Author: [AUTHOR] Published on 10/1/2024 12:00:00 AM
Amelia N. Deitchman, PharmD, PhD, Assistant Professor, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
What does being the 2024 Darrell Abernethy Early Stage Investigator Award recipient mean to you?
It is a true honor to be recognized by the members of the Society. It is not easy to establish a research program and it can be unclear when you have “arrived.” I have always felt extremely supported by the Society at every stage and I am truly grateful.
What was your favorite part about attending the Annual Meeting?
My favorite part of the Meeting is networking (both catching up with colleagues and engaging new collaborators), and the wonderful scientific content.
What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
I try to remain approachable and vulnerable with others. When trainees or colleagues reach out to me when they need help or advice, I see that as a big indicator I am doing something right as a colleague, collaborator, and mentor.
Who has inspired you in your career?
So many people. I have had such an amazing group of supporters and mentors. My mother is the most caring and selfless person I know. My dad is smart and encouraging and loves to learn. They are both extremely hard-working. My PhD, post doc, and present-day mentors, collaborators and colleagues. More and more I am inspired by the trainees starting out in the field.
What has been the greatest challenge in your career?
Transitioning to the faculty at the beginning of COVID while becoming a new parent. All of these happened within 6 months. The same year, I lost my long-time mentor suddenly. I think this experience has made me very grateful for everything I have today.
When you are not working, how do you spend your free time?
I run almost every day and I do pilates weekly. I enjoy spending quality time with my family and close friends.
How do you stay focused and motivated?
I do my best to stay organized – keep one to-do list and one calendar and define priorities every day. I work with amazing people, and I love to bring value to projects.
What was your childhood dream job?
As a kid, I always wanted to be the boss – think CEO or President of the United States. My parents were small business owners and healthcare providers. I have always loved the idea of positively impacting the lives of others. I loved science and math and have always had a real passion for education. I think I can say that I have found my dream job.
What is the one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I taught myself HTML when I was 10 and learned Java in high school. This was before learning to code was so mainstream and laptops were not everywhere.
Dr. Deitchman has been a member of ASCPT since 2013.
