Retina Today: When did you first know that you wanted to become a retina specialist?
My fascination with retina began during my ocular pathology fellowship under the mentorship of Sander R. Dubovy, MD, at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. I joined Dr. Dubovy in the retina clinic and gained a deeper understanding of retina pathology. By participating in grand rounds and interacting with amazing retina surgeons, I realized that the creativity, fine motor skills, and pattern-recognition required to be a great vitreoretinal surgeon, combined with the dynamic and fast-paced technological advancements, are aspects that I really enjoy.
RT: Who do you look to as mentors in the field?
During my residency at Case Western Reserve University, I had outstanding mentors, including Warren Sobol, MD; Shree Kurup, MD; Jose J. Echegaray, MD; and Daniel Weidenthal, MD. Their contagious enthusiasm for retina and dedication to teaching influenced my decision to pursue a retina fellowship.
Throughout my fellowship, I learned from some of the most incredible retina mentors in the field. Lejla Vajzovic, MD, and Xi Chen, MD, PhD, provided invaluable mentorship throughout my fellowship, particularly during my first months. Glenn Jaffe, MD, and Dilraj Grewal, MD, showed me that being precise and adaptable are incredible traits to develop as a surgeon. Sharon Fekrat, MD, and Eric Postel, MD, taught me how to connect with patients and colleagues in more meaningful ways. Durga S. Borkar, MD, MMCi, guided me through complex surgical cases. Finally, Cynthia A. Toth, MD, and Dr. Chen were wonderful research mentors who inspired my passion for teaching and pediatric retina. All my mentors have been incredibly supportive, and I consider each of them life-long mentors.
RT: What has been one of the most memorable experiences of your fellowship thus far?
While my fellowship offered numerous memorable clinical and surgical experiences, the vibrant and supportive culture at Duke really enhanced this experience. I enjoyed getting to know my attendings, co-fellows, and residents outside of the clinical setting. Whether it’s bonding over Dr. Vajzovic’s lively annual holiday axe throwing soiree, enjoying fruit picking and ice cream at a local farm, or gathering for journal club meetings, these moments have cultivated lasting friendships that I will cherish for years to come.
FIRST CAREER MILESTONE
Dr. Zhou has joined the faculty at the University of Chicago.
RT: What advice can you offer to residents who are considering retina?
Seek out as many opportunities as possible to gain exposure to surgical and medical retina during residency. Find mentors who are passionate about the field and can offer you advice and help you assess if this is the right fit for you. Lastly, attend retina meetings; they are great networking opportunities.
