VisTA Scholars Program

We are pleased to introduce the VisTA (Visiting URiM Trainee Award) Scholars Program, a funded program sponsored by the Harvard Combined Dermatology Residency Program, for visiting URiM dermatology residents to rotate in our program.

Overview

This program offers a four week visiting rotation to PGY-3 and PGY-4 residents enrolled in ACGME accredited US Dermatology residency programs, who self-identify as underrepresented in medicine (URiM)*.

* including, but not limited, to Black/African-American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian/Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, Cambodian, and Laotian.

Goals

  1. To provide exceptional training in general and subspecialty dermatology

  2. To support academic and research interests by providing networking opportunities and mentoring relationships within our system

  3. To introduce dermatology fellowship programs and faculty opportunities at Harvard affiliated hospitals

Eligibility

PGY-3 or PGY-4 URiM residents who are currently enrolled and are in good standing at an ACGME-accredited US Dermatology Residency Program.  Must be eligible to obtain a Massachusetts limited license and have the support of their program director.

Format 

  1. Participation in general dermatology, complex med-derm, cosmetic and subspecialty clinics as well as consult service at our affiliated sites.  Program sites include: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Lahey Clinic, Massachusetts General Hospital

  2. Schedule tailored based on resident’s interest, as feasible

  3. Weekly academic time and professional development time for meetings with faculty

  4. Participation in all resident didactics during elective month

  5. Pairing with a faculty advisor and a resident buddy during elective

  6. Welcome dinner with Harvard derm faculty and residents

Credentialing & Licensing

Four month advance notice required for completing credentialing and licensing to allow visiting residents to provide direct patient care.  A program letter of agreement must be completed and signed prior to start of rotation.

Funding

  1. Travel expenses up to $500

  2. Lodging expenses for the 4 weeks up to $3000

  3. Additional expenses for meals and local transportation up to $500

Application

  1. Completed Application Form

  2. Statement of purpose from applicant that includes specific interests and goals for the rotation

  3. Recommendation letter including certification of good standing from Program Director at home institution

  4. Current curriculum vitae

Please submit all application documents to Diane Kovacev at dkovacev@mgh.harvard.edu.

Application Deadline

  • January 20, 2025 (for electives occurring September 2025-June 2026).