Dermatologists of Tomorrow Scholarship

Presented by Clinique & SOCSF

Program Overview

The Skin of Color Society Foundation (SOCSF), in partnership with Clinique, is proud to introduce the Dermatologists of Tomorrow Scholarship presented by Clinique & SOCSF. This initiative is designed to provide financial support and mentorship to medical students who aspire to pursue careers in dermatology and are committed to health equity.

This initiative aims to contribute to the pursuit of health equity and address health disparities for underserved, underrepresented, and marginalized groups by increasing the number of dermatologists who will prioritize care for these patients.

The Dermatologists of Tomorrow Scholarship (DOTS) program was officially launched at the 21st Annual SOCS Scientific Symposium on March 6, 2025. Through this collaboration, SOCSF and Clinique will provide scholarship support and mentorship to a projected 100 medical students over 3 years.

Program Objectives

• To provide financial support for medical students to support their educational endeavors and expenses incurred when applying to dermatology residency.
• To broaden access to the specialty of dermatology.
• To boost the number of individuals in the field of dermatology who are committed to serving underserved, underrepresented, and marginalized populations. 
• To cultivate scholars who not only successfully match into dermatology programs, but also develop into future dermatology leaders who are committed to health equity.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Dermatologists of Tomorrow Scholarship presented by Clinique & SOCSF, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Medical Student Membership: Must be an active member of the Skin of Color Society (SOCS).

Residency Path: Planning to submit an ERAS application for dermatology residency in the current application cycle.

Medical School: Currently enrolled in a U.S.-based medical school as a third-year going into fourth year.

Commitment to Health Equity:  Applications are open to medical students, particularly those with financial need, and are encouraged from those with a demonstrated commitment to serving underserved, disadvantaged, and marginalized populations.

Academic Excellence: Demonstrated academic achievement, as evidenced by a strong CV and recommendation letters.

Financial Need: Must exhibit financial need to support the dermatology residency application process.

Awardee Expectations

Use of Funds: Scholarship funds are intended for dermatology residency-related expenses such as applications, away rotations, travel, conference registration, interview attire, and professional society memberships.

Active SOCS Membership: Maintain active membership in SOCS throughout the scholarship period, including transitioning from Medical Student to Resident membership.

Participation in Surveys: Complete program-related surveys to provide insights and feedback about the scholarship experience.

Awardee Report: Submit a 500-word report detailing the impact of the scholarship on career development, especially regarding dermatology for skin of color.

Attendance at SOCS Symposium: Awardees are highly encouraged to attend the Scientific Symposium in the year following their award. An additional travel stipend will be provided to cover associated costs.

Testimonial Contribution: Provide testimonials for SOCS newsletters or other platforms, sharing how the scholarship supported your path in dermatology.

Residency Match Notification: Notify SOCS once matched into a dermatology residency and join the SOCS alumni network for ongoing mentorship and community engagement.

Participation in Alumni Network: Awardees are encouraged to actively participate in the alumni network, fostering mentorship and sharing experiences with new recipients.

Required Documents:

✔ Completed Application Form

✔ Personal Statement
Outline your career goals and dedication to dermatology with a focus on underserved, disadvantaged, and marginalized populations.

✔ Curriculum Vitae (CV)

✔ Two Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
From individuals who can speak to your teamwork, collaboration, and leadership potential.

✔ Letter of Enrollment & Good Standing
Official confirmation from your U.S. medical school.

✔ Step 1 Transcript

✔ Official Medical School Transcript

Start preparing now to ensure your application is complete when the call for applications opens!