“I've been a part of this program for the past 2–3 years, and it has been an incredibly enriching and rewarding experience. It has given me opportunities to learn from experts, develop new skills, and contribute to meaningful ideas in the questionnaire. The experience has been instrumental in both my personal and professional growth, which is why I'm excited to help build this new community and invite others to be a part of it.”
— High School Student, India

“After participating in last year’s internship, I realized how impactful the research on diabetes was to my immediate family members and friends. I recall the biggest gain I’d hoped for when applying for the internship last year was to gain information that I could take back to family and friends that were either diabetic or pre-diabetic. Not only was I able to do so, but I was able to educate them on healthier lifestyle choices and recognize areas where disparities met medicine necessities. This experience allowed me to connect current research with concepts I was learning in my courses, further inspiring me to explore diabetes more deeply.”
— College Student, USA

“Having participated in the Diabetes Virtual Camp previously, I hope to build on the strong foundation it provided by gaining a deeper understanding of current advances in diabetes research and identifying emerging areas where I can contribute. I am particularly interested in learning more about the intersection of basic science, clinical research, and patient care, and how these disciplines work together to improve diabetes outcomes. I also hope to connect with researchers, clinicians, and fellow participants from diverse backgrounds, creating opportunities for mentorship and future collaborations.”
— Scientist, Zimbabwe

“Experiencing obesity firsthand has allowed me to see both the personal and systemic challenges associated with metabolic disease. This perspective not only shaped my desire to become a physician, but also sparked my interest in understanding the biological mechanisms underlying these conditions. I hope to gain more knowledge about diabetes, obesity, and metabolism from current experts in the field. I intend to apply this knowledge to my current research projects and beyond as a future physician.”
— Post-Undergraduate Gap Year Student, USA

“Career interests involve T2DM and the surrounding co-morbidities and factors that play a part in its development and progression. I am working towards being a holistic healthcare provider in my work as an early career clinician.”
— Early-Career Clinician, USA

“As a fourth-year medical student, my ultimate career goal is to specialize in endocrinology, with a dedicated focus on diabetes care, clinical research, and preventive medicine. My path to medicine was deeply shaped by my father’s journey with diabetes. Witnessing him navigate the progressive severity of the disease—culminating in microvascular and ocular complications including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and optic nerve damage—sparked my determination to understand this disease at its core. My goal is to become an endocrinologist who not only manages diabetes but actively works to prevent these devastating secondary complications through early intervention, patient education, and the application of cutting-edge clinical advancements. I want to bridge the gap between advanced metabolic science and compassionate, patient-centered clinical practice.”
— Medical Student, Pakistan

“As a clinical research professional, I hope to broaden my knowledge of diabetes clinical trials, learn about current research and treatment approaches, and gain practical insights from experienced experts. I also hope to connect with other participants and apply what I learn to support high-quality clinical research.”
— Clinical Researcher, Turkey

“I am pursuing a fellowship in Endocrinology with the goal of becoming an academic endocrinologist focused on diabetes, metabolic disease, clinical research, and medical education. I hope to expand my knowledge of diabetes care, learn from experts in the field, and stay up to date on the latest advances in diabetes research and management while connecting with others who share an interest in endocrinology.”
— Medical Resident, USA

“As a Pediatric Resident with a strong interest in Pediatric Endocrinology, I am eager to expand my knowledge and skills in diabetes care. I believe the Diabetes Virtual Camp is an excellent opportunity to learn from experts, improve my clinical decision-making, and stay updated on the latest advances in diabetes management. I hope to apply this knowledge to provide better care for children and adolescents with diabetes and to share what I learn with my colleagues in my residency program.”
— Medical Resident, Spain

“My goal is to become an endocrinologist with a focus in diabetes and weight management at an academic medical center where I can continue clinical research and hone my skills in medical education. I hope to not only learn about new breakthroughs in diabetes management directly from experts, but also form meaningful connections with experts regarding their career paths in academic medicine and any advice they might have.”
— Clinical Fellow, USA

“I hope to gain further insights about diabetes and the roles that lifestyle habits play into one's metabolism and experience with disease. I have a close family member who experienced a stroke and corresponding diagnosis of severe diabetes, and am interested in learning as much as I can about the research surrounding those who live with diabetes or who are at risk for diabetes. The speakers and topics in the summer 2026 program are highly fascinating to me and I hope to gain knowledge to help my family members cope with this condition while also informing my future pursuit of research in biomedical sciences.”

