Pathways: College students

Join our 5-day summer program for dermatology

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

Dermatology Career Prep supports college students with workshops, mentorship, and education to help remove barriers to preparing for medical school and careers in dermatology. Open to all applicants who meet stated program criteria; selection is based on stated criteria, including demonstrated need, interest in serving underserved communities, and program capacity.

2027 session

Location: Chicago area
Date: June 2027 (exact dates to be announced)

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.

• Network with dermatologists, instructors, and other students.

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.

Application timeline

The application will open in early fall and close mid-winter. Acceptance and waitlisting will occur on an ongoing basis for the program.

Application checklist

The following PDF documents are required for your application:

• Current or most recent school transcript (unofficial accepted)

• Current CV or resume

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

• Submit your personal statement including your interests, life experiences, goals, and social commitment – 750 word limit

• Submit the most recent transcripts from your educational institution that includes your name, name of the institution, and GPA. Do not copy and paste aspects of the transcripts into a document and submit.

• Application must be completed by the prospective applicant.

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

FAQs

Who can apply to the program?

The program is for premedical school undergraduate, post baccalaureate, and career changers who are not attending medical school.

Participants must have completed post-secondary education and complete the full application process for consideration for the program.

Who reserves lodging for the program?

Lodging for the program is the responsibility of each individual to manage. AAD does not manage lodging or transportation to the program.

Does the AAD pay for air, rail, or personal travel?

Transportation will be provided for participants once individuals arrive at the program for program-related events. The AAD does not pay for individual travel to arrive at the program.

How should documents be submitted?

All attachments should be submitted within the application as a PDF.

How many participants will attend the Derm Career Program?

The program will invite 100 participants to the program.

How much does the program cost?

The program fee is $200. As soon as an applicant has been accepted into the program, the program fee should be paid.

When will applicants receive notice of acceptance?

The application will open in early fall and close mid-winter. Acceptance and waitlisting will occur on an ongoing basis for the program.

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 an inclusivity toolkit to help them conduct outreach to increase awareness of medicine and dermatology in local high schools and community colleges serving those who come from under-resourced communities, marginalized groups, and/or those individuals who are committed to advocating for patients from these groups and 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.