University of Virginia Medical Center Program
Location:
Charlottesville, VASpecialty:
Dermatopathology (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
1005121061The Dermatopathology Fellowship at the University of Virginia Medical Center is a one-year program specifically tailored to prepare participants for academic careers in the field. The program adheres to ACGME requirements for dermatopathology training and includes a comprehensive approach to clinical education.
The fellowship features a robust curriculum that consists of daily afternoon sign-outs of routine and consult cases, complemented by morning sessions in clinical dermatology for pathology-trained fellows or in related subspecialties for dermatology-trained fellows. This collaborative structure enriches the learning experience and promotes a well-rounded clinical education. There is an option for a second training year under special circumstances, allowing fellows to gain more hands-on experience and dedicate time to research projects in depth 1.
Clinical Training and Case Load
Fellows are engaged in a high-volume dermatopathology service, handling approximately 11,000 cases annually. Of these cases, around 9,000 are generated from within the institution and its surrounding community, while another 2,000 cases come from consultation requests. The program also incorporates a diagnostic immunofluorescence service, providing extensive exposure to various dermatopathological conditions 1.
Scholarly Activity
Participation in scholarly activities is a crucial aspect of the program. Each fellow is required to engage in at least one research project during their fellowship year, with the objective of presenting at a conference and pursuing publication. The program emphasizes flexibility in choosing research topics, fostering an environment where fellows can explore areas of personal academic interest 1.
Teaching and Educational Conferences
The educational component of the fellowship includes a variety of teaching conferences. Fellows lead one to two weekly dermatopathology conferences, which may include unknown slide presentations aimed at dermatology residents. Additional educational opportunities include dermatopathology journal clubs held twice monthly, as well as numerous other relevant conferences such as monthly Dermatology Grand Rounds and tumor board-style meetings focusing on melanoma and cutaneous lymphoma 1.
Fellowship Requirements
Applicants for the Dermatopathology Fellowship must possess an MD degree (or an equivalent foreign degree with current ECFMG certification) and must be board-eligible or certified in either Anatomic Pathology (AP) or Dermatology. The program typically prefers one fellow from pathology training and one from dermatology. It is crucial for candidates to submit a Fellowship Application, current CV, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, medical school transcript, and USMLE transcript 1.
Competitiveness and Application Process
This fellowship program is competitive, aiming to attract high-caliber applicants from varied medical backgrounds. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and graduates from Osteopathic (DO) backgrounds are welcomed, provided they meet the necessary qualifications and certification requirements 1. The application process opens on March 1st, twenty-eight months prior to the fellowship start date, and positions remain open until filled, highlighting the program’s selective nature 1.
Visa Support
The fellowship program offers visa sponsorship for qualified international applicants. The types of visas supported may include J-1 visas for exchange visitors, which are often utilized by fellows in clinical training programs, as well as H-1B visas for specialty occupations. Prospective fellows need to verify the specific visa options available directly through the program during the application process 1.
Website
Director
Linglei Ma, MD, PhDProgram Director Appointed Since October 2023 -Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
45hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$72,198First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
3Location
Charlottesville, VA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Charlottesville, VA
Charlottesville, VA, is a charming city located in central Virginia. Here's a breakdown of various aspects of living in Charlottesville:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Charlottesville generally has a moderate crime rate with a focus on property crimes. It is always recommended to be cautious in any city.
- Fun Activities: Charlottesville is known for its historical sites, vineyards, and outdoor activities like hiking in Shenandoah National Park. There are also cultural events, music festivals, and a thriving food scene.
- Climate: Charlottesville experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and mild winters. Fall is particularly beautiful with the changing colors of the leaves.
- Races and Population: Charlottesville has a diverse population, with a mix of races and ethnicities contributing to its vibrant community.
- Education: Charlottesville is home to the University of Virginia, which brings a strong academic and intellectual atmosphere to the city.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Charlottesville is slightly above the national average, mainly due to housing costs. However, compared to big cities, it is still relatively affordable.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Washington, D.C., is around 2 to 3 hours away by car, and Richmond, VA, is about an hour and a half away. Both cities offer more extensive cultural, entertainment, and career opportunities.
Interview Questions
