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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2013; 26(04): 212-217
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1356719
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Academic Goals in Surgery

Joshua I. S. Bleier
1   Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
,
Brian Kann
1   Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
20 November 2013 (online)

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Abstract

The development of an academic surgical career can be an overwhelming prospect, and one that is not intuitive. Establishing a structured plan and support structure is critical to success. Starting a successful academic surgical career begins with defining one's academic goals within several broad categories: personal goals, academic goals, research goals, educational goals, and financial goals. Learning the art of self-promotion is the means by which many of these goals are achieved. It is important to realize that achieving these goals requires a delicate personal balance between work and home life, and the key ways in which to achieve success require establishment of well thought-out goals, a reliable support structure, realistic and clear expectations, and frequent re-evaluation.

Keywords

academic goals - surgical career - self-promotion - mentors
 

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