Dermatology

Dermatology

General OMS-I guidance

Dermatology is a highly competitive specialty, so it is imperative to study well. As a general observation, students accepted into Dermatology have typically been top students in their class. Board scores need to be above the 70^th percentile. As an OMS-I student, consider looking into research and shadowing opportunities. 

General OMS-II guidance

Significant scholastic achievement during your OMS II year is a must. This year is an opportunity to begin reviewing Dermatology programs, networking with previous LUCOM Dermatology graduates, and look for opportunities to collect letters of recommendations. Continue looking for research opportunities, this can be a literature review.

General OMS-III guidance

In preparation for your OMS-IV clinical rotations, plan to request letters of recommendation for Dermatology from one of the Core Internal Medicine rotations. Use the elective opportunity at the end of third year to try securing a Dermatology or Dermatopathology rotation and an additional letter of recommendation.  Continue to seek research opportunities.

General OMS-IV guidance

Secure audition rotations in Dermatology, especially at sites you are interested in doing your residency. Work on gathering final Letters of Recommendation to submit with your residency application.

Research guidance – What research should a student seeking this specialty engage in?

If able, Dermatology is encouraged. However, any research is good to show interest which may help separate you from other students.

Volunteer, work or service guidance

All volunteer work is valuable.

Letters of Recommendation – How many and by whom

At least three letters of recommendations are needed, and two should come from Dermatology. Additional letters of recommendation can come from OMS-III rotation preceptors and/or a LUCOM clinical faculty member who knows you well.

Recommended total number of interviews overall

As many interviews as possible are recommended for Dermatology. If applying for a backup specialty of Internal Medicine, 8-10 more interviews are recommended.

Recommended total number of interviews in the specialty

It is recommended that applicants aim to secure approximately five interviews.

General CV guidance

Follow a solid template, and make sure to highlight your assets such as service, research, leadership.

General Personal statement guidance

Where does your interest and passion for Dermatology come from? Avoid using “I” too much in your statements, and make sure to talk about leadership, teamwork, passion, and drive.

Rotations – What 4th year rotations would you encourage a student in this specialty to secure?

Dermatology, Dermatopathology, Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine and Surgery or Plastic rotations are encouraged. Psychology rotations can be considered due to its component in Dermatology.

Additional thoughts or suggestions

Academic performance plays a large role in student success in matching in Dermatology. 

Comments from Ry Bohrnstedt, DO Dermatologist

Hard process, but I would say the most important thing is praying about it and follow the Lord. He will open and close doors as His will is greatest! “Don’t worry about anything, pray about everything”. Students must be well rounded with research, volunteer work, etc. Grade and board scores make a huge difference in this specialty. It is important to blend in and help out during audition rotations as well as assisting and interacting with current residents in the program (they typically have more say than you think and getting to know the program director doesn’t hurt). While rotating, ask the program if there are any case studies you can write for the residents. Additionally, ask if there are any volunteer opportunities (e.g. On rotation, I helped out with “Twins Day” in Twinsburg where they had a booth for research). Talking to current residents from the school you are in definitely helps. They typically know the “scoop” on other programs too. Don’t give up if this is something you can and want to do!  I’ve known multiple residents that didn’t get in the first go. One in particular did research for two years at Duke post medical school before finally getting in a Derm program. He is now a Mohs surgeon.

Summary of Academic Metrics for LUCOM Students Entering Dermatology:

Click the link above to visit an interactive data tool published by the NRMP to explore the national data pertaining to characteristics of students matching into each specialty.