“As a pharmacy student, I hope to deepen my understanding of diabetes pathophysiology, current treatment strategies, and emerging therapies. I also hope to learn from experts, gain insight into recent advances in diabetes research and patient care, and connect with students and professionals from diverse backgrounds. This program will help broaden my perspective and support my future career in pharmaceutical research and clinical development.”

“After living with type 1 diabetes for approximately 25 years, I envision becoming a strong and credible voice for a disease that has shaped nearly every aspect of my personal and professional life. My lived experience, combined with my clinical background and doctoral education, has strengthened my commitment to improving early detection, access to care, and long-term outcomes for individuals and families affected by diabetes. My immediate goals are to continue teaching, conducting meaningful research, and developing community-based initiatives that increase access to diabetes education and screening. I am particularly interested in addressing disparities affecting medically underserved children, adolescents, and adults who may experience delayed diagnosis, limited specialty care, or inadequate access to prevention resources.”

“Through this virtual program, I hope to gain mentorship, professional guidance, and meaningful connections with leaders who are advancing diabetes care, research, education, and advocacy. I am especially interested in learning how to translate my lived experience with type 1 diabetes, clinical expertise, and doctoral research into sustainable programs that improve screening, early detection, and access to care for medically underserved communities. Most importantly, I hope to become part of a collaborative network of individuals who share a commitment to improving the lives of people affected by diabetes.”

“I am a PhD student in Nutrition with a strong interest in diabetes prevention, nutrition interventions, and behavioral health. I hope to expand my knowledge of current advances in diabetes prevention, management, and research while learning from experts in the field. I also look forward to connecting with researchers, clinicians, and students from diverse backgrounds, exploring opportunities for future collaborations, and gaining practical insights that will strengthen both my current research and future career as an academic and researcher.”

“Through the Diabetes Virtual Camp, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of the latest breakthroughs in diabetes research and therapeutics. I am especially excited to learn from renowned experts and scientists from reputable institutions. By participating in the interactive Q&A sessions, open mic forums, and post-session tasks, I hope to develop my critical thinking and research skills. Furthermore, I look forward to connecting with a diverse global community of peers and mentors who share the same passion for advancing diabetes care and tackling health inequity.”

“I hope to strengthen my practical knowledge of diabetes management, learn updated evidence-based strategies, and exchange experience with healthcare professionals from different backgrounds. I also aim to apply what I learn in patient education and in developing more effective multidisciplinary programs for people living with diabetes. I hope to connect with fellow students and early-career researchers from around the world, exchange ideas, and build a network that supports future collaborations. I believe this program will strengthen my scientific foundation and help me shape meaningful research that contributes to improving the lives of people living with diabetes.”

“As a clinical psychologist who wants to specialize in clinical research in diabetes, I am always looking for more opportunities to further my training in diabetes. From this program, I want to learn more about important diabetes research topics and network with leaders in the field. I also appreciate the opportunity to learn from those with lived experience.”

“I hope to deepen my understanding of diabetes, including its prevention, treatment, and long-term management. I also have a personal motivation to learn more about this disease because diabetes runs in my family-my grandmother has diabetes. So, I realized the importance of paying close attention to my own health. Through this virtual program, I hope to learn from experts, gain up-to-date diabetes care and patient education.”

“I am an early career researcher interested in diabetes and nutrition. I study the intersection of diabetes, obesity, and micronutrients.  I want to understand the latest research around T1D and T2D, including medications/treatments , and other related health outcomes.”

“I will be starting my pediatrics residency soon so I would just like to update my information regarding diabetes”

“My primary career goal is to become a researcher and clinical specialist in endocrinology, focusing on diabetes and its associated metabolic comorbidities. I am deeply interested in bridging the gap between molecular research and practical clinical care to design more effective, personalized treatment plans for patients. Ultimately, I aim to contribute to cutting-edge research that addresses insulin resistance and improves the long-term quality of life for individuals living with diabetes.”

