Tips for AAO 2021—Dr. Law: "Set Aside Time to Try the Newest Equipment"

Janice C. Law, MD, is a vitreoretinal sur­geon practicing at Vanderbilt Eye Institute in Nashville, Tenn., where she spends a lot of time in the education arena as the Di­rector of Medical Student Education and now Vice Chair for Education at Vander­bilt University Medical Center, and also works partly at the Veterans Hospital. Dr. Law chairs the Academy's Young Ophthalmologist (YO) committee.

First annual meeting—2005. "When I first walked into McCor­mick Place for AAO 2005, it occurred to me that I had never seen so many ophthalmologists in one place! Looking through the schedule, I couldn’t stop circling the numerous courses that I did not want to miss. I remember feel­ing like a rookie, not really knowing what to expect."

A change that you're looking forward to—no tickets needed for in­struction courses. "While you still need tickets for some events, such as Skills Transfer labs, I am glad that my AAO 2021 badge is an all-access pass to every instruction course. In the past, I often did not buy the course tickets in advance, only to find out I had to go back to the registration area to purchase them. Use the Mobile Meeting Guide and flag sessions you want to see." 

Top tip for getting the most out of the meeting—set goals and make a schedule. "Create learning goals and a calendar. There are so many great courses that it’s hard to get to them all unless you write them down and map out your journey. You also can’t possibly make it to everything in person. Prioritize by what you want to focus on this year—and remember that you can now watch some sessions on demand. And don’t forget to make time in your schedule for reunions and networking."

Biggest beginner’s mistake—heels! "Wear flats, not heels. This saves my feet so I can make it to all the great sessions throughout the convention center (and dance at the Global YO reception)."

How your meeting strategy has evolved—I now add a day to my schedule. "I used to only come for a limited number of days, but now I try to stay one day later or arrive one day earlier. This gives me time to catch up with colleagues and friends. I also get recommendations from them on courses I might have overlooked and, in turn, I try to bring friends along to sessions I find valuable."

Most valued takeaway from a course—unfair question! "This is too dif­ficult. Every year I learn great tips, and this keeps me coming back for more. I always try to make Sue Vicchrilli’s coding sessions in the American Academy of Ophthamlic Executives (AAOE) section and a wellness talk or ergonom­ics course. I also like to update myself on using technol­ogy in the classroom. Indeed, a memorable session was the 3-D–gonioscopy course. I still have the handout and the 3-D glasses. It was such a unique way to teach a skill and clinical findings in a classroom setting."

A lucky win—now hanging in my dining room. "I never win anything, but in 2019, I attended the Orbital Gala in San Francisco to support the Academy Foundation and the many programs that it funds. I put a bid on a piece of art that was absolutely stunning. It was a textured cross-sectional structure of the retina that was created by Dr. Adam Reynolds, an ophthalmologist in Idaho. I outbid my competition and came home with a great memento—and all for a great cause!"

How the annual meeting has changed—more opportunities to con­nect beyond ophthalmology. "I love the changes that have been made, such as the EyePlay Experience, cooking lessons, and the petting zoo. It is not just a scientific meeting—it’s an experience and a chance to meet new people and do new things! I love how the meeting connects us not just us as ophthalmologists, surgeons, and scientists, but also reflects the other aspects of who we are and what we like to do and see."

What you missed during the 2020 all-virtual meet­ing—getting to grips with the newest technology. "I missed not being able to test-drive some of the new ophthalmic equipment and surgery machines on the exhibit floor. The Expo is always a draw for me, because I want to know the latest technology that is coming out and how it will help my patients and protect sight. We are fortunate there are new advances in our field all the time. And I definitely missed meeting new people and catching up with old friends."

Guilty pleasure at the annual meeting—the Global YO Reception on Sunday night! "I always have a great time with friends at the Global YO Reception on Sunday night! And thanks to my choice of day­time footwear—see “Biggest beginner’s mistake,” above—I am able to dance the night away."

Attend the Global YO Reception
Academy members who are in training or in their first five years of practice are encouraged to attend the YO Reception.
When: Sunday, Nov. 14, 9:00 p.m.–midnight, CT.
Where: Republic NOLA (828 South Peters Street).
Meeting badge with YO ribbon is required for admission. Proof of vaccination is required for all attendees. 
Supported in part by Ophthalmic Mutual Insurance Company (OMIC).

Attend the Orbital Gala
The Orbital Gala is a wonderful way to catch up with friends while raising money for the Academy Foundation. Ticket sales are now closed, but you also can attend—and take part in the auction—virtually. Register as a virtual attendee by Friday to receive instructions and a link to the YouTube event, which takes place on Sunday, 7:00-8:00 p.m. CT.
When: Sunday, Nov. 14, 6:00–8:00 p.m., CT.
Where: House of Blues, New Orleans (or attend virtually)

Make a Bid During the Orbital Gala's Auction 
On Monday, Nov. 1, you can start browsing the auction items. On Sunday, Nov. 7, start placing bids. On Sunday, Nov. 14, bidding closes at 9:00 p.m. CT.

Read more news about AAO 2021.