“The field of hematology and oncology is ever-broadening, and it can be intimidating to consider the field as a medical student. With all of the different types of cancer and new drugs that accompany their treatment, it is not as immediately familiar as other specialties might appear. However, that familiarity comes with time and training. What remains at the core is constant: oncology is a field where you will meet people going through some of the most difficult times of their lives, some of whom you will go on to have great success and even cure of their cancer, and others for whom you will need to continually redefine the word. Along the way, you’ll build lifelong relationships and play a role inpatients’ and their families’ lives that is truly unique. It’s also no secret that in this field, the topics of sickness, death, and dying sometimes become relevant and necessary to discuss openly. Like many, I was initially intimidated and uncomfortable when approaching these situations. Over time, however, I realized what a privilege it is to help patients facing these realities navigate the different paths ahead of them during a time of such difficulty. In these ways, the relationships I have formed with my patients, and their families, are deeply meaningful.”