Pathways medical students

Build the skills, experience, and connections for a career in dermatology

Whether you’re exploring dermatology for the first time or preparing for residency, Pathways helps you build the experiences that matter. Through hands-on workshops, mentorship, research opportunities, leadership development, and national networking, you’ll gain the confidence and support to take the next step in your dermatology journey.

Your path through medical school

No matter where you are in medical school, Pathways offers opportunities to help you explore dermatology, strengthen your clinical skills, build meaningful mentorships, and prepare for residency. Learn more by selecting below.

Bioskills workshops

Curious what it feels like to perform dermatologic procedures?

Bioskills workshops provide medical students with hands-on exposure to dermatology through interactive learning sessions led by practicing dermatologists. Participants gain experience with basic dermatologic procedures while building confidence, asking questions, and connecting with mentors in an encouraging learning environment.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore dermatology or looking to strengthen your procedural skills, these workshops offer a valuable introduction to the specialty.

Nth Dimensions Summer Internship (NDSI) Scholars Program

Designed for first-year medical students, the Nth Dimensions Scholars Program offers an eight-week summer experience that pairs students with a practicing dermatologist for mentored clinical and research experiences.

Scholars build research and clinical skills, strengthen their preparation for residency, and develop lasting professional relationships. Mentorship and support continue throughout medical school and beyond.

Applications open each September.

AAD Medical Student Symposium

The Medical Student Symposium brings students together for two days of hands-on skills sessions, faculty presentations, and networking opportunities designed specifically for future dermatologists, ideal for people without a derm home and early in their medical student career.

Explore the specialty, ask questions, gain practical knowledge, and connect with faculty and peers from across the country.

Applications open Sept. 15.

Pathways Mentorship Program

The AAD’s longest-running mentorship program provides a structured, tiered experience that supports students throughout every year of medical school.

Participants complete a 2-4 week mentorship with an AAD member, receive a travel stipend, and engage in leadership and presentation opportunities that strengthen clinical knowledge, professional skills, and long-term engagement within dermatology.

Applications open Sept. 14, 2026

Pathways Gap Year Fellowship

The Pathways Gap Year Fellowship offers a one-year, mentored research experience designed to remove barriers to research participation while strengthening preparation for dermatology residency.

Participants work alongside experienced mentors, contribute to meaningful research, and gain valuable experience that enhances both professional growth and residency applications.

Applications open Oct. 15.