Mentoring matters
Answers in Practice
By Matthew Walsh, Member Communications Specialist , January 1, 2026
The AAD recently launched a new Flash Mentoring program, which provides focused, one-time mentoring with no minimum time commitments. DermWorld talks to Amy Y. Chen, MD, FAAD, chair of the AAD’s Mentoring Workgroup, about the program and why members should make use of it.
DermWorld: What is Flash Mentoring?
DermWorld: Why was it developed?
Dr. Chen: Sometimes during your career, you may have a question that arises regarding certain specific circumstances, such as career change, work-life balance, or promotion, and you just need to talk to somebody who has gone through it before about how to handle the situation at that moment. The Academy did not offer such resources before. With the launch of Flash Mentoring, members now have the opportunity for these one-time, short-term mentor/mentee relationships with no set time commitment. If the relationship turns into a long-term relationship organically, that’s great too, but the idea is to provide a more issue-focused interaction.
DermWorld: Why — and in what ways — should members make use of it?
Dr. Chen: The best scenario in which to make use of Flash Mentoring is when you have a one-off, specific, focused question. Flash Mentoring will allow you to connect with people who have the knowledge and experience to provide you with needed guidance.
DermWorld: How can members participate?
Dr. Chen: You can participate and explore further by visiting the Flash Mentoring webpage.
Amy Y. Chen, MD, FAAD, is the chair of the AAD’s Mentoring Workgroup.
