As a first-year medical student, start by making an appointment with your career advisor or student affairs dean in the Office of Medical Education to get advice on how to gain early exposure to dermatology, and seek out opportunities to get to know the dermatology faculty and residents in your school. Join the Dermatology Interest Group (DIG) at your medical school or start a chapter if you do not have one. You can find more information about DIG at their national website (derminterest.org). Run for an executive position in DIG so that you can develop a close relationship with residents and faculty involved with DIG. Use this platform to learn about community-based activities sponsored by the interest group, such as the SPOTS program (spotseducation.org). It is also helpful to identify medical students in the class above you who are planning to go into dermatology as well as students who recently matched into dermatology. These individuals can provide insight and helpful resources at your home institution. Moreover, attend Grand Rounds and local dermatology conferences when possible. This will help you to learn more about dermatology and become familiar with the faculty and residents. After some time of observation, you could identify a faculty member or resident to approach as a mentor. Inform your mentor(s) that you are interested in learning about research projects, case reports and volunteer experiences, and ask them to keep you in mind if they learn of any opportunities in these areas.
Keep in mind that Grand Rounds are generally open to medical students; however, at some institutions, smaller educational sessions (i.e. journal club, didactics) may also be open to medical students. It is best to ask before attending. Also, some institutions may have designated faculty career advisors who can provide you with advice and connect you with early opportunities. How to Obtain a Position in a Dermatology Residency Program Pathway to successfully match into dermatology MS1 MS2 MS3 MS4 DIGA Shadowing Volunteering DIGA Shadowing Volunteering Clinical Rotations LOR Scholarly activities Step 2 Application process Interview process Figure 1. Schematic representation for successfully matching into dermatology by year in medical school. Skin of Color Society | How to Obtain a Position in a Dermatology Residency Program 2 MS1 and MS2 years should be focused on exploring all areas of dermatology and getting to know the current faculty and residents. However, be mindful and do not be too aggressive.
Remember faculty are busy clinicians. If you reach out to a faculty member and do not get an immediate response, be patient. Wait at least two weeks before sending a polite follow-up email. This is also a great time to shadow a dermatologist to make sure dermatology is right for you. While shadowing, ask yourself “Can I do this for 40 years of my life?” Remember you are committing to a lifelong career so go into dermatology for well-explored reasons. Exploration, self-awareness and reflection are important aspects of choosing a career in dermatology. Additionally, be aware that there are various subspecialties within dermatology (i.e. general, pediatric, procedural, dermatopathology) and various practice settings (private vs. academic). Taking the time to shadow early on will help you understand if this is truly a field of interest and perhaps help narrow down a specific focus. Determining a subspecialty in dermatology early on is not expected; however, if you do have a particular interest within dermatology, you should explore it, as you may be asked to explain this interest during the interview process. As dermatology is a competitive field, it is a priority to focus on mastering the curriculum content and maintaining good academic standing. Aim for your personal best in your core academic curriculum and clinical rotations.
Alongside your institutional curriculum, you should study USMLE Step 1 “the Boards” exam material. Start practice questions early to help identify key concepts, along with understanding Step 1 question and answer formats.
Finally, develop your extracurricular interests and seek volunteer or leadership opportunities. You can participate in activities to help the underserved or reduce healthcare disparities. Consider volunteering at a local free clinic and exploring whether these clinics offer dermatology services with which you may become involved. Many programs are putting emphasis on a “culture of caring” in addition to clinical grades and USMLE Step 2 scores. Sustained community service is highly regarded by residency programs. If you do not have a home dermatology program or cannot identify a local mentor, seek a mentor through the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) (server.aad.org/mentorship/search/Default.aspx), the Skin of Color Society (skinofcolorsociety.org/about- socs), or the Women’s Dermatologic Society (WDS) mentorship program (womensderm.org/awards/award-programs/ mentorship-award-program).
This is the time to conduct research. It has been well documented that research experiences and publications are strongly associated with successfully matching, so it is important to prioritize this endeavor. Select a research project that is feasible to complete within this timeframe or that can be continued during your MS2 and MS3 years. Aim for your manuscripts to be accepted by a journal by September of your MS4 year, which is when your application for dermatology residency is due. Joining an already established project is a good start with a reasonable projected stop date to have time to prepare adequately for Step exams. If you commit to a research project - own it. Take initiative. Be responsive to your mentors, answer emails promptly, collaborate with other research personnel effectively, and gather all materials such as clinical tables, figures, clinical images and histopathology images efficiently. Anticipate what your team will need, perform tasks in advance and inform your supervisors of your progress often. Make sure to follow through on all tasks to completion. For novice writers, consider referencing material on the basics of medical writing (e.g. The Clinicians Guide to Medical Writing by Robert B. Taylor, etc). Discuss and construct a broad outline of goals and timeframe for your research project that explicitly align to your research mentor’s expectations.
Your research mentor should be able to provide you a letter of recommendation, so do an outstanding job. Remember, if the hypothesis is not proven, this is still worthy of a publication. Prior to starting the project, discuss the potential for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. Provide your mentor with a list of upcoming dermatology conferences that you think may be good opportunities to present your work. Many medical schools provide funding for their students to present research. If you are unable to identify a research project within dermatology, obtaining a publication in an alternate field may also be regarded well. Be able to explain this research interest and, if applicable, provide a brief but illustrative story of your transition to interest in dermatology or how your project may relate to dermatology.
Keep in mind, there is no magic number for scholarly activity projects to match into dermatology, but most of the applicants had five or more abstracts, presentations, or publications at the time of the application. This is also the time to shadow dermatologists and plan for MS2 year with a continued focus of USMLE Step exams. Depending on your interests and resources, consider global medical electives (some medical schools have a global medicine track) as there are opportunities to participate in dermatology focused clinics abroad.
