“The speaker panel showcased incredible volunteerism and their diverse experiences and journeys into rheumatology. Their relaxed nature and camaraderie helped me solidify my decision to go into rheumatology.
“It was a fantastic session (although the presenters outnumbered the attendees) that was smoothly conducted by ACR staff and the FIT Subcommittee, who had a level of professionalism and attention toward trainees I had not seen in other organizations.
“They even conducted a session on personal statement writing, which was incredibly timely because I started working on my applications a week later. That session actually inspired me to apply for the FIT Subcommittee, because I felt I had directly benefited from them and felt I owed it to others to pass on that experience. From that first 6:30 a.m. meeting I was hooked on being an active ACR member. The standing committees I have liaised with have all been incredibly welcoming, and I have appreciated the leadership and support from other members who helped me integrate. Additionally, the tremendous responsibility of helping plan educational activities for my fellow fellows, nationally, has pushed me to stay current on what is happening in the rheumatology world in terms of advocacy, education and scientific knowledge. I have now had a chance to meet hundreds of fellows through the ACR meetings and am proud of the diversity, scholarship and fervor for life I see in us as young professionals. The friendships I have developed with the other FIT members I hope to keep for a lifetime.
“Now in my third year on the FIT Subcommittee, I have had an opportunity to see how the FITs have become, and continue to be, integrated more and more into the structure of the ACR. To me, having voting members on all the major committees shows tremendous investment by the organization.
“Meeting with the fellow members at the Annual Meeting and recent leadership conference has shown me the future is bright in terms of future leadership, as well.
“Additionally, the ever-increasing opportunities for special project volunteering, advocacy training, journal and scientific writing, and educational options will allow for even more fellow participation in the future. I hope that all young rheumatologists consider volunteering with the ACR. It has been an enriching and rewarding experience for me.”
The ACR Empowers Its Members
Mark’s experience mirrors that of many of us whose first real exposure to the ACR was as a new volunteer. It is an entree into a world of varied opportunities for professional and personal growth, interactions with wonderful colleagues and great fun. The ACR empowers rheumatology professionals to excel in their specialty. One way you can be empowered is to volunteer with the ACR. To nominate a colleague and/or to self-nominate visit www.rheumatology.org by June 1.
