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Dr. Herbert Chen, Professor of Surgery and Surgeon-in-Chief at The University of Alabama at Birmingham Health System, and Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at UAB School of Medicine, reflects on his journey from being inspired by his father, a retired orthopedic surgeon, to becoming a trailblazer in academic surgery. He highlights how mentorship and a pivotal research year shaped his career and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing education and mentorship in surgical leadership. Dr. Chen also explores the adaptability required in leadership, the value of practical experience over formal degrees, and aligning career goals with institutional expectations.

Takeaways

• Mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping one's career in surgery.
• Effective leaders in surgery must prioritize education and mentorship for trainees.
• Leadership requires a mindset focused on serving others rather than personal ambitions.
• Practical experience is more valuable than formal degrees in leadership roles.
• Young faculty should focus on building their expertise before seeking leadership positions.
• Alignment between personal career goals and job expectations is essential.
• NIH funding can enhance leadership prospects but is not the only path to success.
• Choosing a specialty should be based on passion rather than potential for leadership.