D.O. Candidate, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, VCOM Carolinas Campus, Class of 2026

M.S., Medical University of South Carolina, Clinical Research, Class of 2024

Elliott graduated from Clemson University and continued her medical education at VCOM Carolinas. During medical school, she completed a Master of Science in Clinical Research at MUSC and is currently a fourth-year medical student. Attending her first DTAG conference during her third year of medical school, Elliott realized that many medical students, including herself, are unsure how to get involved in advocacy or where to find the necessary resources. This experience underscored the importance of understanding advocacy and legislation early in medical training to better prepare for championing the needs of both patients and providers. Elliott is honored to be part of a dedicated team committed to educating future physicians on medical legislation, raising awareness of key issues, and advocating for patient equity and access.

M.S., University of Cincinnati, Cosmetic Skin Science, Class of 2026

Medical University of South Carolina Clinical Research, CCRT, Class of 2023

B.S. Natural Science, Minor-Biology, American Military University, Class of 2020

Licensed Medical Aesthetician, CME, Class of 2011

Leah is a current Master's student in the graduate program at the James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati. Her passion for dermatology began when she became a licensed medical esthetician in 2011. While pursuing her undergraduate degree, she led the GWU Dermatology Clinic as a Department Lead and graduated with a B.S. in Natural Science in 2020. As a caretaker of a child with severe atopic dermatitis, her interest in dermatology has deepened, and she is eager to advocate and educate based on her personal experiences. This is her second year serving as the DTAG Communications Chair, where she aims to promote healthy living and enhance her skills and understanding for the people of South Carolina.

M.D. Candidate, University of South Carolina, Class of 2026

M.S., Biomedical Engineering, Clemson University, Class of 2022

Carol is a third-year medical student at the Medical University of South Carolina with a strong passion for skin cancer prevention and advocacy within the dermatology field. She holds a background in Bioengineering, specializing in biomaterials. Currently, in her second year on the Dermatology Trainee Advocacy Day committee, Carol is co-leading legislative efforts. Additionally, she serves as the philanthropy chair for the Dermatology Interest Group at her school, organizing melanoma awareness and outreach events. Carol is dedicated to research on dermatological manifestations of various diseases and enjoys collaborating with her advocacy team. In her free time, she loves taking walks around Charleston, always mindful to wear her sunscreen.

D.O. Candidate, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, VCOM Carolinas Campus, Class of 2026

B.S., Biology, College of Charleston, Class of 2020

Grace is a third-year medical student at VCOM-Carolinas with a strong interest in the intersection of dermatology, oncology, and immunotherapy. Born and raised in Charleston, SC, she earned her B.S. in Biology from the College of Charleston. Prior to medical school, she gained valuable experience working as a medical assistant in general dermatology and Mohs surgery, and later served as a Biologics Coordinator. Grace is particularly interested in the role of targeted therapies and immunotherapies in treating dermatologic malignancies and aspires to contribute to advancements in this field. She is passionate about improving access to therapeutic options for patients and is equally dedicated to advocacy efforts that promote preventative education. Grace enjoys advocating for patients and supporting initiatives to enhance early detection and treatment of skin cancers.

M.D. Candidate, University of South Carolina, School of Medicine, Greenville, Class of 2026

Jasmine is a third-year medical student at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, with a strong passion for dermatology and health equity. She graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in Genetics from the University of Georgia in 2021, earning CURO distinction. As a proud member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Jasmine is committed to advocating for underserved communities, especially American Indian and Alaska Native populations.

D.O. Candidate, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Carolinas Campus Medical Student, Class of 2027

M.D. Candidate, Medical University of South Carolina, Medical Student, Class of 2026

B.S.P.H in Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

D.O. Candidate, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, VCOM Carolinas Campus, Class of 2027

B.S., Florida State University, Class of 2022

Jordan is a passionate second-year medical student at VCOM-Carolinas. As a Florida native, her interest in dermatology grew from witnessing the significant effects of sun exposure on health. Jordan graduated from Florida State University in 2022. She spent her gap year working with numerous dermatologists and MOHs surgeons in both urban and rural locations in North Carolina. This experience provided her with exposure to various skin cancers and other dermatological conditions. It also highlighted the ongoing need for patient education regarding skin cancer screenings and prevention. Jordan is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of these screenings and their critical role in patient wellbeing. Jordan believes that every individual deserves to feel beautiful and healthy in their own skin, a principle she is deeply passionate about and plans to emphasize in her future practice.

M.D. Candidate, University of South Carolina Columbia, Class of 2026

M.S., Clinical Research Candidate, MUSC, Class of 2025

Shelby is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Clinical Research at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). Originally from Columbia, SC, she was raised in Huntsville, AL, and earned her undergraduate degree from Clemson University. After completing her third year of medical school at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, she decided to take a research year in Charleston to gain additional experience and exposure in dermatology.

M.D. Candidate, University of South Carolina-School of Medicine Greenville, Class of 2026

B.S., Clemson University, Bioengineering, Class of 2022

Julia is a third-year medical student at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville. Her interest in dermatology began after shadowing in pediatric dermatology and witnessing the significant impact this field can have on patients' lives. She was particularly moved by seeing children gain confidence through the treatment of skin issues and enjoyed learning about the complex diagnoses in pediatric dermatology. Julia further solidified her interest by completing a dermatology elective at her school. During medical school, she has also volunteered to educate the public about skin cancer prevention and distribute sunscreen samples. Julia is passionate about continuing her efforts in skin cancer education and making a meaningful impact through the Dermatology Advocacy.

