Pathways: College students
For pre-med and postbaccalaureate students
The Dermatology Career Preparation Program is at the center of our Pathways: Inclusivity in Dermatology initiative. This program is designed to support underrepresented pre-med and postbaccalaureate students on their journey to becoming physicians, with a special focus on dermatology. If you have an interest in STEM, are entering a postbaccalaureate program, or are considering a career change, you may find dermatology to be a fulfilling career path. The AAD's Dermatology Career Prep program equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to advance in this exciting field.
Success stories
- 99% of participants reported a highly positive experience
- 100% of attendees gained a deeper interest in pursuing a career in dermatology
Benefits of the Dermatology Career Prep Program
Undergraduate and postbaccalaureate students, as well as career changers, will engage in an immersive five-day experience focused on:
Self-Discovery: Understand your strengths and aspirations.
Building Social Capital: Learn how to network and build meaningful connections.
Personal Branding: Develop your presentation style and professional image.
Hands-On Experience: Participate in on-campus activities that provide real-world insight.
Engagement with Experts: Interact with medical students, residents, and practicing dermatologists who share their career journeys and success strategies.
Participant testimonials
“I look forward to furthering my career and bringing education, confidence, and access to all, particularly in underserved communities. By increasing diversity in dermatology, we can improve cultural competency, enhance patient trust, and ultimately provide better care for all patients, regardless of their skin color.”
─ Courtney Roberts, previous Derm Career Prep participant
“Years of mentorship and pearls are condensed into a one week intensive that covers everything from CV creation, elevator pitches, and interview skills to basic procedural skills, community engagement, and how to engage with industry partners, creating a feasible blueprint to build the strongest candidate possible for medical school applications. The evolution and growth of the participants over this week is truly outstanding and inspiring.”
─ Adam Friedman, MD, FAAD, Professor and Chair of Dermatology George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences
2025 Cohort Sessions
Session 1: Washington DC Derm Career Prep Program: June 9-13
Session 1: Chicago Derm Career Prep Program: June 23-29
Participants will attend one of the two sessions. During the program, participants will:
Gain a comprehensive understanding of dermatology.
Receive guidance on applying to medical school.
Prepare for the MCAT.
Experience mentoring opportunities.
Build their personal brand.
Practice dermatological procedures under supervision.
Virtual open house
Interested in learning more? Join us for a virtual open house! Register for one of the dates below.
Application information
Priority consideration will be given to applications received by 11:59 p.m. CT on Jan. 20, 2025.
The final application deadline is 11:59 p.m. CT on Friday, May 2, 2025.
Please note that space is limited.
Derm Career Prep in the media
Unique program encourages diversity in field of dermatology NBC Chicago
Patients need doctors who look like them. Can medicine diversify without affirmative action? AP News
George Washington University event aims to train diverse cadre of dermatology students
Follow our social media
Follow the AAD on social media (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook) for skin, hair, and nail care information and tips from board-certified dermatologists.
High school outreach
Learn more about our resources for high schools, and be on the lookout for outreach by your local dermatologist. We’re providing AAD members with a diversity champion toolkit to help them conduct outreach to increase awareness of medicine and dermatology in local high schools and community colleges serving Black, Latino, and Indigenous communities.
Return to the homepage of the Pathways program.
Medical students can join us for workshops, symposia, and fellowships.
Learn more about our programs for dermatology residents.
