Figure 1. Poster presentation at AUA.

Figure 2. University of Oklahoma Department of Urology.

Figure 3. Advanced practice providers at OU Urology.

I had the esteemed pleasure to be a panelist for the recent “Advancing Your Career: Strategies & Best Practices for APPs Working in Urology” webinar. The platform was intended to provide perspectives of advanced practice providers (APPs) throughout the span of their careers to fellow APPs. I was appointed the “midcareer” APP. I would like to think that there isn’t anything midlife about me, but I have spent over a decade in urology as an APP, so I have apparently met the midlife milestone! This task allowed me to reflect on my time in urology as well as my personal career growth and professional/personal connections that I have made along the way. I have been very fortunate to have a wonderful, supportive urology family that has allowed me to expand my urology practice and research interests (Figure 1). My workplace setting at an academic center fostered my advancement alongside the wonderful and talented residents and fellows that I have the joy to work with every day (Figure 2). My encouraging APP comrades are an extra bonus to help guide or ground me when needed (Figure 3).

It was interesting to hear how similar the early-, mid-, and end-career APPs had similar advice and recommendations for our fellow APPs. As APPs, we all have kindred struggles and successes that we shared. We all have some missed opportunities or wish-we-did-it-differently scenarios. There seemed to be a central theme however, in that we all enjoy urology. We all recognize the potential we have as APPs in urology. The opportunities can be endless whether it is scholarship, teaching, or the various service areas in our great specialty. The consensus strongly recommended for any APP to get involved with organizations and grow your network. Reach outside of your local network and expand your circle. There is a supportive urology APP community that is welcoming and supportive of our peers. AUA especially has great resources for continuing education, networking, committee membership, and scholarship research outlets available to APPs. The most impactful takeaway for me was you are not alone, we all have strengths and struggles, we are more alike than different, and find your people!

If you want to know who your tribe is, speak your truth. Then see who sticks around. Those are the people who get a spot in your blanket fort.
Nanea Hoffman