I truly believe that an observership can be much more than simply watching. It can be an opportunity to connect with people who inspire you, challenge your way of thinking, and sometimes even change how you see your future career. I had the privilege of spending this past month with @Alex_Kim_HIPEC, an outstanding surgical oncologist at @UTSWMedCenter Dr. Kim performs one of the most complex procedures in cancer care called HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) for patients with peritoneal surface malignancies. Beyond the OR, he is deeply committed to translational research aimed at understanding these complex and relatively understudied diseases, identifying new therapeutic targets and molecular markers that may ultimately improve outcomes for patients with peritoneal metastases and mesothelioma. This was truly inspiring for me because it helped me understand that surgical oncology is not only about removing cancer. It is also about understanding this constantly evolving disease process and using research to develop better therapeutic approaches for patients. As part of the Surg Onc Team 1, I also had the opportunity to meet PGY-4 Joshua Abolarin, PGY-3 @RomaRajMD, and PGY-1 @NFatimahMD. They are wonderful people who made me feel like part of their team from Day 1—taking me along for rounds, conferences, weekend calls, and always taking the time to answer my questions. I’m equally grateful to the entire Surgical Oncology faculty, @MPorembka, @ADannMD, @AdamYopp, @MansourSurgOnc as well as all the residents @UTSWSurgeryLife , for welcoming me and allowing me to observe, learn, and experience their cases. A special thank you to @PatricioPolanc0 for connecting me with Dr. Kim and making this experience possible. One piece of advice from Dr. Kim that stayed with me: “Think about what is most important to you, and ask yourself how many hours a day you spend on it, because the only thing you can’t get back is time.” After this experience, I’m more convinced than ever that I want to pursue an academic career in surgical oncology, combining clinical practice with translational research. I hope to contribute to meaningful research that bridges the gap between scientific discoveries and patient care, ultimately making a tangible impact on the lives of cancer patients. #SurgicalOncology #SurgicalResearch #CancerResearch #AcademicSurgery #HIPEC