This year’s AUA Annual Meeting, held in San Antonio, Texas, was a resounding success, spanning 4 days packed with top-notch urologic research, innovation, and expertise. Having never been, I was excited for the opportunity to learn, network, and be surrounded by many of the best in our field.

Leading up to the event, people warned me it would be overwhelming. When I stepped foot into the giant convention center, I understood exactly what they meant. The sheer magnitude of the meeting was immediately evident, with thousands of urologists, researchers, and industry members all under 1 roof. The meeting consists of days full of plenary sessions, poster/podium sessions, instructional courses, and endless opportunities to explore the giant exhibit hall.

Now that I have my first trip to the meeting under my giant Texan-style belt buckle, I wanted to share some tips for first-time attendees who plan on going to next year’s meeting in Las Vegas.

1. Organize. Realize that it is impossible to attend everything you want to see. Plan ahead by downloading the app (it is very easy to use and is very helpful), going through the program and identifying the sessions you are most interested in. Pay attention to whether it is an instructional course that requires payment to attend. Accept that there will be parts that you will miss. Luckily, many of the forums and over 40 hours of plenary sessions are available on demand.
2. Stay flexible. Leave some free time during the day. Check out a plenary session you otherwise wouldn’t have. Try one of the industry’s hands-on teaching sessions. You never know what opportunities may arise.
3. Check out Resident events. There are several over the weekend, put on specifically for residents. The Residents Forum this year featured a panel of speakers on simulation in residency training as well as one on potential career possibilities, not to mention Dr Amy Luckenbaugh giving an amazing talk on managing and rebounding from the emotional and mental toll of surgical complications. The quiz bowl showcases some of our brightest in a fun competition. The Residents Mingle gives an opportunity to network and meet people from all over the country.
4. Network. Interested in fellowship? There couldn’t be a better opportunity to meet with leaders in the field, fellowship directors, and current fellows. There is also a career fair, giving you the chance to meet with employers, recruiters, and other professionals.
5. Explore. Grab some friends and wander around the city, taking in the culture, history, and of course the great food that the city has to offer.

Going to my first AUA annual meeting was a great experience, and I can’t wait to go back. I highly encourage anyone who might be interested to attend. If it will be your first time, reach out to someone who has been before for more tips and advice. See everyone in Las Vegas!

Since 2002, the AUA Residents and Fellows Committee has represented the voice of trainee members. The Committee’s mission is to address the educational and professional needs of urology residents and fellows and promote engagement with the AUA. The Committee welcomes your input and feedback! To contact us, or inquire about ways to be involved, please email rescommittee@AUAnet.org