Testimonies

I had a truly rewarding experience during my pediatric endocrinology fellowship at the University of Virginia. Several aspects make this program stand out among others. UVa is widely recognized as one of the top academic institutions in the region, and its affiliated children’s hospital is nationally ranked, offering an exceptional environment for training.

One of the program’s greatest strengths is its ideal size. As a medium-sized fellowship, it provides the perfect balance, offering robust clinical exposure while ensuring personalized, one-on-one mentorship. The faculty includes endocrinologists trained at top institutions across the country, each bringing a unique perspective to patient care and education.

The clinical training is comprehensive and prepares fellows exceptionally well for independent practice. You’ll manage a wide spectrum of cases—from common conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and growth concerns to rare and complex diagnoses such as multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndromes. This breadth of experience ensures that graduates feel confident and capable in any setting.

Another distinctive feature of the program is the strong collaboration between the pediatric and adult endocrinology divisions. Joint conferences and research initiatives foster a rich academic environment and open doors for interdisciplinary learning. UVa is also a leader in artificial pancreas technology research, offering fellows exciting opportunities to engage in cutting-edge innovation.

Beyond the hospital, life in Charlottesville is a true highlight. This charming town offers a vibrant community, stunning natural beauty, and an impressive culinary scene, ranked among the top in the country for restaurants per capita. It’s also a wonderful place to raise a family and build lasting friendships.

I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to train alongside such dedicated and inspiring pediatric endocrinologists. They not only shaped my clinical skills but also instilled in me the importance of leadership and advancing the field through research and education.

During my fellowship at the University of Virginia, I gained far more than just extensive clinical experience—I found a lifelong community of mentors and friends. These individuals not only guided me on my path to becoming a clinician-researcher, but they also continue to be a source of support for clinical questions, career advice, and research collaboration.

What truly sets the Pediatric Endocrinology Department at UVA apart is the exceptional caliber of the people who work there. It’s a thoughtfully assembled team of individuals who share a deep passion for learning, teaching, and improving the lives of children. This environment fosters curiosity, encourages growth, and allows young clinicians the space to ask questions, make mistakes, and evolve.

Fellowship can be incredibly demanding, but having a team that genuinely cares makes all the difference. Whether it’s taking time during a busy clinic to explain a complex concept or offering encouragement during moments of uncertainty, the faculty at UVA exemplify what it means to be both outstanding educators and compassionate colleagues.

When I began my fellowship, I envisioned a purely clinical career. However, through the process of developing my own research project, I discovered a new passion—and was fully supported in pursuing it. My primary mentor, Dr. Mark DeBoer, played a pivotal role in this journey. He connected me with ongoing projects, generously shared his expertise in grant writing, and guided me through each step of the research process.

Dr. Jim Nataro’s monthly grant-writing program for clinician-researchers, along with the resources of the Child Health Research Center, provided invaluable support. The Center fosters collaboration between basic science and clinical researchers through seminars, small group sessions, and research-in-progress presentations. Their commitment to mentorship and education is evident in every interaction.

Additionally, the Center for Diabetes Technology offered exciting opportunities to engage in cutting-edge pediatric diabetes research, surrounded by brilliant minds pushing the boundaries of technology and care.

All of these experiences profoundly shaped my development as a clinician-scientist. I am deeply grateful for the education, mentorship, and unwavering support I received during my fellowship at the University of Virginia.