Congratulations 2023 DURM Scholarship Recipients

Congratulations to our 2023 DURM Scholars, Alex Bang and Iesha Ticknor!

UW Dermatology is delighted to welcome Alex and Iesha as they rotate through our division this summer. Out of dozens of worthy applicants who applied last March, Alex and Iesha were selected by faculty from the Division of Dermatology to receive a $2000 scholarship based on their academic excellence and interest in pursuing a career in dermatology.

The DURM Visiting Medical Student Rotation Scholarship provides funding for URM (underrepresented in medicine) students to experience the outstanding training programs at the University of Washington. The 4-week elective dermatology rotation connects visiting students with UW Dermatology faculty and trainees for clinical and research exposure at several UW Medicine locations, and provides opportunities for mentorship and collaboration. 

Students attend didactics, UW conferences, and site specific educational rotations while taking part in division-wide and residency-centered events. Outside clinical and research exposure, students are able to meet and socialize with UW medical students and residents, explore the UW community and get a taste of life in Seattle. 

Meet Our 2023 DURM Scholars

Alex Bang

Pronouns: he/him/his

Undergraduate School: University of California, Berkeley

Medical School: Joan & Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University

Clinical & Research Interests: My clinical and research interests in dermatology include complex medical dermatology, skin of color, care of LGBTQIA+ patients, and supportive oncodermatology. 

Future Career Plans/Goals: I am hoping to pursue a career in academic medicine where I can advocate and care for underserved patients, especially those who are LGBTQIA+, and patients experiencing skin toxicity from cancer therapy. In addition, I hope to provide mentorship to those who are underrepresented in medicine and come from disadvantaged backgrounds. 

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: I am a huge foodie and love to try foods from all cultures to expand my palate, as well as trying to explore and travel the entire world! I love to bike around Central Park, especially in the fall and spring. 

Iesha Ticknor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Undergraduate School: University of Washington

Medical School: Kaiser Permanente School of Medicine

Clinical & Research Interests: My clinical and research interests include medical and skin of color dermatology, alopecia, equity inclusion and diversity (EID) work, and health disparities.

Future Career Plans/Goals: In my career, I would love to advance skin of color dermatology and continue to work with underserved communities. Additionally, I hope to be involved in EID work within academia and medical education. 

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: In my free time I love to play tennis, travel, go on long walks while listening to my favorite podcasts, and doing DIY projects with my Cricut!