DermWorld Academy Insider: Get reliable career advice in a flash with new mentoring program
Oct. 16, 2025
The AAD recently launched a new Flash Mentoring program, which provides focused, one-time mentoring with no minimum time commitments. Whether you’re an early-career dermatologist with questions on how start advancing your career or a seasoned veteran with years of experience and expertise you’re eager to share, AAD Flash Mentoring has an opportunity for you.
In this DermWorld Academy Insider exclusive interview, Amy Y. Chen, MD, FAAD, chair of the AAD’s Mentoring Workgroup, discusses the Flash Mentoring program and why members should make use of it.
DermWorld: What is Flash Mentoring?
Dr. Chen: AAD has longstanding programs within the Leadership Institute that establishes long-term mentoring relationships. The idea behind Flash Mentoring is more of short-term mentoring opportunity for both mentors and mentees.
DermWorld: Why was it developed?
Dr. Chen: Sometimes during your career, you may have a question that arises regarding certain specific circumstances, such as career change or work-life balance or promotion, and you just need to talk to somebody who has gone through it before about how to handle the situation at that moment. The Academy did not offer such resources before. With the launch of Flash Mentoring, members now have the opportunity for these one-time, short-term mentor/mentee relationships with no minimum time commitment. If the relationship turns into a long-term relationship organically, that’s great too, but the idea is to provide a more issue-focused interaction.
DermWorld: Why — and in what ways — should members make use of it?
Dr. Chen: The best scenario in which to make use of Flash Mentoring is when you have a one-off, specific, focused question. Flash Mentoring will allow you to connect with people who have the knowledge and experience to provide you the needed guidance.
DermWorld: How can members participate?
Dr. Chen: You can participate and explore further by visiting the Flash Mentoring hub and logging in with your AAD credentials.
