Retina Today: When did you first know that you wanted to become a retina specialist?
I first discovered retina at the University of Miami as a medical student applying into ophthalmology with Audina Berrocal, MD, as my mentor. I have always known that I wanted to work with kids, and seeing her incredible work as a pediatric retina specialist further inspired me to pursue pediatric retina. During my first year of residency at the University of Southern California (USC), the amazing patients and pathology I saw sealed the deal. The diversity and surgical creativity in retina, long-lasting relationships with patients, and the renaissance of new retinal therapies continue to inspire me daily.
RT: Who do you look to as mentors in the field?
Selfless and dedicated mentorship has been the cornerstone of my education and training. Dr. Berrocal continues to support me closely to this day. During my fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute, Sunil K. Srivastava, MD; Aleksandra Rachitskaya, MD; Peter Kaiser, MD; Katherine Talcott, MD; and Jonathan Sears, MD, along with each of the retina faculty members have shown me incredible support and mentorship. They inspire me to pursue excellence in all dimensions of my career, from clinical care to surgery, research, and leadership.
I could write several paragraphs about my many mentors, from Bascom Palmer, USC, and the Cole Eye Institute!
RT: What has been one of the most memorable experiences of your fellowship thus far?
During my fellowship, Dr. Srivastava and Prithvi Mruthyunjaya, MD, created the Cole Eye Institute and Byers Eye Institute surgical retina rounds (COBRA) to share and discuss surgical education, particularly for retina fellows. During the 2022 AAO annual meeting, COBRA hosted its first live surgical rounds in Chicago. It was a highlight of my fellowship. All the fellows, myself included, had so much fun presenting cases with the dynamic and engaging faculty.
FIRST CAREER MILESTONE
Dr. Hua is joining Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, as an assistant professor of Ophthalmology in adult and pediatric retina.
RT: What are you hoping to accomplish once you are in practice?
In 5 to 10 years, I see myself as a faculty member at an academic center practicing adult and pediatric retina care. I plan to work with trainees to shape the future of ophthalmology and retina. In addition, I will continue research in retinopathy of prematurity, pediatric retinal imaging, clinical trials, and gender and racial disparities in retina. I also plan on continuing leadership and advocacy at the society level, including with the Vit-Buckle Society, Women in Ophthalmology, American Society of Retina Specialists, and AAO.
RT: What advice can you offer to residents who are considering retina?
If you have any inkling of pursuing a retina fellowship, start with a strong clinical foundation and develop comfort and skill with retina procedures. Identify mentors early, and start research: the earlier, the better!
