Author: [AUTHOR] Published on 4/1/2026 12:00:00 AM
Shyam Ramesh, PharmD, Graduate Student, University of Florida, Orlando, Florida
What does being a 2025 Presidential Trainee mean to you?
Being selected as a 2025 Presidential Trainee is a huge honor and truly meaningful to me. I am very thankful to ASCPT for recognizing early-career researchers like myself. This award feels like a vote of confidence—it has boosted my visibility, encouraged me to keep pushing forward, and reminded me that I have a responsibility to grow and contribute meaningfully to the field.
What was your favorite part of attending the Annual Meeting?
Definitely the people. Meeting experts who gave feedback on my work and connecting with fellow students and scientists was the highlight. There was such great energy around learning and sharing ideas in poster sessions.
The scientific sessions and keynote talks were especially inspiring—they broadened my perspective and motivated me to think more deeply about the impact and patient-centered relevance of my work.
Who has inspired you in your career?
My mentor, Dr. Sarah Kim, has been a huge source of inspiration. Her support, dedication, and work ethic constantly push me to do better. I also look up to Dr. Mark Rogge, who is an amazing scientific communicator. Both of them have shaped the way I think and work.
What has been the greatest challenge in your career?
One of my biggest challenges has been scientific writing and communication. English is not my first language, so learning how to clearly express ideas in a scientific and professional way has been tough—but also a rewarding journey I am still working on.
When you are not working, how do you spend your free time?
I try to stay balanced by doing things I enjoy outside of research. I am an amateur photographer—I love going on trails and taking photos of birds and wildlife. I also play tennis, do workouts, read nonfiction, and watch movies when I need to relax and reset.
Dr. Ramesh has been a member of ASCPT since 2023.
