title: Getting started in academic cardiothoracic surgery.
abstract: Preparing to begin a career in academic cardiothoracic surgery requires forethought and desire. Success mandates honesty, discipline, opportunity, and support. This article will attempt to review some fundamental concepts important in starting such an academic career. The thoughts are somewhat personal and not meant to be inclusive. The article will briefly discuss the following issues: choosing the first job, transitions, effective time management, developing clinical confidence, the continued need for mentorship, developing educational value, developing a philosophy of academic growth, intellectual and emotional honesty, myths, mental and physical health, and keys to success.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
authors.forename: E D
authors.initials: ED
authors.lastname: Verrier
mesh_terms: D002321:Career Choice; D002322:Career Mobility; D002983:Clinical Competence; D005180:Faculty, Medical; D012109:Research Support as Topic; D013903:Thoracic Surgery / Q000193:education