2 answers
Nia
Student
Red Oak, Texas
1
Question
Asked
939 views
How to become a dermatologist
Hi I want to know how to become a dermatologist but I'm 11 so I have a long way to go can you help me I kinda want to become the next dr. pimple popper.
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2 answers
Charlotte Geiger
Public Health Science Student at the University of Maryland
150
Answers
Sykesville, Maryland
Updated
Charlotte’s Answer
Hi Nia,
That’s awesome that you’re already thinking about becoming a dermatologist at 11! It’s great to have big dreams, and being inspired by Dr. Pimple Popper is a fantastic start. Dermatology is a medical field that focuses on skin, hair, and nail health, and it’s a career that requires a lot of dedication and study—but it’s definitely possible if you’re passionate about it! Here’s how you can get there:
1. Start with a Strong Foundation:
Focus on Science and Math:
In middle and high school, take subjects like biology, chemistry, and math. These will build your foundation for college courses later on.
Develop Good Study Habits:
Practice being organized with your notes and homework, as these skills will help you all the way through medical school.
Stay Curious:
Watch educational videos about skin health, like those from Dr. Pimple Popper, and read kid-friendly science books.
2. High School:
Take Advanced Science Classes:
Enroll in AP Biology, Chemistry, and Anatomy if your school offers them.
Get Involved in Science Clubs:
Join clubs like Science Olympiad or Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA).
Volunteer or Shadow:
If possible, volunteer at local clinics or ask to shadow a dermatologist to see what the job is really like.
Research Medical Careers:
Learn about different medical fields to make sure dermatology is the one you love the most.
3. College (4 Years):
Major in a Science Field:
Most future doctors major in Biology, Chemistry, or Pre-Med.
Get Good Grades:
Aim for high grades, as medical schools are very competitive.
Gain Clinical Experience:
Volunteer at hospitals, clinics, or research labs to build your resume.
Take the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test):
This is a big exam needed to apply to medical school.
4. Medical School (4 Years):
Study Hard:
Medical school is intense! You’ll study anatomy, physiology, and clinical skills.
Clinical Rotations:
You’ll spend time in different medical specialties, including dermatology.
Specialize in Dermatology:
During your last year, start focusing on dermatology and applying for residency programs.
5. Dermatology Residency (4 Years):
Hands-On Training:
You’ll work directly with patients, treating skin conditions and learning procedures.
Gain Experience:
Learn about diagnosing and treating issues like acne, eczema, and even performing minor surgeries.
Become Board Certified:
After residency, you’ll take exams to become a certified dermatologist.
6. Optional: Fellowship (1-2 Years):
Specialize Further:
Some dermatologists choose to focus on areas like cosmetic dermatology, pediatric dermatology, or dermatologic surgery.
7. Start Your Career as a Dermatologist:
Open Your Own Clinic:
Like Dr. Pimple Popper, you could start your own practice and even have your own social media presence to share your work!
Work in a Hospital or Private Practice:
Treat patients, help with skincare issues, and educate people about skin health.
That’s awesome that you’re already thinking about becoming a dermatologist at 11! It’s great to have big dreams, and being inspired by Dr. Pimple Popper is a fantastic start. Dermatology is a medical field that focuses on skin, hair, and nail health, and it’s a career that requires a lot of dedication and study—but it’s definitely possible if you’re passionate about it! Here’s how you can get there:
1. Start with a Strong Foundation:
Focus on Science and Math:
In middle and high school, take subjects like biology, chemistry, and math. These will build your foundation for college courses later on.
Develop Good Study Habits:
Practice being organized with your notes and homework, as these skills will help you all the way through medical school.
Stay Curious:
Watch educational videos about skin health, like those from Dr. Pimple Popper, and read kid-friendly science books.
2. High School:
Take Advanced Science Classes:
Enroll in AP Biology, Chemistry, and Anatomy if your school offers them.
Get Involved in Science Clubs:
Join clubs like Science Olympiad or Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA).
Volunteer or Shadow:
If possible, volunteer at local clinics or ask to shadow a dermatologist to see what the job is really like.
Research Medical Careers:
Learn about different medical fields to make sure dermatology is the one you love the most.
3. College (4 Years):
Major in a Science Field:
Most future doctors major in Biology, Chemistry, or Pre-Med.
Get Good Grades:
Aim for high grades, as medical schools are very competitive.
Gain Clinical Experience:
Volunteer at hospitals, clinics, or research labs to build your resume.
Take the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test):
This is a big exam needed to apply to medical school.
4. Medical School (4 Years):
Study Hard:
Medical school is intense! You’ll study anatomy, physiology, and clinical skills.
