentors at UW. Dr. Nghiem is first and foremost, as he demonstrated his confidence in my abilities through bringing me on to his team to support his clinic and research. I have also found mentors in Drs. Moshiri, Park, Vale, Shinohara, Vary, Simpson, Read, and Valaas. Each person has taken the time to teach me about their profession. They have helped me navigate residency applications and brought me onto research opportunities. I am grateful to have found such a wonderful and supportive group of people.

What is one unexpected thing you learned as a fellow?

I was surprised to learn the impact I have on patient care. My position is 100% funded by patient donations, affording me the opportunity to work as a patient advocate. Merkel cell carcinoma is a tricky disease that requires a multidisciplinary team, which is challenging for patients to navigate on their own. I am by the patients’ sides, each step of the way, and I will always treasure the difference I have made in their lives.

Fun aspect of training or a favorite memory?

One of my favorite memories is of a patient who spends his spare time working as a mall Santa Claus. He would always come to clinic dressed as Santa, with a red rucksack, handing out candy canes. He is a special reminder to never take life too seriously, and to find joy in the little things.