In 2010, I joined Bryn Mawr Communications (BMC) with no direct experience in ophthalmology. Having graduated with a degree in journalism, I had mastered the art of researching a story, tracking down and interviewing sources, and crafting a strong lede. But, on my first day at BMC, I didn’t know the retina from the cornea. Fortunately, as I’d come to find out, the inquisitive nature that inspired my interest in journalism would be met by a group of experts willing to answer any and every question I posed. In fact, one of my earliest impressions of the ophthalmic community was that it was filled with individuals who possessed a true willingness to share their knowledge.
With the memories of my first OR visitation (a retinal detachment case) and first ophthalmology meeting (ARVO 2011) still fresh in my mind, I recall well what it’s like to be new to (the outskirts of) this nuanced field. Since 2013, I’ve also worked as the Editor-in-Chief of MillennialEYE, BMC’s digital publication for aspiring and young ophthalmologists. This role keeps me connected to many individuals who are early in their careers and gives me the opportunity to follow along on their paths forward. The energy, enthusiasm, and curiosity of these future practitioners is contagious, and I find myself learning from them regularly (eg, Clubhouse).
In this issue of GT, several aspiring and young ophthalmologists share insights into what’s on their minds and radars today and in the aftermath of a particularly tumultuous 2 years. Additionally, a group of ophthalmic instructors reflects on the lessons learned from working with younger generations. The opportunities to learn in this field are boundless, and there is no shortage of educators of all ages and levels of experience. To all those who continue to entertain novice lines of questioning—thank you.