“I hope to learn about current advances in diabetes research and treatment and apply this knowledge to my research and teaching.”

“I hope to learn more about diabetes, its prevention, treatment, and its impact on people's lives. As a high school student who hopes to study medicine, I want to gain knowledge from experts, develop my skills, and better understand how healthcare professionals and researchers work together to improve diabetes care.”

“I hope to learn from leading experts in diabetes research, stay current with advances in the field, and gain insights that will help me pursue my goal of becoming a physician-scientist focused on diabetes.”

“One of my family members has type 2 diabetes, which has made the disease personally meaningful to me and sparked my interest in endocrinology. Through my pharmacy education, I have become increasingly interested in learning more about the pathophysiology and treatment of diabetes, and I hope to deepen my understanding beyond what I have learned in the classroom through this virtual camp. In addition, I am excited about the opportunity to learn from the outstanding speakers participating in this program. I hope to gain insight into the current direction of diabetes research, the emerging topics that researchers are focusing on, and how young researchers can continue building expertise in this field. I believe these experiences and perspectives will be valuable as I prepare for graduate school and explore my future career in biomedical research.”

“I am currently pursuing an MD/PhD training with the hopes of becoming a physician-scientist, contributing to the care of patients suffering from neurological diseases, including chronic pain and cancers.  I hope to learn more about diabetes, particularly through the lens of inflammation, but also about the disease on a broader scale. Diabetes is prevalent in the US, and an in-depth understanding of it is necessary for me as a future physician.”

“I hope to learn from experts and gain understanding of some latest scientific advances and research developments, also public health strategies for diabetes prevention and clinical treatments. As an undergraduate student, I hope this virtual program will show me different career paths related to diabetes, from basic science research, clinical medicine, to public health. This program will help me explore different fields and help me to decide about my future academic and professional goals.”

“My long-term career goal is to lead an interdisciplinary research program that integrates epidemiology, clinical care, and real-world data science to advance more individualized and equitable approaches to obesity, diabetes, MASLD, and related cardiometabolic complications.  I hope to learn about most current diabetes research and also network with others who are passionate about diabetes research.”

“I joined the internship last year and learned a lot of in depth info and up to date information about diabetes that I didn’t know before. It allowed me to help my family with diabetes makes healthier choices and also myself for my health.”

“Every year, I found interesting the research topics that each speaker brings to the virtual meeting. Every summer; they bring something new or they talk about a topic that has caught my eyes in the past year. So, I can bring up questions or understand more about the topic. As an incoming graduate student completing a rotation in a lab focused on T2D research, I hope to gain a deeper knowledge of T2D and T1D to build a foundation that will serve me during the rotation. I look forward to hearing from a range of leading experts in diabetes at various institutions, and I am confident their knowledge will further my understanding of diabetes from both basic research and clinical perspectives.”

“Over the next year, I will apply for early-career research grants, including the NIH K99/R00, NIH K01, and ADA Pathway to Stop Diabetes and Accelerator Award. These grants will enable me to apply for tenure-track faculty positions and serve as a foundation for future investigator grants such as the NIH R01, R03, or R21. I strongly believe that the Diabetes Virtual Camp will be instrumental in helping me achieve my career goals and make a lasting impact in diabetes and metabolism research, as I will learn about the most current topics in diabetes. It will also provide me with the necessary career guidance and networking opportunities with colleagues and experts in this important field of medicine.”

“One of my primary research interests is endocrine/metabolic diseases, particularly diabetes, as I have seen many family members and friends struggle with the disease. My goal is to contribute to the development of novel therapeutics that address the underlying causes of diseases rather than simply managing its symptoms. I am hoping to learn deeply about mechanisms of diabetes, current therapeutics, and emerging research trends of diabetes. I also look forward to gain insights for my future research career.”

“As a recently graduated doctor and current graduate student in translational medicine, my goal is to become a physician-scientist specializing in vascular biology and diabetic complications. This program will deepen my understanding of diabetes research across novel mechanisms, emerging therapeutics, and clinical translation. Gaining this perspective now, while my research is still taking shape, will allow me to approach my scientific questions with an informed lens and direct my work toward meaningful unmet needs in diabetes care.”

