From Anxiety to Empowerment: A Supportive Medical Conference Experience
I arrived at the Diversity in Dermatology (DID) conference feeling like a nervous wreck. I didn’t know what to wear, who I’d meet, or what to expect. As a first-time attendee, I had no reference point, just excitement and a lot of anxiety. One thing that calmed me was knowing my mentor, a prominent leader in this space, would be there and had a few introductions lined up. I had no idea just how transformational this experience would be.
"I stepped outside my comfort zone, and the sky didn’t fall, in fact, it opened up."
Digital Connection that Made Real-World Impact
Before the event even began, I received access to the conference app. I assumed it would just house the agenda, but I quickly realized it was so much more. It was an entire community. Attendees could view each other’s profiles, read bios, and engage in conversation before ever stepping foot in the venue. The discussion threads were buzzing with energy attendees asking questions, sharing advice, and hyping each other up. It shifted my perspective. By the time I arrived in person, I recognized familiar faces and felt less like a stranger and more like a welcomed guest.
Conference Participation That Felt Fun and Purposeful
The leaders of DID really understood the assignment when it came to engagement. From the start, DID made sure we felt seen. Every session came with raffle tickets and the chance to win actual prizes you’d want. Think Apple AirPods, Stanley cups, Bluetooth speakers, and Amazon and Starbucks gift cards. And even if you didn’t win the raffles, simply showing up meant walking away with at least $50 worth of gift cards. That simple gesture set the tone: this conference was about giving value, not just taking your time.
Networking in Healthcare Came Naturally in This Welcoming and Empowering Space
Walking into the conference was like walking into a reunion of people I hadn’t met yet. This is a conference where everyone knows your name.
“What I loved most was that it was big enough to network and small enough to feel seen.”
Career Lounge: Real Talk, Real Tools
One of the highlights for me was the Career Lounge. These weren’t surface-level workshops. These were intimate, roundtable discussions covering topics like:
- Resume review
- Contract negotiation
- Navigating male-dominated spaces
- Starting and running a business
- Mentorship
- Securing speaking engagements with the pharmaceutical industry
We weren’t just listening we were participating. These were real discussions led by people who had been where we are. The kind of wisdom you usually have to chase down came freely. The leaders answered questions with compassion, transparency, and actionable advice. The authenticity of those moments is something I’ll carry with me for a long time.
Financial Empowerment: Building Confidence Beyond the Clinic
The financial empowerment session with Risha Bellomo stood out as a game changer. It happened early in the conference, which I think was perfect. It laid the groundwork for everything else we’d learn. Risha focused on practical goals:
- Reducing financial stress and anxiety
- Making informed decisions
- Achieving financial freedom
- Gaining confidence to navigate the financial system
This session grounded the rest of the conference in reality. As we soaked in knowledge about dermatology and business, it reminded us that financial literacy is the foundation to build anything on. She offered tangible steps to budgeting, saving, and investing. It was a wake-up call that understanding finances isn’t just helpful it’s critical for any professional, especially in healthcare. It reminded me that success isn’t just about clinical skillsets, it’s also about financial literacy
"DID didn’t just talk the talk about diversity, it embodied it."
Career Growth in Dermatology Through Every Stage of the Journey
What struck me most was the actual diversity not just in race or background, but in career stage. There were professionals with 40 years of dermatology experience and others who had landed their first job just months ago. Students, nurses, doctors, pharmacists we were all there learning together.
Whether you’re an RN, a DNP, or just exploring the field, the content was accessible and relevant.The product theaters delivered data-rich, accessible education on disease processes and treatment best practices, ensuring that everyone from novice to expert walked away with something new and useful.
“Everyone left with tools, connections, and a next step.”
Work Hard, Play Hard: The Derby Royale Reception
Of course, DID knows how to have fun too. While the conference was packed with insights, the Derby Royale Reception was pure joy. Hosted at the iconic Churchill Downs (yes, home of the Kentucky Derby), this “Around the World” themed event invited us to dress to impress in floral prints and extravagant hats. It was everything you’d expect and more casino games (with funny money), contests for best hats, and awards for community members who had gone above and beyond. The energy was contagious, and it was the perfect way to unwind, connect, and just have fun.
My Takeaways as a First-Time Diversity in Dermatology Conference Attendee
As I reflect, here’s what I’m carrying forward:
- Leadership looks like lifting others up and the leaders at DID do that beautifully.
- We can start from anywhere and build wealth.
- You have to be in the room to build relationships. The opportunities are there you just have to say “yes” and show up.
DID offered a room full of people who genuinely cared. Leaders who showed up for each and every attendee. And attendees who were there to grow, share, and support one another.
And while I didn’t walk away with a raffle prize (sadly!), I left with something far more valuable: clarity, confidence, and community. I stepped outside my comfort zone, and the sky didn’t fall. In fact, it opened up
If you’re thinking about attending the Diversity in Dematology conference next year or stepping out of your comfort zone in any way let this be your sign.
Jade Dupree Trevino, RN is a dermatology nurse and emerging health writer with a passion for inclusive skin health and patient education. With experience spanning clinical care, teaching, and business innovation, she is building a voice at the intersection of medicine and entrepreneurship. Her work aims to bridge clinical insight with real-world impact through writing, collaboration, and leadership in the dermatology space.