IN MY OWN WORDS: THE VALUE OF STORYTELLING TO SHAPE THE ACADEMIC MEDICINE JOURNEY.

As young physicians, we are trained to listen to our patients as they relay a set of signs, symptoms, and feelings to us, and then to translate their stories into a diagnosis and treatment plan that improves their health status and overall quality of life. The art of storytelling is crucial in disseminating diverse and innovative perspectives in academic medicine. First, stories from patients play a pivotal role in defining new areas of research focus for building the careers of physician-scientists, allowing them to take full advantage of the depth and breadth of their clinical and research skills. Second, sharing our own personal stories and hearing the stories of our colleagues provides fertile ground for engaging a diverse workforce in academic medical centers. This presentation will highlight how the scientific and leadership career of an academic physician was shaped by her own journey and those of her patients.