MS2 year should be seen as a continuation of your MS1 agenda. Furthermore, if you did not decide until your second year of medical school that you wanted to pursue a career in dermatology, it is not too late. You can still spend time looking for mentorship opportunities and research projects in MS2, MS3, and MS4 years. During your MS2 year, it is important to dedicate time to be well-prepared for the USMLE Step 1 exam. This will help you solidify your pre-clinical medical school curriculum. Note that, previously, performing well on Step 1 was strongly associated with an increased chance of matching. Now that Step 1 is pass/fail, there may be more emphasis on Step 2 performance.
However, most dermatology residency programs now are committed to a holistic application review process, with exam scores only a part of the overall evaluation. We also encourage future UIM applicants to consider applying to the AAD Diversity Mentorship program. This program is primarily aimed at 3rd and 4th year medical students who desire additional mentorship. Mentors are encouraged to help with publications, letters of recommendation and guidance through the application process. Consider taking advantage of this program to use this time for your away rotations. Alternatively, this program can be completed in the summer of your MS1 and MS2 year to coordinate research and obtain early exposure to dermatology; however, the majority of recipients complete this program during their MS3 and MS4 years.
MS3 clinical rotations are critical. Residency program directors use recommendations and evaluations from this clinical year to ascertain your clinical abilities and ability to function well as a resident. Key components to clinical evaluations are working well with the team and taking ownership of your patients. Prepare for transition to clinical rotations by discussing expectations with upperclassmen and fellow classmates who completed rotations. Obtain feedback from your clinical preceptors early in the rotation and make meaningful strides to meet or exceed expectations. When planning for your rotations, consider starting with internal medicine and surgery to have a foundation upon which to build when working with the dermatology team on consults and in clinic. Plan to complete your first dermatology rotation at your home institution once you have had the bulk of your core clinical rotations. After completing a rotation at your home institution, seek feedback on your clinical performance to use for any potential away rotations.
In January and February of your MS3 year, you should begin to consider planning for away rotation applications through the Visiting Student Learning Opportunities (VSLO™) program. Many dermatology applicants complete 1-2 away rotations in the beginning of their fourth year of medical school (i.e. summer or fall of the year you are applying), though they are not required. You may apply for more than one rotation per time slot but be sure to withdraw additional applications once you have been assigned. Visit your local Office of Diversity and Inclusion to identify medical schools that offer specific rotations for UIM students. These programs may include supplemental funding.
Though completing an away rotation is not necessary, it may improve the likelihood that you match to the program at which you rotate. It is extremely important that you take this opportunity to get to know faculty. Schedule a meeting early on with the program director and/or chair to discuss your interest and possible research opportunities. Meetings are often scheduled by the department administrative assistant. This appointment is to introduce yourself and convey your interest in the field and the program. Attend the meeting with a printed version of your up- to-date curriculum vitae. Please keep in mind that some programs have many rotators and program directors and chairs are not able to meet individually with every student. During away rotations, dress professionally and make sure not to do things that may be portrayed negatively - do not spend time on your cell phone/ watch during clinic hours or conferences, do not perform procedures or interview patients without prior permission, do not complain or convey an impression of laziness or boredom.
Also, bring a clean white coat, arrive early every day to lecture and clinical responsibilities, and be able to present patients without reading verbatim from a cell phone or typed note. Be prepared to give a presentation on a topic of interest during grand rounds. If this is not required, you may offer to do so. In preparation for your home and away rotations, you can review the Basic Dermatology Curriculum on the AAD website (aad.org/member/education/residents/bdc).
Be comfortable using dermatological terms to describe the cutaneous exam, along with knowing the first line treatments for the most seen dermatological disorders such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, warts and skin cancer. Read about patients and dermatology cases you come across during your rotation. At the completion of your MS3 year, you should have scheduled your rotation at your home institution as well as your away rotation(s), if applicable. You should also have begun to think about 2 or 3 dermatology faculty members to ask for a strong recommendation letter. At least two letters from dermatologists is encouraged. As a third/fourth, many will obtain a letter from a faculty member during their internal medicine rotation, though a letter from a faculty member who can speak strongly about you as a person and a student is best. Complete all outstanding publications or prepare them for submission. Start your personal statement and allow time for several revisions. Your personal statement should describe specific experiences and anecdotes to illustrate your abilities and qualities that make you a good candidate. Skin of Color Society | How to Obtain a Position in a Dermatology Residency Program 4 Do not list accomplishments. Let your letters of recommendation toot your horn, not your personal statement. This is an opportunity to highlight your narrative and strengths that are not found easily in the rest of your application. The personal statement is an important component of the holistic review process because it allows the selection committee to better understand how your experiences and attributes will help you contribute to learning, patient care, and teaching. If possible, have your dermatology mentor and local dermatology resident review your personal statement. If you are genuinely interested in a specific program you can personalize your personal statement to that specific school detailing why you are interested in their program however program signaling through ERAS is the preferred way to demonstrate specific interest in a program. Some programs will have applicants fill out a secondary application where you may also get a chance to highlight why you want to attend that specific program. Be honest and submit the secondary application in a timely manner.
Towards the middle to end of MS3, schedule the USMLE Step 2 CK and CS exams. Given that Step 1 is pass/fail, it may be helpful to complete your Step 2 CK exam prior to applying. Many, but not all, residency programs require or prefer completion of USMLE Step 2 prior to submission of rank lists in February of your MS4 year.
Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) opens in July of your MS4 year. Reference the American Medical Association database on each residency program through Fellowship and Residency Interactive Electronic Database Access (FRIEDA) (ama-assn.org) prior to applying.
Programs start accepting applications in September with interviews typically taking place from November to early February. Upon completion of ERAS, some programs may require a supplemental application. This information is provided on ERAS or on the institutional website. Be sure to check the program website directly if it is not listed on ERAS. It is encouraged to submit your completed application early, and no later than the final day before residency programs may begin reviewing submissions on ERAS (specific dates may vary and be sure to check the ERAS website). The current deadline for the MSPE submitted by your school is October 1st.
Submitting applications to every program can be cost prohibitive. An application signaling system was started in 2023 that gives applicants 3 gold signals and 25 silver signals. These 28 signals are for the applicant to indicate which programs they are particularly interested in. There is a lower likelihood that applicants will receive interview invites at nonsignaled programs. For many dermatology applicants, applying to only the 28 signaled programs will likely be sufficient.
Applicants may consider applying to more programs (up to 40-50 programs), but applying widely (>60 programs) will likely not be of additional benefit. Please note that it is important to signal your home program and any away rotation programs if you are interested in them- they will not assume your interest. Apply some level of scrutiny when selecting programs, taking into consideration location, reputation and research opportunities. Be aware that some dermatology residencies have programs with special tracks, such as research or Internal Medicine/Dermatology joint residencies, which may require unique application considerations.
The cost of application fees and interview travel must be considered. If possible, begin saving for this early on in medical school to avoid taking on additional loans. Currently the interviews are being conducted virtually to help decrease the financial cost to applicants.
Prior to submitting your application, have your mentors review your application and personal statement. Ask for letters of recommendation prior to August 15. Who writes your letter and how well they know you is an important part of your application. Provide letter writers with your curriculum vitae, personal statement draft, and ERAS cover sheet. Ensure that several of your letter writers are academic clinicians. It is imperative to have a letter from dermatology faculty who knows you well. It may be helpful to have a letter from someone who is well known nationally, but only if they also know you well.
Most dermatology programs are advanced (or categorical) programs, meaning you are expected to begin your training after having completed a PGY-1 intern year. Generally, acceptable internships are in internal medicine, general surgery, pediatrics, family practice, obstetrics and gynecology, emergency medicine or a transitional year. The majority of dermatology residents complete an internship in internal medicine or a transitional year. While you may be focused on perfecting your dermatology application, keep in mind that your application for an internship will also require a personal statement, letters of recommendation and a careful consideration of where to apply. Often, the personal statement and letters of recommendation can be slightly adjusted such that they are eligible for both, however it is important to obtain individualized guidance on ensuring that your internship application is well-prepared.
Additionally, MS4 is generally the time when medical students are selected for membership into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. While not every school has a chapter, membership in this society is a factor that residency program directors may consider in interviewing and ranking candidates as it demonstrates a commitment to scholarship, leadership, professionalism, and service. While it is just one characteristic considered in a holistic review, membership to this honor society is a positive factor.
Complete mock interviews with at least one mentor priorto the actual interview. Look up commonly asked questions during residency interviews and practice them with your mock interviewer. Make sure you have a good answer for each question and ask your interviewer for guidance and constructive criticism on your demeanor, energy level, eye contact, body language, vocabulary, and content of your answers.
Know the program! Access the department website to get to know faculty and residents. Attend webinars that may be hosted by your programs of interest. Perform a literature search and familiarize yourself with faculty publications. Contact any upperclassmen who have interviewed at the program to get insight on the interview process. You can also contact the interview coordinators or department administrator(s) to get an idea of the activities during interview day. Of note, the interview coordinator is the person you will be interfacing with prior to and after your interview day. They are an important member of the program, and it is in your best interest to treat this person with the utmost consideration and respect.
In addition to knowing your interviewers be sure to know your application thoroughly. You can and likely will be asked questions on any aspect of your application.
Practice a list of commonly asked questions:
• Tell me about yourself.
• Why dermatology? Why our program? What are your goals?
• What are your strengths?
• What are your weaknesses?
• Tell me about your research?
• Tell me about an interesting patient?
• Who are your role models and why?
• What are your interests outside of dermatology?
• What questions do you have?
• What could you offer this program?
The publication How to Obtain an Orthopedic Residency (aaos.org/globalassets/about/diversity/how-to-obtain-an- orthopaedic-residency.pdf ) also has a list of questions to consider asking while on the interview trail. When answering the above questions try not to sound rehearsed or portray yourself as overconfident.
The Successful Match: Rules to Succeed in Residency Match authored by Drs. Rajani Katta and Samir P Desai is another resource. These authors also have a podcast as well as a section for dermatology applicants. Visit thesuccessfulmatch.com. Currently interviews are being conducted virtually.
Make sure you check your internet connection and computer camera in advance. Do not have anything distracting in thebackground, and ensure there is good lighting.
If interviews return to being in person in the future, plan to be 10 minutes early on your interview day. If possible, find the location prior to the interview. Again, pay attention to your appearance. A dermatology residency interview requires professional dress. Dress professionally. If you must question yourse lf then it is probably not a good choice to wear. The best choice is a comfortable suit and shoes without any flashy accessories. Be prepared for variable weather during the winter months. If you are flying, carry your interview clothes with you in case your checked baggage does not arrive in time.
With interviews being done virtually, many programs host a virtual meet-and greet with their residents prior to the interview day. Although this may be a more informal atmosphere, make sure you approach it as part of the interview process. Be an active participant in the session.
It is important to talk to residents from each program during your interview experience to get a better idea of the program. Remember, you are being interviewed throughout the process,from interacting with staff when scheduling the interview to speaking with residents at the very end of the interview day.
