Mentee: Oluwadamilola Oke
Mentor: Dr. Andrew Alexis
Weill Cornell Medical Center
In August 2024, I had the privilege of completing a Skin of Color Society (SOCS) Observership under the mentorship of Dr. Andrew Alexis at Weill Cornell Medical Center. This experience provided an invaluable opportunity to deepen my knowledge of dermatologic conditions in patients with a range of skin tones and hair types while sharpening my clinical and procedural skills.
The clinics were split between medical visits and procedures, allowing me to have a well-rounded and diverse exposure to dermatologic disorders. I greatly admired Dr. Alexis' extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for seamlessly incorporating newly approved treatment options into patient care. During this observership, I was introduced to innovative therapies, such as Zoryve, which had been approved for atopic dermatitis just weeks before my arrival. Dr. Alexis ensured that patients had access to treatment samples, empowering me to not only recommend therapies but also provide patients with a tangible “goodie bag” to initiate care immediately.
Procedural clinics further enriched my experience, as I became familiar with a variety of techniques, including intralesional kenalog and platelet-rich plasma injections for alopecia, chemical peels, laser hair removal, and laser therapy for keloids and scars. My exposure expanded even further through participation in Weill Cornell’s fast-paced weekly dermatology urgent clinic. There, I encountered even more diverse presentations of pathology and was motivated to be more efficient in establishing a diagnosis and plan.
Between patient visits, we engaged in teaching sessions that explored topics such as the physics of laser therapy and the role of Melasyl in the melanin pathway, enhancing my understanding of dermatologic interventions at a deeper level. After clinics, I was invited to attend Dr. Alexis’ guest lectures and presentations, which reinforced and expanded upon the cases I encountered in clinic.
Lastly, you cannot work with Dr. Alexis without appreciating how thorough and personable he is with patients. During my time with him, I picked up on many of his professional mannerisms which I carried throughout my future rotations.
I am immensely grateful to the SOCS for sponsoring this enriching experience and to Dr. Alexis for his outstanding mentorship. The knowledge and skills I gained during this observership will undoubtedly shape my future career, and I look forward to applying these lessons in my continued journey in dermatology.