Mentee: Vivian Iloabuchi
Mentor: Ruth Jobarteh-Williams, MD
I am thankful for the opportunity to have participated in the 2024–2025 Skin of Color Society (SOCS) Mentorship Program. This was an incredibly meaningful and affirming experience during a critical stage in my medical training. As a third-year medical student thinking of how to balance my clinical rotations with my interest in dermatology, this program provided timely mentorship, expanded my professional network, and deepened my commitment to equity in dermatologic care.
Although I was not able to meet my mentor in person, our virtual conversations were thoughtful and practical. Dr. Jobarteh-Williams offered strategic advice on applying for away rotations, emphasized the importance of applying early, and shared how to demonstrate sustained interest in my home program. I also appreciated her encouragement around my growing interest in pediatric dermatology as I was able to share my project ideas and she affirmed their relevance within the field. Additionally, she advised me to be proactive in networking, especially at conferences. She encouraged me to identify people I wanted to meet well in advance and schedule one-on-one meetings before arriving.
Dr. Jobarteh-Williams also connected me to her colleagues in academia and I got the chance to meet them at conferences like the 2024 Skin of Color Update and the 2025 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting. These experiences allowed me to feel rejuvenated and continue putting my best foot forward. Listening to experts share their clinical experiences, research, and personal journeys made a lasting impression. I was especially moved by conversations around gaps in care for patients with skin of color and the innovative work being done to address them. I also had the opportunity to meet like-minded peers, which further expanded my perspective on the variety of ways to explore my interest in dermatology.
Overall, this program helped solidify my interest in pursuing a dermatology career rooted in advocacy, mentorship, and health equity. I’m deeply grateful to the Skin of Color Society for creating spaces where underrepresented trainees can find guidance, connection, and inspiration. I look forward to remaining engaged with SOCS for years to come.