Zane Sejdiu, 2023-24

Since my time as a Masterpiece Fellow, life has been a whirlwind of learning and growth! I’m currently taking a research year between my third and fourth years of medical school at St. Luke’s University, working under the amazing Dr. Andrew C. Krakowski, a pediatric dermatologist and program director. Every day in the clinic is a new adventure—I've had the privilege of seeing patients from 6 days old to 99 years young, and the variety keeps me on my toes. I’ve also jumped into some exciting research projects and even had the chance to present at a few conferences. I've also found time to travel with my family and reconnect with my support system, which has been so important during this journey.

On top of that, I’m proud to have hosted another Sun Run event at Drexel College of Medicine. Sun Run is the sunscreen initiative I started, where we provide free sunscreen to marathon runners and volunteers. During PHL24, a 24-hour stair climbing event at the Rocky steps, we gave out sunscreen to make sure everyone stayed protected. This initiative is near and dear to my heart, helping ensure that cancer patients in Philadelphia and Camden County never have to worry about basic needs like food or shelter because of their diagnosis. It's been a rewarding, humbling, and energizing experience, and I can't wait to see where this journey takes me next!

My passion for dermatology really took off during the summer after my first year of medical school, when I had the opportunity to shadow in the dermatology department at Temple Hospital. The complexities and visual nature of dermatology fascinated me, but what truly solidified my interest was during my third-year pediatric rotation. I witnessed firsthand how skin conditions can deeply affect a child’s life. I shadowed a child with cutaneous lupus who had to miss school due to fear of being bullied for her appearance, and that experience moved me to my core. I joined Made A Masterpiece because I wanted to be part of an organization that uplifts kids with skin conditions and helps them embrace the skin they’re in.

Although I didn’t work directly with the kids during my fellowship, it was still difficult to witness the emotional challenges they face, especially when it comes to the stigma surrounding visible skin conditions. Even from a distance, it’s hard to see how isolating this can be for them. As a medical student, I had to learn how to balance my clinical knowledge with the emotional weight of these situations.

Hands down, working alongside Dr. Bree at the Coalition of Skin Diseases during the American Academy of Dermatology meeting was one of the highlights of being a fellow. Meeting other nonprofit leaders and hearing their stories was so inspiring, and it gave me a much broader understanding of the impact we can make.

I think it’s so important for children to remember that their skin condition does not define them. They are beautiful and worthy just as they are, and that’s something I hope every child internalizes. As for staying positive, I find that focusing on what’s within your control and celebrating even the smallest victories helps a lot. Having a support system that sees and values you beyond your appearance is also incredibly uplifting.

I’d encourage kids who want to help others to find something they’re genuinely passionate about—because that’s what fuels meaningful change. It doesn’t always take grand gestures to make a difference; small, everyday acts of kindness and support can have a profound impact on someone’s life. Stay curious, keep learning, and don’t hesitate to take that first step toward making a positive difference in the world!