Clinical Rotations:
You’ll spend time in different medical specialties, including dermatology.
Specialize in Dermatology:
During your last year, start focusing on dermatology and applying for residency programs.
5. Dermatology Residency (4 Years):
Hands-On Training:
You’ll work directly with patients, treating skin conditions and learning procedures.
Gain Experience:
Learn about diagnosing and treating issues like acne, eczema, and even performing minor surgeries.
Become Board Certified:
After residency, you’ll take exams to become a certified dermatologist.
6. Optional: Fellowship (1-2 Years):
Specialize Further:
Some dermatologists choose to focus on areas like cosmetic dermatology, pediatric dermatology, or dermatologic surgery.
7. Start Your Career as a Dermatologist:
Open Your Own Clinic:
Like Dr. Pimple Popper, you could start your own practice and even have your own social media presence to share your work!
Work in a Hospital or Private Practice:
Treat patients, help with skincare issues, and educate people about skin health.
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1942
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Nia it can take 11-12 years to become a dermatologist, depending on your level of specialization post-residency. This includes time spent as an undergraduate (4 years), in medical school (4 years) and completing residency (3 years)
BACHELOR'S DEGREE (4-YEARS)
Most medical schools require the following prerequisite courses: mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, organic chemistry, anatomy, and English. To be competitive, medical admissions specialists suggest earning a B or higher in all classes. In addition to receiving good grades, other experiences such as volunteering, leadership roles, research, and shadowing are definitely taken into account by admissions specialists. Having a pre-med or healthcare related degree is not required by the majority of Med schools.
MEDICAL SCHOOL (4-YEARS)
After undergraduate prerequisites are complete, students wanting to become Dermatologists must apply and be accepted to an Allopathic (MD degree) or Osteopathic (DO degree) medical school. Because Medical school admission is highly competitive, high grade point averages and MCAT scores are very important. Most med schools use computer-based algorithms to screen applicants, so it's vital to have good scores in order to even be considered for admission. Medical school curriculum is broken down into two distinct parts. The first two years of med school are spent doing classwork, where the basic sciences of Medicine are learned. The last two years of Medical school are spent in teaching hospitals where students become familiar with clinical skills and procedures. During Medical school, all students must pass two national board examinations. For Allopathy students these are the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 exams. There are similar board examinations for D.O. students, called the COMLEX tests.
DERMATOLOGIST RESIDENCY (3-YEARS)
After Medical school is officially complete, graduates now get a limited license to practice and see patients. However, they must do so under supervision. All future Dermatology residents must complete a one year Internship, also known as transitional or preliminary year. During this time, trained students, who now have a M.D. or D.O. degree work in teaching hospitals, clinics, and emergency departments to see patients and learn skills for a broad understanding of medicine. The USMLE Step 3 or COMLEX Level 3 must also be completed during this time.
BACHELOR'S DEGREE (4-YEARS)
Most medical schools require the following prerequisite courses: mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, organic chemistry, anatomy, and English. To be competitive, medical admissions specialists suggest earning a B or higher in all classes. In addition to receiving good grades, other experiences such as volunteering, leadership roles, research, and shadowing are definitely taken into account by admissions specialists. Having a pre-med or healthcare related degree is not required by the majority of Med schools.
MEDICAL SCHOOL (4-YEARS)
After undergraduate prerequisites are complete, students wanting to become Dermatologists must apply and be accepted to an Allopathic (MD degree) or Osteopathic (DO degree) medical school. Because Medical school admission is highly competitive, high grade point averages and MCAT scores are very important. Most med schools use computer-based algorithms to screen applicants, so it's vital to have good scores in order to even be considered for admission. Medical school curriculum is broken down into two distinct parts. The first two years of med school are spent doing classwork, where the basic sciences of Medicine are learned. The last two years of Medical school are spent in teaching hospitals where students become familiar with clinical skills and procedures. During Medical school, all students must pass two national board examinations. For Allopathy students these are the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 exams. There are similar board examinations for D.O. students, called the COMLEX tests.
DERMATOLOGIST RESIDENCY (3-YEARS)
After Medical school is officially complete, graduates now get a limited license to practice and see patients. However, they must do so under supervision. All future Dermatology residents must complete a one year Internship, also known as transitional or preliminary year. During this time, trained students, who now have a M.D. or D.O. degree work in teaching hospitals, clinics, and emergency departments to see patients and learn skills for a broad understanding of medicine. The USMLE Step 3 or COMLEX Level 3 must also be completed during this time.
Hi Doc Frick
She's just 11, can this be simplified for her?
Mavis Bajah