The Mentorship Program established by the Board of Directors of the Medical Dermatology Society serves as a gateway for Residents, Post-Dermatology Residency Fellows, and Junior Faculty to connect with experienced professionals in the field of medical dermatology. By shadowing a senior MDS member for a month-long period, participants will have the opportunity to observe and partake in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with challenging dermatologic conditions. With the opportunity to receive up to $3,000 for direct expenses related to their mentorship experience, participants can immerse themselves in the daily practices and challenges faced by experienced MDS members, helping to shape their own future in the field of medical dermatology. The MDS Mentorship Program is a testament to the Society’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of dermatologists.
As prospective mentees prepare to engage in the Mentorship Program, it is essential for them to familiarize themselves with the important guidelines set forth by the Medical Dermatology Society. With a focus on professionalism and excellence, participants are expected to approach their mentorship experience with dedication, respect, and a willingness to learn. By following these guidelines and embracing the mentorship program wholeheartedly, Residents, Post-Dermatology Residency Fellows, and Junior Faculty can make the most of this transformative opportunity to further their careers in medical dermatology. With the support of senior MDS member mentors, participants can look forward to a rewarding and enriching experience that will shape their professional paths in dermatology.
MDS MENTORSHIP MISSION AND GOALS
- To develop future leaders in Medical Dermatology
- To produce research and contributions to the literature and the field of dermatology and medicine
- To promote mentorship relationships within the Medical Dermatology Society and between institutions
- To establish long-term relationships between Mentors and Mentees
MENTORSHIP PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
- Mentor and Mentee both must be current members of the MDS
- The mentor must be a faculty member
- Mentor and Mentee must not be from the same institution
- A Mentor may host more than one awardee in the same year
- A letter of recommendation from the Mentor is required
- A description of the project and activities the applicant will undertake, including any research, clinical experience, or learning that is planned is an important part of the application
- A research component to the mentorship program is encouraged, but not required.
MENTORSHIP ROTATIONS
- Mentorship must take place between April 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026
- The four (4) weeks of mentorship do not have to be consecutive but must include a minimum of two (2) consecutive weeks on site with the mentor (the additional two (2) weeks may take place as remote mentorship)
- A letter from the Mentee’s Chair or Program Director must be submitted to the MDS for approval if you are unable to complete the four (4) week rotation schedule
EXPENSE GUIDELINES
- Anticipated expenses that should be submitted include: transportation, lodging, meals, and supplies needed for the Mentorship rotation
- Unfortunately, salaries, malpractice insurance, and indirect or overhead costs cannot be covered expenses at this time
- The MDS Mentorship Committee will revise the final budget proposal
SUBMITTING YOUR APPLICATION
- Applications, including letters of support, bio-sketch and personal statement must be submitted through the MDS Mentorship Application Link
- Applications forwarded to the MDS office directly will not be considered
- Deadline to apply for consideration is Monday, December 9, 2024. Incomplete or late applications will not be evaluated
- Please limit all Statements of Proposed Goals to one (1) page – 11pt font preferred
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Awards will be prioritized for those with no other sources of funding for mentorship activities and consideration will be given to whether the applicant has access to similar experiences at his or her home institution
- The MDS encourages and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusivity, and during application review, consideration towards ensuring the grant recipients reflect the diversity of our field and patient population will be prioritized
UPON COMPLETION OF THE MENTORSHIP EXPERIENCE
- Receipts for travel and lodging must be submitted no later than one (1) month after completion of the mentorship period. Mentees may request funds in advance of their mentorship, although they must provide receipts for the mentorship program
- Awardees must submit a one (1) page report no later than one (1) month after they complete their mentorship experience to the MDS office that should include a detailed description of the mentorship experience. Awardees: The report should highlight your experience and how it has enhanced your career development
- Awardees will be asked to present a five (5) minute summary to the members of the MDS at the Annual Meeting to be coordinated with the MDS Administrative office.
- The summary report can be submitted as a formal research abstract describing relevant research performed
- Mentorship teams are highly encouraged to attend the MDS Annual Meeting
- Summary reports will be posted on the MDS website once received
Thank you for your interest in this mentorship program. We look forward to reading your submission and to partnering with you in your career development and success.
MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT FOR THE MDS MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
In order for the MDS to continue to provide a very successful Mentorship Awards Program, which is a staple of the Society over the years, and the challenges the MDS faces with the lack of pharma support for the mentorship program; your donation will help support the Mentorship Program. Any and all donations are welcome and greatly appreciated by the MDS.
Support the MDS Mentorship Program Campaign, by visiting MDS Mentorship Donation Link
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MENTOR?
Are you a current MDS Member and interested in being a mentor?
Return this completed MDS MENTOR APPLICATION FORM to the MDS office
If you still have any questions regarding the MDS Mentorship program? Please contact the MDS Office by email or by phone at 216-579-9300.
IMPORTANT PROGRAM LINKS
MDS MENTORSHIP PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDELINES
MDS MENTORSHIP APPLICATION SUBMISSION LINK
MDS MEMBER INTEREST FORM TO BE A POTENTIAL MENTOR
SUPPORT THE MDS MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
HISTORICAL MDS MENTORSHIP PROGRAM AWARDEES AND EXPERIENCE REPORTS