Always have questions prepared to ask of each interviewer. Do not speak to anyone in an overly-familiar way. You must be professional with everyone. If interviews return to in person, do not drink more than one glass of alcohol if it is offered in a welcome dinner.
Finally, be kind to your fellow applicants as these will be your potential classmates and peer colleagues in the future.
It is now advised that applicants do not write thank you letters or letters of intent to programs after the interview.
Begin the ranking process immediately after your interview.Make a list of pros and cons that will help you keep track of programs once you have completed your interviews.
Given the competitive nature of the dermatology match, think about what you would do if you were not to match. Always have a plan B. Many go on to complete their preliminary or transitional year and then re-apply.
A research year can also be taken to build on scholarly activity and strengthen an application before re-applying. Others may consider dual-applying in another specialty (this would need to be planned in advance of ERAS submissions, with preparation of two applications). Consider what plan is right for you. As a physician, there are many fascinating careers available to you. Everyone doesn’t match in dermatology, but all students have the opportunity for a fulfilling career in medicine.
For those who have come to a decision to pursue dermatology residency later in their medical school career or identified a gap in their scholarly exploration, you may consider a gap/ glide year. This should be considered a time for growth and exploration of the field of dermatology both in its clinical arenas (diseases and treatment paradigms) along with the areas of scholarly discovery currently in the field. This should be balanced with the extended time of delaying graduation, along with additional financial considerations.
A lack of diversity exists in the field of dermatology due to many factors. However, we hope understanding and knowing the application process in detail might provide useful information for potential URM candidates who might consider dermatology as a specialty (Figure 1). There are growing opportunities to develop and explore interest in the specialty of dermatology through mentorship, publications, podcasts, and online resources. A diverse workforce has been shown to provide better care and reduce healthcare disparities; therefore, diversity should be a goal for the field of dermatology as well. Dermatology is a fascinating field of medicine and can be very fulfilling and rewarding in many ways. If you ultimately decide you want to pursue dermatology, we hope this guide will help you successfully match into a dermatology residency program.
Nkanyezi Ferguson, Roopal V. Kundu, Osamuede Osemwota, Amit Pandya, Julia Mhlaba Riley, Jennifer Rorex. Additional contributionsfrommembersofthe2018-2019SOCSDiversityinActionTaskForce.
Updates made by Severine Cao, Sofia Chaudhry, Roopal Kundu, Loren Krueger, and the members of the 2023-2024 SOCS Diversity in Action Task Force.
AAD Diversity Mentorship Program
aad.org/member/career/awards/diversity
NthDimensions
nthdimensions.org/programs
Women’sDermatologicSociety
womensderm.org/awards/award-programs/student-summer-research-fellowship
FREIDA(AMAResidencyandFellowshipDatabase)
ama-assn.org/medical-students/preparing-residency/freida
NRMP-NationalResidencyMatchingProgram
nrmp.org
students-residents.aamc.org/applying-residency/article/eras-timeline-md-residency/
Minorities in Medicine to get information on groups under represented in medicine.
students-residents.aamc.org/deciding-if-medicine-you/advancing-diversity-medicineapps.acgme.org/ads/Public/Programs/Search/ResidencyApplicationServices
ERAS - Electronic Residency Application Service
aamc.org/services/eras/
SkinofColorSociety
skinofcolorsociety.org/
I Talk with an academic advisor in your Office of Medical Education about how to get early exposure to the field.
I Attend Dermatology grand rounds and conferences during your M1-M2 years to get exposure to the field and meet faculty and residents.
I Make an appointment with the dermatology clerkship director OR residency program director to introduce yourself, discuss shadowing opportunities in dermatology, and howtoworkonsmallresearchprojects (case reports, chapters).
I Ask your academic advisor or dermatology residency program director to identify a dermatology faculty mentor in your homeschool.
I Try to establish a relationship with dermatology residents at your home institution. Make your initial interest in dermatology known to them. Share that you would be interested in writing up an interesting case with them.
If they have consult rounds, ask if you can shadow sometime (this is also a good time to find interesting cases for write-ups and/or presentations).
I Get involved in extracurricular activities. Exhibiting sustained volunteerism, teamwork, and/or leadership throughout medical school is valued.
I Develop relationships with faculty, advisors, and mentors on your campus.
I Identify summer research opportunities in dermatology.
I Familiarize yourself with the Mentorship Programs available to medical students, such as the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Diversity Mentorship Program aad.org/member/career/awards/diversity, and the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) Mentorship Program and Observership Grant skinofcolorsociety.org/mentorship-programs.
Programs may be primarily aimed at 3rd and 4th year medical students who need a mentor that will help them polish their application for dermatology residency to make it as good as possible. Mentors are encouraged to help with publications and letters of recommendation. Other mentorship programs available to medical students include: Women’s Dermatologic Society (WDS) mentorshipprogram womensderm.org/awards/ award-programs/mentorship-award-program.
I Keep learning the M1 curricular content as your first priority.
I Use an USMLE Step 1 Review book to review along with your medical school curriculum. This will help identify key board fodder early, along with USMLE Step 1 Style practice questions.
I Attend Dermatology grand rounds and conferences to get exposure to the field and meet faculty and residents.
I Participate in summer research opportunities in dermatology (at your school if possible). Try to obtain a publication in a highly regarded dermatology journal as a result of your research.
I Seek opportunities to volunteer in dermatology and shadow a dermatologist.
I Meet with your identified faculty mentor to reflect on M1 year and create a plan for M2 year.
I Keep learning the M2 curricular content as your first priority.
