What years did you participate in UROP?

Traditional UROP as a Freshman (2009-2010)

Peer Advisor (2012-2013)

What made you choose UROP?

I wanted to learn more about biology research and this seemed like the perfect opportunity.

What do you think you have learned from your UROP experience?

I learned to think critically, to write an abstract, and to create a scientific poster. As a peer advisor, I became comfortable with public speaking and learned how to plan educational seminars, which successfully prepared me for giving presentations in med school and residency.

How did your UROP experience shape or inform the next steps you took in your academic and professional journey?

The communication and interpersonal skills I gained as a peer advisor has been invaluable to this day from patient care to public speaking. I enjoyed the mentorship aspect, which is a large factor in my interest in academic medicine.

Where are you in your professional journey?

3rd year Pediatrics Resident Physician at the University of Colorado

What advice would you give to a current UROP student?

If you don't get your "dream" project, that is completely okay. It may not feel like it, but you do have time to engage in a similar project later on if you really want to. Use your current project to see what you like/don't like in research, take the time to understand methods/rationale in the project, and learn to write an abstract and make a poster. All these things will set you up for success moving forward.

What are some recent publications or accomplishments that you are proud of?

Truong C, et al. Sex-dependent outcomes following elective endovascular aortic repair. J Surg Res. 2018;229:177-185. doi:10.1016/j.jss.2018.03.015

2nd Place Outstanding Resident Poster 2020: Connie Truong, MD, Risk Factors Associated with Postpartum Depressive Symptoms among Mothers of Preterm Infants