Using AI for Dermatology Applications

Applying for a dermatology residency is a demanding and competitive process that requires careful preparation and a strategic approach. Multimodal large language models (LLMs) such as Gemini, Claude, ChatGPT, and Perplexity offer innovative ways to enhance the application and interview journey, making it smoother and more impactful. These tools can assist with personal statement writing, interview preparation, program research, application reviews, networking, and portfolio development, providing aspiring dermatologists with an edge in a highly competitive field.

Creating Personal Statements

The personal statement is one of the most critical components of any residency application. It provides a window into the applicant’s personality, motivation, and journey. ChatGPT and Claude are particularly well-suited for this task. ChatGPT, known for its conversational and engaging tone, can help medical students draft compelling narratives that highlight their unique stories and achievements. Meanwhile, Claude excels at refining technical or academic content, ensuring a polished and professional final product. Students can start by drafting a rough version of their personal statement and then use ChatGPT to add vibrancy and narrative appeal. Claude can subsequently enhance specific sections, such as linking research experiences to a passion for dermatology. To ensure that the personal statement maintains an authentic tone, students should revisit and edit the output, blending their voice with the AI’s suggestions.

Interview Practice

Residency interviews can be intimidating, but LLMs are excellent tools for preparation. ChatGPT is ideal for simulating interviews, offering a human-like experience where students can practice answering common questions. Start the conversation by telling the model that you are applying to dermatology residency, sharing information about your application and interests, and asking it to serve as an interviewer will initiate a high-quality, verbal, back-and-forth practice interview, after (or during) which you can ask for feedback about your responses and performance. 

Tailoring Resumes

Understanding the nuances of each residency program is crucial for tailoring applications and interviews. Perplexity stands out in this domain by aggregating up-to-date and accurate information from the web about different programs, including faculty interests, research opportunities, and curriculum details. Students can ask Perplexity program-specific questions, such as what distinguishes a particular institution, and use its insights to craft tailored responses during interviews. Claude complements this by organizing complex data into coherent summaries or tables, making it easier to compare programs based on factors such as clinical exposure or research focus.

Networking

Networking and communication are key aspects of the residency application process, as they help candidates build connections with faculty and program coordinators. ChatGPT can assist in drafting professional emails, such as thank-you notes to interviewers or follow-up messages expressing continued interest in a program. Perplexity offers guidance on professional etiquette and maintaining an impactful online presence, such as optimizing LinkedIn profiles to reflect academic and clinical achievements.

Portfolio Development

Finally, portfolio development is an area where Gemini and Claude can work synergistically. Gemini’s multimodal capabilities allow for the creation of visually appealing slides and charts that showcase research projects or clinical experiences. For instance, students can input data points, and Gemini can help design a professional slide for presentations. Claude, on the other hand, provides structured guidance for writing detailed but concise descriptions of projects and achievements, ensuring that the portfolio flows logically and effectively highlights the candidate’s capabilities.

By leveraging the unique strengths of these LLMs, medical students can not only streamline the residency application process but also elevate the quality of their submissions and interviews. Thoughtful integration of these tools ensures that applicants present themselves as polished, prepared, and standout candidates while maintaining authenticity and personal connection. These technologies are not just about efficiency—they are powerful allies in crafting an application journey that reflects each candidate’s unique story and potential.

Ramie Aly Fathy, MD

• Resident, PGY-3
• Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University