Preparing Fellows for Graduation: Perspectives on Career Guidance.

At the completion of a hematology/oncology fellowship, trainees are likely to enter into a career differing from the one modeled by the faculty providing mentorship and teaching during training. Fellows benefit from open communication with regard to career goals and opportunities starting early in training. To ensure honesty in the process, program directors must be accepting and supportive of house staff selecting careers different from those of the training environment. Following identification of a long-term career goal, program directors may facilitate a smooth transition to the early career through thoughtful inclusion of alternative experiences and additional mentors. Barriers exist, including funding and limited time in training while completing educational requirements, which may make inclusion of the experiences a challenge.