Dr. Dunbar is a Fellow, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, at the University of Florida.Dr. Lottenberg is Professor of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, at the University of Florida.

As I reflect on my experience now, I find myself wondering how I was fortunate enough to strengthen my relationship with my current mentor and to create new relationships that I believe will be career-long. The Clinical Research Training Institute was a fulfilling experience that truly “lit a fire in my belly.” The week consisted of small group sessions for research project refinement under the direction/supervision of hematology/oncology faculty, statisticians, epidemiologists, and clinical researchers. It was a nervous first day of initially presenting research projects, but that all quickly melted away as all the program participants interacted; each trainee worked one-on-one with faculty and other trainees to refine our research projects during the week in small group sessions. I was constantly filled with the feeling that everyone involved wanted nothing but success for the trainees and their projects. At the end of the week, the trainees presented refined projects that were noticeably improved with the help of everyone involved in Clinical Research Training Institute, including other trainees.

In research, it is often easy to become so engrossed in what you are doing that you cannot see the flaws or think beyond your current plans. However, during my week at the Clinical Research Training Institute my tunnel-vision eyes were opened to aspects of clinical research that enhanced the project and made me and my project better than I would have thought possible. Not only did new and relevant ideas emerge through the conference, but so did new collaborations and mentor/mentee relationships. I already had a great relationship with my mentor — he has my same passion, a strong background in my area of interest and clinical research, and genuine willingness to help me in any way possible — but new personal examples displayed at the Clinical Research Training Institute (even by my mentor) illustrated to all the trainees how to make their research even better and stronger. There were excellent faculty lectures in areas relevant to career development and clinical research in hematology/oncology. Another extremely inspirational aspect experienced throughout the week was the faculty presentations on career perspectives. The faculty shared their personal experiences in clinical medicine, research, career development, and the balance between personal and professional life. It was amazing to hear experts in our field speak about their experiences having been where I am now. Everyone involved with the Clinical Research Training Institute wanted to be there and it showed. I could not ask for a better experience. I am so inspired by all involved in the Clinical Research Training Institute project. It is a remarkable example for young investigators in any area of medicine. I can only imagine that the ASH Clinical Research Training Institute, as well as my many mentor/mentee relationships, will simply improve with time.

Throughout my academic endeavors I have had excellent mentors. This was particularly true for fellowship training, and my experiences have had a profound influence on how I provide guidance to fellows and graduate students. Participation in the ASH Clinical Research Training Institute has taken the mentoring experience to a new level, and the summer workshop has become a highlight of my professional activities. The curriculum and interactive format provide an exceptional framework for enhancing research project and career development. However, it is the synergism of a faculty dedicated to clinical research training and the talented and highly motivated trainees working together that make the mentoring process so effective for all participants. The small group sessions and one-on-one interaction with trainees are particularly rewarding because of the ability to provide individual attention and to readily obtain feedback. As the week moves along, I find my contributions are amplified by the input provided to each of us by the biostatisticians, faculty, and other trainees. It is gratifying to see the refinement of each project plan progress at such a rapid pace. The workshop is only the beginning of my involvement as a mentor. I look forward to staying in contact with members of the small group to discuss research progress, as well as getting together with all the trainees at the Clinical Research Training Institute session at the ASH annual meeting. Participation in the ongoing career development process makes it so worthwhile for me. I have certainly received more than I have given in my association with the Clinical Research Training Institute and it has been a wonderful experience.