VisTA Scholars Program
We are pleased to introduce the VisTA (Visiting Trainee Award) Scholars Program, a funded visiting residency rotation sponsored by the Harvard Combined Dermatology Residency Program. This program aims to broaden access to advanced dermatology training by providing visiting dermatology residents with an immersive clinical and academic experience at our institution.
Goals
To provide visiting dermatology residents with exceptional training in general and subspecialty dermatology.
To support academic and research interests by providing networking opportunities and faculty mentorship.
To introduce dermatology fellowship programs and faculty opportunities at Harvard-affiliated hospitals.
Eligibility
PGY-3 or PGY-4 dermatology residents currently enrolled and in good standing at an ACGME-accredited U.S. Dermatology Residency Program.
Must be eligible for a Massachusetts limited license and have the support of their program director.
Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in academic dermatology, health policy, medical education, or community outreach.
Applicants are encouraged to share any personal, academic, or professional challenges they have overcome on their path to dermatology, such as financial barriers, first-generation college status, or other experiences that have shaped their journey in medicine.
Program Format
Participants will rotate through a variety of general dermatology, complex medical dermatology, cosmetic, and subspecialty clinics as well as consult services at up to three sites. Rotational sites include:
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Boston Children’s Hospital
Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Lahey Clinic
Massachusetts General Hospital
Additional components include:
A customized schedule based on the resident’s areas of interest, as feasible.
Weekly academic time and professional development sessions with faculty.
Participation in all resident didactics during the rotation.
Mentorship opportunities, including:
A resident buddy for the month.
A faculty advisor with ongoing mentorship opportunities after the rotation.
Welcome dinner with Harvard Dermatology faculty and residents.
Credentialing & Licensing
A four-month advance notice is required to complete credentialing and licensing paperwork. The Harvard Combined Dermatology Residency Program will cover additional costs associated with credentialing and licensing, including a Massachusetts limited license and malpractice insurance (if not covered by the resident’s home institution).
Funding Support
The Harvard Combined Dermatology Residency Program provides financial support for:
Travel expenses up to $500.
Lodging expenses for the four-week rotation, up to $3,000.
Meals and local transportation up to $500.
Application Requirements
To apply, please submit the following materials:
Completed Application Form
Statement of Purpose detailing specific interests and goals for the rotation
Letter of recommendation and certification of good standing from the applicant’s Program Director
Current curriculum vitae (CV)
Optional: Distance Traveled Statement (250 words or fewer)
Applicants are invited to share any personal, academic, or professional challenges they have overcome in their path to dermatology. This could include but is not limited to:
Overcoming financial barriers
Being a first-generation college or medical student
Experiencing systemic barriers to medical education
Significant personal hardships that have shaped your journey
Limited access to mentorship or dermatologic training opportunities
This statement is not required but can provide additional context about your path to dermatology and how this program aligns with your goals.
Application Deadline
Application Deadline: May 30th, 2025
Earliest Start Date: January 2026 – June 2026
Submit all application materials to:
Diane Kovacev at dkovacev@mgh.harvard.edu.