Career Corner: Following an Academic Career Path

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Career Corner: Following an Academic Career Path

Special thanks to Dr. Marilyn Wickenheiser for providing insight into following an academic career path. Dr. Wickenheiser serves as the Staff Physician and Associate Program Director at Cleveland Clinic Department of Dermatology.

Since medical school, I have focused on medical education and teaching. During my dermatology residency, I served as the chief resident. In this role, I was tasked with developing the curriculum, mentoring fellow residents, and acting as a liaison between residents and faculty. Following graduation, I pursued opportunities to work with residents and medical students in an academic setting. After practicing clinically and serving as teaching faculty for several years, I assumed the role of Associate Program Director for my residency. My experiences with mentors and teachers have guided my approach. Additionally, witnessing the development of medical students and residents has been fulfilling.

I've been fortunate not to face many challenges in my role, thanks to supportive colleagues and supervisors. The main difficulty is balancing work and family life. My busy clinical practice and administrative duties sometimes require me to sacrifice time away from my young daughters. Fortunately, my flexible and supportive family helps me manage this schedule. I also aim to show my daughters that it is possible to achieve both a successful career and a fulfilling family life.

If you have an interest in residency program leadership, I recommend taking courses to learn skills needed in medical education such as communication and interpersonal skills, organization and time management, and teaching skills. Continue to hone those skills by mentoring and teaching medical students and residents in residency and in your career. Take on leadership roles within your program as they arise. I encourage networking with peers and mentors for support and guidance from their own experiences. The Women’s Dermatologic Society is a great place to connect with fellow dermatologists with similar career interests. 

Dr. Marilyn Wickenheiser
Cleveland Clinic Department of Dermatology
Staff Physician
Associate Program Director

 

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