I Create a concrete study plan for USMLE Step 1 exam. Although this exam is now pass/fail, it is still important to study for this exam to help solidify the pre-clinical curriculum.
I Complete research projects or writing projects that have been started.
I Continue to develop relationships with faculty, advisors, and mentors on your campus.
I Attend Dermatology grand rounds and conferences during your M1-M2 years to get exposure to the field and meet faculty and residents.
I Meet with your identified faculty mentor to reflect on M2 year and create a plan for M3 year.
I Make an appointment with the Dermatology Clerkship Director (or if appropriate/available the Program Director or Chair) to introduce yourself and convey your interest in the field.
I (re)Establish a relationship with dermatology residents at your home institution. Make your initial interest in dermatology known to them. Share that you would be interested in writing up an interesting case with them.If they have consult rounds, ask if you can shadow sometime (this is also a good time to find interesting cases for write-ups and/or presentations).
I Apply for the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Diversity Mentorship Program by November of your M2 years if you plan to complete this mentorship during the first 6 months of your M3 year aad.org/members/leadership-institute/ mentoring/find-a-mentor/diversity- mentorship-program. Ask your advisor to help you choose a mentor from the AAD’s mentor list who has a track record of helping mentees improve their application.
I Apply for the Skin of Color Society Mentorship Programs in the Fall to begin the following March.
The SOCS Mentorship Program is a comprehensive program that connects young physicians and medical students with an approved skin of color expert from SOCS. If matched with a mentor, the program last for up to one year. Other group mentoring opportunities may be available throughout the year for those who apply but are not matched with a mentor skinofcolorsociety.org/mentorship- program/.
The SOCS Observership Grant awards grants to help cover travel, room, and board costs for medical students (2nd- 4th year) to enable study with a SOCS mentor identified by the applicant skinofcolorsociety.org/observership-grant/.
I Prioritize performance in core clerkships (medicine, surgery, ob/ gyn, and peds). Performance on clinical clerkships is of primary importance to seek a residency position.
I By this time, you should have a well- established relationship with a dermatology faculty advisor. Meet at least once during the year to review your application timeline and discuss your M4 schedule.
I Make an appointment with the dermatology Chair to introduce yourself and convey your interest in the field. Attend the meeting with a printed version of your up-to- date curriculum vitae.
I Reconnect with the dermatology residency program director to convey your continued interest in the field. Attend the meeting with a printed version of your up-to-date curriculum vitae.
I Consider which faculty, advisors and mentors on your campus, with whom you’ve developed relationships, you’ll approach to write letters of recommendation for your applications. Maintain your relationship with them by meeting once or emailing an update.
I Attend any career informational sessions held by dermatology
I Apply to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Diversity Mentorship Program to plan for a M4 elective experience (if not done previously). Many students complete their mentorship month in the summer after their M3 year but before residency applications are due. If your medical school allows you to defer a required rotation during your M3 year, it’s a good idea to complete your mentorship month during your M3 year, as it will give you more time to do a project during the month and get the resulting publication accepted before September of your M4 year, when your application is due. The Diversity Mentorship grant website is aad.org/member/career/awards/diversity.
I Consider arranging an ‘away rotation’ at a program that interests you. M4 dermatology rotation slots fill quickly. Your mentors and local residents at your institution can help you decide where to visit. If you have a home dermatology program, it is recommended that you complete no more than 2 away electives.
Investigate:
I Dermatology residency programs in the U.S. apps.acgme.org/ads/ Public/ Programs/Search
I Minorities in Medicine to get information on groups underrepresented in medicine. students-residents.aamc.org/ choosing-medical-career/medical- careers/deciding-if-medicine-you/ minorities-medicine/
I FREIDA (AMA Residency and Fellowship Database) ama-assn.org/medical-students/ preparing-residency/freida
I Prepare for and take the USMLE Step 2 exam before September so that your score can be submitted with your application.
I Attend Dermatology grand rounds and conferences to expand exposure to the field and remain connected to faculty and residents.
I Complete a clinical dermatology rotation at your home program. Seek feedback on your clinical performance, which can also be used for your away rotations.
I Prepare for clinic, read up on patients, and find ways to be helpful in clinic, such as by setting up biopsy trays and anticipating your teams’ needs. Be actively engaged in patient care.
I Consider arranging to do an ‘away rotation’ at a program that interests you. Your mentors and local residents at your institution can help you decide where to visit. Treat the away rotation as a lengthy interview.
I Complete ERAS application.
Have your mentors review your application and personal statement. Do a spell check!
I Turn in your ERAS application before the first day that programs begin to review applications (date varies, check ERAS website).
I Signal the residency programs you are most interested in. Dermatology offers 3 gold signals and 25 silver signals. Make sure to signal your home/ away programs if they are in your top
28. It is likely that most applicants will only receive interviews from signaled programs.
I Ask for letters of recommendation no later than August 15 if possible. Who writes your letter and how well they now you is an important part of your application. Provide letter writers with your curriculum vitae, draft personal statement and ERAS cover sheet. The majority of your letters should be from dermatology.
I Prepare your personal statement. Describe specific experiences and anecdotes to illustrate your abilities and qualities that make you a good candidate for their program. Share your narrative and include parts that are not found easily in the rest of your application. Consider highlighting distance traveled and any formative life experiences.
I A few residency programs have secondary essays. Work on secondary applications.
I Plan for most interviews to be scheduled from November through January.
I In February after your interviews, submit your “Rank Order List” on the NRMP website, indicating your residency choices in order of preference.