“As a person with Type 1 diabetes, I am particularly interested in Type 1 diabetes research and meeting international researchers and fellow participants from across the world.”

“Endocrinology is one of the fields I am most interested in due to its relation to many metabolic diseases and signaling pathways. I hope to learn more about Diabetes, as it is a complex metabolic disease that goes beyond insulin dysfunction, affecting systems biology and the whole patient. In learning about the disease and its associated complications, I hope to better understand the scientific and clinical foundations of endocrinology, better equipping me for my next career paths.”

“Pursuing an Endocrinology fellowship with the main aim of developing diabetes technologies in my country where patients with type 1 Diabetes have to travel abroad for insulin pump technologies.”

“As someone who had Type 2 diabetes in my adolescence, I'm hoping to learn more about current clinical research being done to support communities where diabetes is prevalent and there is a lack of community educational resources. I'm hoping to use these sessions to shape my understanding of what research I might be interested in pursuing in the future and seeing if there are labs locally I can get involved with.”

“I am a physician with a strong interest in diabetes and metabolic diseases. My career goal is to improve the prevention and management of diabetes through evidence-based clinical practice and continuous medical education. I hope to develop expertise in comprehensive diabetes care, including the management of diabetes-related complications, and contribute to improving patient outcomes in Nepal. In the future, I hope to become involved in clinical research and international collaborations in endocrinology and metabolic medicine.”

“I hope to gain a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary overview of diabetes pathology to ground my fundamental biomedical research in real-world clinical challenges. By participating in this program, I aim to identify critical knowledge gaps in metabolic disease, refine my future PhD research focus, and connect with experts driving innovation in diabetes therapeutics.”

“I also value the opportunity to learn from individuals with lived experience and from researchers working across different areas of diabetes. I hope to build lasting connections, exchange ideas with participants from diverse backgrounds, and explore how my research experience in insulin signaling, retinal degeneration, fibrosis, and single-cell genomics can contribute to future diabetes research.”

“As a Master's student in Developmental Genetics, I am eager to learn from experienced researchers and clinicians, broaden my knowledge of biomedical research, and explore how genetics contributes to the understanding of complex diseases such as diabetes. I also hope to develop new research perspectives, connect with participants from around the world, and gain insights that will support my future career in genetics and biomedical research.”

“Through this Diabetes Virtual Camp, I hope to learn about the latest research on the relationship between aging and diabetes. I am particularly interested in gaining insights that can be applied to my research on menopausal women's health, especially in developing evidence-based strategies to promote healthy aging and improve metabolic health in women. I also look forward to learning from experts and connecting with researchers who share similar interests.”

“I am genuinely excited to learn through real-world insights shared by experts, as I hope to deepen my understanding of the current landscape of diabetes and related conditions such as obesity, as well as the underlying mechanisms behind them. I also look forward to learning about the complications that patients may experience, especially among pregnant women. In addition, the career preparation session is also one of the most anticipated parts of this Virtual Camp, where I can learn how to connect my existing knowledge to clinical practice and develop the skills needed to make meaningful contributions to the healthcare sector.”

“I hope to gain a deeper understanding of diabetes research, treatment, and patient care by learning directly from experts in the field. I live with a family member who has type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease, and I also work as a certified nursing assistant caring for a patient with type 2 diabetes. These experiences have shown me that people with diabetes often require individualized, consistent, and compassionate care.”

“As a first-generation Latina and aspiring physician, I have witnessed how conditions such as diabetes disproportionately affect families through barriers to healthcare access, education, and prevention. These experiences have inspired me to pursue research that bridges clinical medicine, public health, and molecular biology. I hope to strengthen my understanding of the latest advances in diabetes research while learning from leading physician-scientists and researchers across the country.”

“I am particularly excited about the opportunity to engage in discussions with experts during the Q&A sessions, learn about different career paths in academic medicine, and connect with other students who share similar interests in medicine and research. I also hope this program will help me develop a stronger understanding of diabetes-related health disparities and inspire future research directions that integrate clinical medicine, epidemiology, and precision medicine.”