D.O. Candidate, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, VCOM Carolinas Campus, Class of 2027

M.A., Biomedical Sciences, Bluefield University, Class of 2023

B.A. Global Health & Environment, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Class of 2014

Rachelle is a dedicated second-year medical student at VCOM-Carolinas with a strong passion for dermatology and public health education. Her interest in these fields was sparked during her time as a medical assistant at a dermatology and skin cancer center, where she worked closely with two Mohs surgeons. This experience fueled her commitment to skin cancer prevention and patient education, inspiring her to empower individuals to take proactive steps in protecting their health. Rachelle enjoys developing research initiatives and spending time in the simulation center, where she hones her clinical skills and embraces opportunities for hands-on learning. Her work reflects her dedication to advancing public health through education and advocacy, with a vision to inspire change in dermatological care and patient empowerment.

D.O. Candidate, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, VCOM Carolinas Campus, Class of 2027

B.S. Clemson University, Class of 2022

Natalie is a second-year medical student at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine—Carolinas campus and a proud South Carolina native. She is passionate about improving the health of her community by promoting healthy lifestyles, advocating for underserved areas, and strengthening the relationship between medicine and the people of South Carolina. After attending the 2024 SC-DTAG Conference and volunteering at Gibbs Cancer Center to provide free skin cancer screenings, she developed a strong interest in dermatology, particularly in rural areas. Driven by a desire to bridge healthcare gaps, she is eager to continue her advocacy work in public health by joining the Legislative Team for SC-DTAG, where she hopes to promote a healthier, happier community. With a commitment to both medicine and service, Natalie looks forward to expanding her knowledge and skills to better serve the people of South Carolina.

M.D. Candidate, USC School of Medicine Greenville, Class of 2026

B.S., Public Health Medical University of South Carolina Class of ****

Adarsh is a third-year medical student at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville (USCSOMG). Originally from Greenville, SC, and Cary, NC, he earned his B.S. in Public Health from the University of South Carolina. During his undergraduate studies, shadowing in dermatology sparked his interest in the specialty. Since beginning medical school, he has actively explored this interest through service, leadership, and research. As Co-President of the Dermatology Interest Group at USCSOMG during his M1-M2 years, he collaborated with local community members and organizations to provide sun safety education to elementary schools and the Greenville Drive. Adarsh is particularly interested in rheumatologic dermatology, emerging therapies, and medical education. He aspires to work closely with patients suffering from complex dermatological conditions and is passionate about expanding outreach initiatives and raising awareness for rare dermatological diseases.

D.O. Candidate, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, VCOM Carolinas Campus, Class of 2028

B.S., University of South Florida, Biomedical Sciences, Class of 2023

Diti is a first-year medical student at VCOM-Carolinas with a strong passion for dermatology, inspired by her firsthand observation of the significant impact dermatological health can have on individuals' lives. She graduated from the University of South Florida in 2023 and gained invaluable experience during her gap year as a medical assistant working with a dermatologist and Mohs surgeon in North Carolina. This exposure deepened her understanding of the critical need for education on skin health. Currently, Diti enjoys volunteering at Dermatology Nights at the St. Luke's Free Clinic near campus. She is dedicated to providing compassionate patient care and looks forward to continuing her growth in the field of dermatology.

M.D. Candidate, Medical University of South Carolina, Class of 2027

B.S., Biological Sciences, Clemson University, Class of 2022

Jules is a second-year medical student at the Medical University of South Carolina, originally hailing from Charleston, SC. She graduated from Clemson University in May 2022. Jules has developed a keen interest in dermatology and is dedicated to expanding her expertise in the field. She is particularly enthusiastic about advocacy efforts and the legislative and policy aspects of dermatology healthcare, aiming to forge meaningful connections with like-minded professionals.

MD Candidate, Medical University of South Carolina, Class of 2027

B.A., Hispanic Linguistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Class of 2022

Lydia is a second-year medical student at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), originally from Camden, South Carolina. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2022 with a degree in Hispanic Linguistics. Following her graduation, she completed a research year in the Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery at UNC Hospital, focusing on racial and ethnic health disparities in the management of colorectal cancer, particularly within local Hispanic communities. Lydia's experiences at UNC, combined with her Puerto Rican heritage, have ignited her passion for addressing health disparities within the Hispanic community, especially in the context of cancer prevention, treatment, and management. She is eager to further explore these issues through the field of dermatology.

M.D. Candidate, Medical University of South Carolina, Class of 2027

B.S. Biological Sciences, Clemson University, Class of 2022

Anna graduated from Clemson University in 2022 and is currently a second-year medical student at the Medical University of South Carolina. With a strong early interest in dermatology, she gained valuable experience working as a medical assistant at a private dermatology practice, where she assisted with Mohs surgeries, full-body skin exams, and various complex dermatologic cases. Her time in this role highlighted the significant impacts of sun exposure and skin cancer, fueling her passion for raising awareness about the importance of routine screenings and skin cancer prevention. During medical school, Anna has actively volunteered at free skin cancer screenings in the community and participated in Dermatology Nights at the CARES Free Medical Clinic. As a new member of the Skin Cancer Awareness Team for SC-DTAG, Anna is dedicated to expanding her expertise in dermatology and enhancing public knowledge through continuous education and advocacy.