I Familiarize yourself with residency application services
ERAS Electronic Residency Application Service aamc.org/services/eras-for-institutions
NRMP National Residency Matching Program nrmp.org/
I Become familiar with the Residency Timeline students-residents.aamc.org/eras-tools-and-worksheets- residency-applicants/2024-eras-residency-timeline
I Become familiar with the SOCS Resources including the guide on How To Obtain a Position in a Dermatology Residency Program skinofcolorsociety.org/dermatology-resources/
I Attend Dermatology grand rounds and conferences during your M1-M2 years, and again when free during M4 year.
I Attend any career informational sessions held by dermatology each year (M1-M4).
I Keep a journal about your experiences to use later for essays and interviews (M1-M4).
I For any meeting with dermatology faculty or residents, prepare several direct questions to ask that can help you navigate the application process based on your current medical school year. Bring a printed copy of your curriculum vitae to meetings and share if appropriate.
I If you do not have a home dermatology program or cannot identify a local mentor, seek a mentor through the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) server.aad.org/mentorship/search/ Default.aspx and the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) skinofcolorsociety.org/ mentorship-programs/.
I Join the Skin of Color Society skinofcolorsociety.org.
I Participate in activities to help the underserved or your community or reduce healthcare disparities. Many programs are putting more emphasis on a “culture of caring” in addition to grades and USMLE results.
I Become a leader in some organization at your medical school. Many dermatology programs are seeking to train future leaders in dermatology
I Prepare for your interviews by reviewing questions and doing mock interviews.
I Know every detail on your application. Prepare a 2-sentence and 2-paragraph answer on every activity listed.
I Review the dermatology residency program website, including the program and faculty, prior to a scheduled interview. Attend webinars that are hosted by your preferred programs.
I Conduct mock interviews with trusted mentors on web-based platforms (e.g., Zoom). Consider recording the session to evaluate your eye contact, engagement and nonverbal communication.
I A dermatology residency interview requires professional dress. The best choice is a comfortable suit and shoes without any flashy accessories. Be prepared for variable weather during the winter months if conducting in person interviews.
I If you’re flying, carry your interview clothes with you.
I It is important to talk to residents from each program during your interview experience.
I Remember you are being interviewed throughout the process, from interacting with staff when scheduling the interview to the very end of the interview day.
I Always have questions prepared to ask of each interview.
I Prepare examples that illustrate how you are a good team player and also examples of how you are a leader.
I Make sure to arrive on time for the interview day.
I Do not speak to anyone in an overly- familiar way. You must be professional with everyone.
I Do not drink more than one glass of alcohol if it is offered in a welcome dinner.
I Do not send post-interview thank you letters or letters of intent
Acknowledgements
Nkanyezi Ferguson, Roopal V. Kundu, Osamuede Osemwota, Amit Pandya, Julia Mhlaba Riley, Jennifer Rorex. Additional contributionsfrommembersofthe2018-2019SOCSDiversityinActionTaskForce.
Updates made by Severine Cao, Sofia Chaudhry, Roopal Kundu, Loren Krueger, and the members of the 2023-2024 SOCS Diversity in Action Task Force.
Happy New Year! As we welcome 2024 and begin our year-long celebration of our 20th Anniversary milestone, we reflect on the remarkable accomplishments of 2023 with gratitude and pride. Thanks to the individual and collective efforts of many SOCS leaders, members, supporters and collaborators, the Skin of Color Society experienced a year of exceptional progress in support of our mission to change the landscape for people of color through research, education, mentorship and advocacy. Several signature SOCS programs and newer initiatives made uniquely important contributions to the field this past year.
December 2023: The SOCS Meeting the Challenge Summit: Population Descriptors in Dermatology Research StudiesContinuing in our commitment to increase diversity in dermatology research studies and clinical trials, SOCS successfully presented our second Meeting the Challenge Summit in December 2023, this time focusing on population descriptors that best describe various populations under study.
As the second in a series, the Summit convened an esteemed, diverse group of 116 stakeholders, including skin of color dermatology leaders, researchers, clinicians, regulators, dermatologists-in-training, industry representatives, geneticists, dermatology journal editors, and an anthropologist. Co-chaired by Valerie M. Harvey, MD, MPH, FAAD and Valerie D. Callender, MD, FAAD, the 2023 Summit further advanced the broader work of the SOCS Diversity in Dermatology Clinical Trials Task Force, which introduced the inaugural Meeting the Challenge Summit in 2022—a groundbreaking gathering that led to the development of the nation’s first Diversity in Clinical Trials Mentorship Program, presented in 2023 in collaboration with the National Medical Association. In addition, this SOCS Task Force is in the process of developing a comprehensive, evidence-based review of the use and misuse of the current scales used to measure skin tones.
The 2023 Meeting the Challenge Summit was made possible with thanks to the support of the following sponsors: Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems, Inc. and L’Oréal Research & Innovation (Champion Level); Bristol Myers Squibb, Eli Lilly, Inc., and Incyte Corporation (Ally Level), and AbbVie, Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Google Health, and Sanofi-Regeneron (Partner Level). The 3rd SOCS Meeting the Challenge Summit will take place in 2025. Watch for details!
October 2023: My Best Winter Skin CampaignOn October 24, 2023, SOCS launched a new national health awareness day known as My Best Winter Skin Day, (MBWS), kicking off an annual seasonal campaign built around public education, volunteerism and giving.
While raising awareness about winter skin, funds raised through this public educational campaign go to the SOCS Foundation to help support innovative research and mentorship in skin of color dermatology. The world’s first MBWS Day rolled out with two successful community outreach events held in Chicago, IL and Washington, D.C., led by teams of SOCS members, dermatology residents and medical students from Northwestern University and Howard University respectively. Participating SOCS volunteers shared educational tips for managing winter skin that were developed by members of the SOCS Patient Education Committee, and distributed free moisturizers generously donated by MBWS campaign sponsors, La Roche-Posay and CeraVe. Campaign support was also provided by Restore Hair.
