AWS Blog Library
The AWS Blog is a dynamic platform that amplifies the voices and experiences of women in surgery. Since its inception in 2013, the blog has evolved into a vibrant community space where surgeons, residents, and medical students share personal narratives, professional insights, and reflections on topics ranging from mentorship and leadership to wellness and diversity.
With contributions from members worldwide, the blog fosters connection, inspiration, and advocacy, embodying AWS’s mission to empower women surgeons at every stage of their careers.
Explore the latest stories here and find comfort in knowing that you are not alone and your voice will be heard at AWS.
Before I am a Surgeon: Choosing Womanhood Without Leaving Surgery Behind.
By: Daniela H. Rodriguez Manrique "Since you want to become a wife and have kids," he said, "are you sure you want to do surgery?"...
Mentorship Governs Your Relationship with Research
By: Ambreen Deol What decides whether you fall in love with research or avoid it altogether as your career takes shape? Your capabilities and academic...
Financial Planning Considerations for Surgical Trainees: Webinar Highlights
Authors: Camila R. Guetter, MD MPH*; Rachel E. Mooney, MD*; Alizeh Abbas, MD; Kylie Dickerson, MD *Indicates co-first authors. This blog summarizes key advice and...
Structural Inclusion in Surgery: Above Visibility, Beyond Pride
David S. Shapiro, MD, MPH, CPHQ, MEd, FACS, FCCM Chair, Connecticut Committee on Trauma; Chair, ACS Stop the Bleed Program Chair This is a special...
Dual Identity
By Keerat Bains This is a special edition blog post presented in partnership with the Association of Out Surgeons & Allies (AOSA) in celebration of...
Reflecting on Pride
By: Monica Patten, MD PGY3 This is a special edition blog post presented in partnership with the Association of Out Surgeons & Allies (AOSA) in...
Emily Blackwell Did More Than Just Operate Against the Odds, She Built a Legacy of Inclusion
By: Aeryn Kangas-Dick, MD This is a special edition blog post presented in partnership with the Association of Out Surgeons & Allies (AOSA) in celebration...
Learning to Lead Before I Felt Ready: A Medical Student’s Perspective
By: Valentina Montoya Franco, MS4 I didn’t step into leadership because I felt ready. If anything, I thought I needed more experience, more confidence, more proof that...
Authority Doesn’t Have One Accent
By Linda Ding, MD, FACS This is a special edition blog post presented in partnership with the Society of Asian Academic Surgeons in celebration of...
From Barbers to Surgeon-Scientists and Beyond: Creation of the Modern Surgeon
By Connie Shao This is a special edition blog post presented in partnership with the Society of Asian Academic Surgeons in celebration of Asian American...
Self-Advocacy as a Trainee: The Grace to Grow
Author: Rosmi Thomas, DO As a child, I grew up in a chaotic household, but it brought me resilience and a strong sense of self....
How One Question Led Me to Surgical Research: A Guide for Women in Medicine
Author: Hala AlDabbous For many medical students, research can feel like an intimidating, distant world, something reserved for residents or those with connections. I used...
