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Episode 4: Advice to Young Aspiring Women Neurologists
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Panelists explore the challenges and opportunities for women in neurology, offering practical advice for young professionals navigating the field.
Women have made significant strides in neurology, bringing unique perspectives and innovations to the field. Historically underrepresented, women neurologists have worked to break barriers, advocate for inclusivity, and address issues like work-life balance and equitable opportunities. Their leadership has driven changes such as flexible scheduling, support for family responsibilities, and expanded resources for women’s health-related neurological issues. As more women enter neurology, their impact continues to grow, enriching the profession with diverse voices and approaches to patient care.
In collaboration with the Association of University Professors of Neurology (AUPN), NeurologyLive® convened a panel of several empowering women in neurology to discuss notable topics related to women involvement in the field. Among them included Carlayne Jackson, MD, FAAN, current president of the American Academy of Neurology, Vanessa Hinson, MD, PhD, a professor of neurology and a movement disorder specialist at the Medical University of South Carolina, in Charleston, and Marie Eugene, DO, an associate professor in the Department of Neurology at the University of Connecticut.
In episode 4, the panel shared insights on empowering young women entering the neurology workforce. They discuss the importance of having a personal strategic plan, aligning professional goals with personal values, and prioritizing wellness. The panel highlights the benefits of joining national and subspecialty organizations, like the AAN, to expand networks and access leadership opportunities. They also emphasize the need for women to confidently articulate their career aspirations and advocate for their ideal roles. Additionally, Jackson introduces the "Women in Academic Neurology Toolkit," a valuable resource for building skills in negotiation, leadership, and communication.
Marco Meglio: What advice would you give young women aspiring to enter the field of neurology? Obviously, we still, unfortunately, have a shortage of neurologists globally right now. But what advice would you give to young women entering the field, and how can they navigate some of the challenges we discussed earlier?
Carlayne Jackson, MD: Well, I think one of the most important things, and I think you've heard this already in some comments, is that you have to have a strategic plan. You need to know what your goals are for the next year and the next two to five years, and you need to write them down. They need to be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-based. Review them frequently—not just when you meet with your chair—but periodically. And those goals need to align with your values. If you want to spend time with your family or focus on personal wellness, like exercise or meditation, you need to schedule time for that. For example, I always put my workout on my calendar, and my secretary knows not to schedule meetings during that time. If I don’t do that, meetings get scheduled over it. It’s just a practical way to ensure you’re intentional about meeting your goals.
Marie Eugene, DO: One thing I always advise younger medical students interested in neurology is to think beyond just the career elements. For example, being part of national organizations like the AAN (American Academy of Neurology) is incredibly important. I didn’t join as early as I probably should have, but when I participated in the Diversity Leadership Program, it was instrumental in expanding my network. I still keep in touch with Dr. Smikle, who oversees that program, along with other colleagues I met through it. That experience helped me a lot. I think early on, I was very focused on my institution and patient care, but starting to think outside the box—like becoming a medical student member, which is free—can really help. It’s something I now recommend to medical students and residents alike.
Vanessa Hinson, MD, PhD: That’s really great advice. I’d add that, outside of the AAN or ANA, joining smaller organizations within your subspecialty can be very helpful. Smaller working groups often provide younger professionals a bigger voice and help them feel more connected. One thing I also want to emphasize is the need for women neurologists to be confident when looking for their first or even their second job. People need us. I’d like to see women articulate what they want in their ideal job—not just salary, but how they want to spend their time. For example, if you love working in the EMU (Epilepsy Monitoring Unit), express that clearly. If you tell your chair or director what makes you happy, you’ll be a better doctor and colleague. Unfortunately, I sometimes see applicants waiting for me to tell them where I want them. Instead, I’d like them to tell me, “I’d like to work in the EMU five weeks of the year” or whatever their preference is. With the shortage of neurologists and subspecialists, most places will be delighted to hire you. So bring a clear plan of what you want for your career.
Carlayne Jackson, MD: Absolutely. And I’d like to put in a plug for the “Women in Academic Neurology Toolkit” on the AAN website. It’s not just for academic neurologists—it includes articles and resources on negotiation, leadership skills, imposter syndrome, and communication. My other advice, and Marie is a great example of this, is to seek out leadership training. If you don’t enroll in a formal course through your institution or specialty organizations like the AAN, invest in yourself in other ways. It’s so important. I don’t think we’re taught enough about being confident in negotiation as we grow up. And, Vanessa, I completely agree—it’s essential to tell your chair what you enjoy, what you want, and what your goals are.
