Why Mayo: I was particularly drawn to Mayo Clinic for the strong surgical training in four-quadrant abdominal surgery. The apprenticeship model was also appealing because of the strong mentorship experience that it provided

How did the program help you achieve your career goals? I enjoyed having the opportunity to participate in various aspects of the academic environment of the fellowship at Mayo, particularly with education and quality care. This certainly played a role in my job search to join an academic practice to pursue my passion for education.

How did Mayo Clinic's mentorship model impact your training? For a strong surgical program like Mayo's, the mentorship model is an ideal approach to training. The longitudinal experience with two surgeons at a time certainly accelerated my autonomy and confidence with surgical skills. I also enjoyed having the 10- to 12-week opportunity to get to know the surgeons that with whom I was working.

What was it like living in Rochester? Rochester is a cozy little city with fun restaurants a downtown area. It is definitely a comfortable and affordable place to live. I do appreciate the close proximity to Minneapolis for some of the city experiences, like the theater.

What were your favorite things to experience in Rochester? Bitter and Pour, Five West, Thai Pop, and Crave are some of the favorite places to go downtown. One of the fun things about Minnesota in general is how much people enjoy coming together for festivals. There are always fun events like Thursdays Downtown and RochesterFest in the summer and SocialICE in the winter. The gathering even in the cold winters brings a fun atmosphere to the city.

Why Mayo: I chose Mayo clinic for the excellent reputation in surgical training in gynecologic oncology. When speaking with the fellows during interviews it was clear the surgical volume and complexity, as well as one-on-one surgical mentorship, supported excellent clinical training. I was also interested in formal research and statistics training and the fellowship offered that.

How did the program help you achieve your career goals? The fellowship prepared me for the full breadth of practice in gynecologic oncology, both medical and surgical oncology. It gave me the confidence and skills to tackle complex surgery right out of fellowship and to teach residents at my current academic practice. It gave me the training and tools to be able to conduct research.

How did Mayo Clinic's mentorship model impact your training? One of the best things about training at Mayo was the opportunity to work with surgical and medical leaders in the field of gynecologic oncology. I was able to work one-on-one with each faculty and develop my skills in a linear fashion during each rotation. I am grateful for the time and trust they invested in me as a trainee.

What was it like living in Rochester? Rochester is a stress-free, low-cost of living city in a progressive state in the Midwest. Summers were beautiful and Minneapolis and St. Paul are a short drive away for a weekend getaway.

What were your favorite things to experience in Rochester? There were a ton of outdoor trails and parks to enjoy in Rochester, and nearby lakes and rivers for kayaking. There are plenty of restaurant options. I still miss some of the excellent made from scratch ice cream at Flapdoodles!

Why Mayo: Mayo offered the perfect balance of academics and surgical training. I was inspired by the history that carries Mayo as well as the pursuit of excellence in patient care.

How did the program help you achieve your career goals? I became a well-rounded gynecologist oncologist. I received the preparation I needed to go into practice. I gained confidence and cherish the values shared at Mayo.

How did Mayo Clinic's mentorship model impact your training? The mentorship model made my experience unforgettable. I formed personal and professional relationships that will last a lifetime. My mentors molded me to find the best version of myself.

What was it like living in Rochester? Rochester was a pleasant surprise. I enjoyed all the outdoor activities that the city offered as well as closeness to the urban life in the Cities.

What were your favorite things to experience in Rochester? My favorite thing about my experience in Rochester was the people. I miss the warmth and kindness of my colleagues and friends. The collaboration and focus on the well-being of patients.