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 identify as being from a group that is underrepresented in medicine* or come from a disadvantaged background.

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

·       Identify as being from a group that is underrepresented in medicine or come from a disadvantaged background.

·       PGY3 or PGY4 residents who are currently enrolled and in good standing at an ACGME-accredited US Dermatology Residency Program. 

·       Must be eligible for 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 services in up to three of our sites.  Sites include Beth Israel Medical Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Lahey Clinic and Massachusetts General Hospital. 

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

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

  4. Participation in all resident didactics for that month

  5. Pairing with a resident buddy for that month and a faculty advisor with an opportunity for mentorship after the rotation is completed.

  6. Welcome dinner with Harvard Dermatology faculty and residents.

Credentialing & Licensing

Four-month advance notice is necessary for completing paperwork and licensing. The Harvard Combined Dermatology Residency Program will incur additional costs due to credentialing and licensing to include limited license and malpractice insurance if not covered by home institution.

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 and 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

  • Application Deadline: January 20, 2025

    Earliest start date: September 2025- June 2026