Pathways: College students

Join our 5-day summer program for dermatology

The AAD’s Dermatology Career Prep program is an immersive experience that equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to advance in dermatology. This program is designed for underrepresented pre-med and postbaccalaureate students who are preparing for medical school.

2025 sessions

Session 1: Washington DC, June 9-13
Session 2: Chicago, June 23-27

Participants can attend only one of the sessions. During the program, participants will:

• Receive guidance on applying to medical school.

• Prepare for the MCAT.

• Experience mentoring opportunities from board-certified dermatologists.

• Practice dermatologic procedures under supervision.

• Network with dermatologists, instructors, and other students.

Application deadline

• The second priority deadline is Friday, March 21.

• The final application deadline is 11:59 p.m. CT on Friday, May 2, 2025.

Please note that space is limited.

Application checklist

The following documents are required for your application:

• Current (or most recent) school transcript (unofficial is fine)

• Current resume or CV

In the application form, you must address the following elements:

• Which of the two sessions you would like to attend.

• Your personal statement sharing who you are as a person, such as your interests, life experiences, goals, and social commitment – 500 word limit

• What has inspired you to pursue dermatology as your field of study – 250 word limit

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

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.

Pathways home

Return to the homepage of the Pathways program.

Medical school

Medical students can join us for workshops, symposia, and fellowships.

Residency

Learn more about our programs for dermatology residents.