Since the inaugural MBWS Day events, a total of 36 SOCS members in 18 U.S. states and Washington, D.C. have volunteered to conduct additional outreach events in their communities and on local college campuses, resulting in the distribution of 5,000 educational tips and donated moisturizers to the public. Hundreds of medical school students, Resident and Fellow members have participated in this inaugural outreach to date. Plans are underway for an expanded MBWS campaign in 2024.
August 2023: Dermatology Foundation and SOCS Partner to Deliver Impactful Opportunity to Advance Health Equity in DermatologyFor the first time, the Dermatology Foundation (DF) and SOCS have partnered to deliver new DEI research support for 2024, with a one-million-dollar grant generously provided by Sanofi-Regeneron.
The Sanofi-Regeneron Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Mid-Career Award was developed especially for the exceptional mid-career investigator with an established trajectory of excellence in basic, clinical or translational science and will expand the understanding of dermatological issues impacting underrepresented or underserved groups in medicine. This substantial award adds a critical piece to the pathways of investigators working to address healthcare disparities. Supported research projects are expected to yield novel results that will provide urgently needed preliminary data and will serve as a springboard for obtaining larger research grants.
Administered and promoted by the DF/SOCS Collaborative, this unique award leverages the DF’s experience and infrastructure in award development and management, along with the SOCS’s expertise in DEI and deep reach into the community of DEI investigators. Applications are closed for the 2024 Award cycle. Recipients will be announced in March 2024.
July 2023: The first-ever SOCS Scientific Session at the World Congress of Dermatology (WCD)SOCS was pleased to present its first WCD Scientific Session at the 25th World Congress of Dermatology in Singapore. Organized by the International League of Dermatological Societies, of which SOCS is a proud member, the WCD is one of the largest dermatology meetings in the world.
Featuring expert presentations on inflammatory disorders, cultural beauty around the world, lichen planopilaris in South Africa, facial pigmentation and less-known facets of cutaneous tuberculosis, the SOCS Scientific Session was co-chaired by Drs. Victoria Barbosa and Ginette A. Okoye, under the leadership of SOCS President Dr. Andrew Alexis. This well-attended program was made possible by an educational grant from Pfizer.
June 2023: The SOCS Educational Video SeriesIn its continuing dedication to physician, patient and public education, SOCS released an innovative educational video series in June 2023, consisting of the “MelanatED” series of eight short-form videos and ten longer-form SOCS Identity videos.
Covering pertinent, high-interest topics ranging from cultural competency, inflammatory diseases, hair loss, and sunscreen in skin of color to patient safety, dermatologic differences in darker skin, the importance of early detection, how to find “Dr. Right” and much more, this enlightening collection addresses many issues of importance to patients of color and the physicians who care for them.
Drawn from the 6th Annual SOCS Media Day initiative, held in March 2023, these insightful videos feature nationally and globally recognized SOCS leaders, including: Drs. Susan C. Taylor, Andrew F. Alexis, Valerie M. Harvey, Candrice R. Heath, Janiene Luke, Corey L. Hartman, Shawn Kwatra, and Nkem Ugonabo.
This initiative was made possible thanks to the support of: Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems, Inc., Procter & Gamble, Senté, Bristol Myers Squibb, Arcutis Biotherapeutics and Dove.
The 7th Annual SOCS Media Day, “Changes, Challenges and Choices in Skin of Color: What SOCS Experts Say in an Era of Opportunity and Promise,” will lead to a new series of educational videos, featuring SOCS leaders who will share their insights on a range of timely and relevant topics of importance to patients of color. Watch for updates!
March 2023: The 19th Annual SOCS Scientific SymposiumHeld in March 2023, the 19th Annual SOCS Scientific Symposium, “Where Science, Innovation and Inclusion Meet,” showcased the latest skin of color dermatology research and insights from emerging researchers and leading experts from around the US and the world.
A record 179 scientific abstracts were submitted, with 128 poster abstracts and five oral abstract presentations accepted for inclusion in the program. Experienced by an international audience of 511 attendees, the Symposium featured 16 invited speakers, including a keynote address, who shared their insights through presentations, moderated panels and oral abstracts, along with an expansive range of iPosters on display for viewing. This informative program was co-chaired by Victoria Barbosa, MD, MPH, MBA, FAAD and Ginette A. Okoye, MD, FAAD.
The 19th Annual SOCS Scientific Symposium was supported by AbbVie, Arcutis, AVITA Medical, Beiersdorf, Bristol Myers Squibb, Dermavant Sciences, Eli Lilly, Evolus, Incyte, Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems, Inc., OrthoDermotologics, Sanofi-Regeneron, Sente, Strata Skin Sciences, UCB, and Unilever/Dove/Vaseline.
The 20th Annual SOCS Scientific Symposium, “Pathways to Equity: Advancing Advocacy, Research, and Clinical Excellence,” will take place on Thursday, March 7, 2024, at the Marriott Marquis in San Diego. The upcoming Symposium is co-chaired by Nada Elbuluk, MD, MSc, FAAD and Chere Lucas Anthony, MD, FAAD.
Wholehearted thanks to all who have contributed to the success and achievements of 2023. We are so excited about all that is planned for 2024 and look forward to your participation and engagement with SOCS in this 20th Anniversary year!
In late 2020, the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) embarked on an exciting journey to conduct a comprehensive strategic planning process, involving SOCS leaders and staff, led by Tecker International, a management consulting firm. In Q1 2022, we reached finalization of our Strategic Plan, which is summarized in the following overview.
