How Did You Find Mentors in Dermatology when You Were Just Starting Out?

“People may forget what you said, but they won’t forget how you made them feel,” and that goes both ways. When you’re just starting in medical school, especially with a dream as specific and competitive as dermatology, it’s easy to feel like you don’t have much to offer. So, how do you walk into a conversation, ask for advice or research opportunities, and still feel like a real human? Many of us do not want to be  just another student trying to "network.”

Here’s what I learned: talk to everyone and be genuinely curious. Instead of thinking about how someone can help you, focus on what you can learn from their journey. 

My passion for dermatology started back in undergrad when I worked as a medical assistant in a dermatology office. Beyond falling in love with the specialty, I was surrounded by incredible people who became lifelong mentors. I cannot recommend this enough: if you’re a premed student and can work in a clinical setting, do it. It’s one of the best ways to learn the field and start forming relationships early.

When I started medical school, I already knew I wanted to apply dermatology, which meant I had my work cut out for me from day one. I started reaching out to people right away. I didn’t reach out with big asks, but with curiosity. Over time, those conversations grew into familiarity and trust.

I networked like my life depended on it, because in a way, the life I imagined for myself did. I went to smaller dermatology conferences, introduced myself to everyone I could, and leaned into my natural personality. I was professional, of course, but I didn’t try to be overly rehearsed. 

Even for someone as outgoing as I am, these situations can be nerve-wracking! When I'd get nervous, I would remind myself that what’s meant for me won’t pass me by. I went to lectures, asked thoughtful questions, and showed up prepared. That’s how I met my mentor, Dr. Carlos Gomez-Meade, at the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology conference during my second year. He’s one of the most extraordinary people I’ve ever met: a brilliant and compassionate Mohs surgeon, family man, and philanthropist who created a nonprofit called Tobit 12 Charities that distributes survival packs to the homeless in his community.

We stayed in contact throughout med school, and I later rotated with him during my fourth year. He became one of my biggest advocates and played a pivotal role in helping me navigate the application process. His support, and that of other mentors who began as strangers, is a huge part of why I matched.

Here’s what I want you to take away: you never get what you don’t ask for. Be kind, be authentic, be teachable. Lead with heart, not with an agenda. 

Your dream mentors might be just one brave introduction away.

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