The ASH News Daily Editorial Board consists of ASH members, most of whom have attended prior ASH annual meetings. They share their best advice for how to make the most of your conference experience.
Editor-in-Chief Juliana Perez Botero, MD (@JuliPerezBot): “Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Attend a session focused on a topic that is not typically your go-to, try a networking event, start a conversation at the poster hall.”
Deputy Editor Joselle Cook, MBBS (@JoselleCookMD): “Pay for the extended registration so you can review the sessions until well after the meeting. It’s definitely worth it.”
Authors
Manisha Bhutani, MD (@manisha_bhutani): “Schedule your sessions strategically, then sit by yourself with panoramic sunset views of San Diego Bay. It's like balancing science with a splash of serenity.”
Charlotte Brierley, MD, PhD (@CKBrierley): “Pick a must-go session for each day, attend at least one session outside of your field, give yourself time to read and select your favorite abstracts — and then go speak to the authors!”
Andrés Gómez-De León, MD (@GomezDLeonMD): “Plan your days, use Twitter/X to keep up with all that's going on, and make enough time to connect with friends and colleagues. It's about the science but also about the people you meet along the way.”
Akshat Jain, MD, MPH (@akshatdoctor): “Pack your Hoka [sneakers], get out your daily planner, participate in ASH-a-Palooza, and take a moment to engage with some foreign attendees to exchange notes on how diseases are treated in their country.”
Jason Payne, MD, MSPH (@JasonPayneMD): “Bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes and your fitness tracker. I was hesitant about splurging on a pair of those dress shoes with the sneaker sole, but it was one of the best conference investments. They not only saved my feet but kept me stylish and ready to go from early conference sessions to late evenings catching up with old colleagues. If you’re an early riser, I recommend taking a moment to enjoy a walk along the marina and grab a coffee or pastry before the lines start gathering. Also, leave a little extra space in your day bag for conference goodies and a snack to enjoy alongside a specialty coffee while browsing the booths!”
Junior Authors
Gray Magee, MD (@GrayMageeMD): “This will be my first conference!”
Michelle Morcos-Sandino, MD (@morcossandino): “Review the conference program in advance and choose sessions that match your interests and learning goals. Check room locations to plan your schedule effectively and ensure you arrive on time for each session. Also, use breaks and post-conference events to connect with peers and experts in your field.”