GOAL A: Dermatology will be a diverse, knowledgeable, competent, and compassionate specialty treating skin of all colors.
GOAL B: Public stakeholders will universally recognize SOCS physicians as the leaders in the field of skin of color dermatology.
GOAL C: The Skin of Color Society will lead advances in skin of color dermatology.
GOAL D: Members will recognize the Society as the gold standard medical organization for skin of color education, research, and mentorship.
We advance skin of color dermatology to achieve health equity and excellence in patient care.
We are dedicated to increasing diversity and inclusion in dermatology.
To promote awareness of and excellence within skin of color dermatology through research, education, mentorship, and advocacy. We are committed to increasing diversity and inclusion in the field of dermatology to advance patient care.
EQUITY: We ensure inclusivity and diversity to achieve health equities in patient care.
EXCELLENCE: We leverage our recognition and authority within dermatology, the house of medicine, and the public as experts in skin of color dermatology.
MENTORSHIP: We value mentorship as a leadership development tool to foster a diverse workforce at all levels, developing and empowering future leaders in the field.
RESEARCH and INNOVATION: We lead research and innovation through our diverse array of advanced research activities, leveraging collaborations with domestic and international corporations and organizations.
EDUCATION: We educate the public, partners, and colleagues in support of our mission and noble purpose.
The Skin of Color Society (SOCS) is globally recognized as the preeminent leader in advancing skin of color dermatology to achieve health equity and excellence in patient care. The individual and collective efforts of leaders and members of the Skin of Color Society work synergistically to advance the continued expansion and evolution of the field of skin of color dermatology.
SOCS serves as the go-to authority and source of skin of color dermatologic knowledge and expertise for patients of color, the dermatological workforce, trainees, collaborators in the medical community, industry, the media, and the public-at-large.
The Society heightens awareness, deepens understanding and bridges knowledge gaps as the leading repository of skin of color dermatology education, including information on a wide array of dermatologic conditions, challenges and issues affecting people of color.
As a result of the work of SOCS, patients of color, physicians, the field of dermatology reap ongoing benefits from a more diverse, highly competent, well-trained, culturally sensitive, and inclusive workforce that is representative of, and reaches parity with, the global population–ultimately delivering compassionate, excellent and equitable dermatologic care for all.
A continuous pipeline of dermatological students, residents and fellows is comprehensively trained in the care of diverse populations with ready access to highly skilled mentors in all aspects of skin of color dermatology (medical, cosmetic and surgical), spanning private practice, public service and academia. This significant, sustainable increase in the number and diversity of well-trained dermatologists enables us to achieve healthcare equity for patients of color, ensure excellence in patient care and introduce innovations that positively impact the entire dermatology ecosystem.
SOCS shapes the future of skin of color dermatology by providing leadership development opportunities for tomorrow’s leaders, as well as offering ongoing mentorship experiences to physicians at all career levels–resulting in the continuous evolution and growth of dermatologists and the specialty as a whole, ultimately benefiting patients of color.
Research in the field of skin of color dermatology thrives, leading to important scientific and technological discoveries and breakthroughs, including effective new treatments and even cures for complex conditions affecting people of color. Patients of color participate regularly and broadly in clinical trial research for a wide variety of new medications and treatments under investigation.
SOCS stands as the globally recognized leader in supporting skin of color research, facilitating funding for investigative study in this diverse dermatologic field. SOCS itself offers grants to support junior investigators and seasoned physician-scientists alike, whose scientific investigations advance the field and lead to better treatments and cures that will positively impact people of color.
On an ongoing basis, SOCS leverages effective partnerships with like-minded organizations to advance understanding of the science of hair, skin and internal diseases in patients of color, as well as the art of dermatology and vital healthcare considerations relevant to racially, ethnically and culturally diverse populations.
SOCS supports unified, diverse communities around the world consisting of dermatologists with expertise in, and a passion for, skin of color dermatology, who collaborate with supporting local institutions and organizations to ensure that patients of color have access to the highest quality dermatologic care in a culturally competent manner.
Officers
President – Nada Elbuluk, MD, MSc, FAAD
President-Elect – Candrice R. Heath, MD, FAAD
Secretary/Treasurer – Rebecca Vasquez, MD, FAAD
Immediate Past President – Victoria Barbosa, MD, MPH, MBA, FAAD
The Skin of Color Society Board of Directors
Prince Adotama, MD, FAAD
Murad Alam, MD, MSCI, MBA, FAAD
Nkemjika Ugonabo, MD, FAA
Adrian Rodriguez, MD, FAAD
Tarannum Jaleel, MD, FAAD
Ginette Okoye, MD, FAAD
Janiene Luke, MD, FAAD
Tiffany T. Mayo, MD, FAAD
E. Nikki Pritchett, MD, MPH, FAAD
Mary Thomas, DNB, FRCPC, FAAD
Jane Yoo, MD, FAAD
Founding Members
Victoria Barbosa, MD, FAAD
Valerie D. Callender, MD, FAAD
Vincent DeLeo, MD, FAAD
Pearl Grimes, MD, FAAD
Aditya Gupta, MD, FAAD
Rebat Halder, MD, FAAD
Sewon Kang, MD, FAAD
A. Paul Kelly, MD, FAAD
Henry W. Lim, MD, FAAD
Amit G. Pandya, MD, FAAD
Marta I. Rendon, MD, FAAD
David Rodriquez, MD, FAAD
Miguel Sanchez, MD, FAAD
Richard Scher, MD, FAAD
Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD
Want to serve, lead and help shape the future of dermatology?
Stay tuned to the Scoop and check in with our social media to hear about when our next cycle of elections will open for 2026!