“I hope to gain a deeper understanding of diabetes care, including current approaches to prevention, treatment, and the management of cardiovascular complications. It is a rare opportunity to learn directly from many leading experts in the field through an accessible virtual format. The speaker lineup is outstanding, and I am excited to hear diverse perspectives.”

“My goal is to strengthen my academic and clinical knowledge to improve nursing education, develop evidence-based educational strategies, and contribute to research that enhances the quality of life of people living with diabetes. I hope to gain up-to-date knowledge on diabetes prevention, management, and patient education. I also look forward to learning about innovative educational approaches and best practices that I can apply in nursing education, clinical practice, and community health initiatives. Additionally, I hope to connect with professionals from different countries to exchange experiences and promote future collaborations.”

“As a participant in the 2025 Diabetes Virtual Summer Camp, I greatly benefited from the high-quality scientific sessions, expert discussions, and the opportunity to connect with participants from diverse professional backgrounds. Returning this year, I hope to deepen my understanding of emerging advances in diabetes research and clinical care, particularly in prevention, multidisciplinary management, and implementation strategies.”

“I am working toward becoming a family medicine physician specializing in diabetes and obesity management and education to help improve long-term patient outcomes. I am currently enrolled in a Diabetology Fellowship designed for primary care physicians. Attending this program will broaden my knowledge and understanding of diabetes by exposing me to the latest innovations in diabetes research and innovative clinical practices from leading experts. I seek ways to expand my professional development in diabetes and obesity so that I can provide more effective treatments for my patients.”

“I hope to gain a deeper understanding of diabetes and learn more about how it affects people on a personal and community level. My grandmother is currently living with diabetes, so this topic is also especially meaningful to me, and I want to better support her and understand her through knowledge. I believe that the more exposure and learning about health conditions empowers us to help others, and I'm excited to apply what I learn from this program in the future.”

“As an early-stage research scientist, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of the latest advances in diabetes research and clinical care through the Diabetes Virtual Camp Program. Learning directly from renowned diabetes researchers and clinicians will provide valuable insight into emerging scientific discoveries, innovative therapeutic approaches, and the translational process that connects basic research to improved patient outcomes. In addition to expanding my scientific knowledge, I am eager to learn from the diverse career experiences of the speakers. Understanding the different career paths in academic research, clinical medicine, and translational science will help me make informed decisions as I continue to develop as an independent investigator. I also hope to gain practical advice on building a successful research career, fostering collaborations, securing funding, and translating scientific discoveries into meaningful advances for people living with diabetes. Ultimately, I view this program as an opportunity to broaden my perspective, strengthen my professional development, and connect with leaders and peers who share a commitment to advancing diabetes research. I believe the knowledge and inspiration gained through this experience will help me become a more effective scientist and contribute to the development of innovative strategies to prevent and treat diabetes and its complications.”

“I hope to broaden my understanding of current diabetes research beyond my specific dissertation project and learn from investigators working across basic, clinical, and translational research. I am also interested in gaining career guidance, improving my ability to communicate my research, and connecting with other trainees and mentors in the diabetes research community. I previously found the Diabetes Virtual Camp valuable and would like to continue building on that experience.”

“As both a scientist and someone living with diabetes, I am passionate about understanding the disease from both a research and personal perspective. I hope this camp will provide practical skills that complement my scientific knowledge, while allowing me to learn from educators and other individuals researching diabetes every day.”

“I hope to bridge the gap between basic foundational genetics and systemic metabolic conditions like diabetes. While my laboratory experience focuses heavily on fundamental cellular and molecular mechanisms, I am eager to gain a more translational and clinical perspective on diabetes care and research. Through this virtual program, I look forward to understanding the current scientific challenges in the field, exploring how genetic and epigenetic insights intersect with metabolic disorders, and connecting with professionals and peers who are driving innovation in this space.”

“I hope to deepen my understanding behind the mechanisms, complications, and treatments of diabetes so that I can provide the best possible patient care and advance the effort towards finding a cure for type 1 diabetics like my brother.”

“As a faculty member at a primarily undergraduate institution, I hope to bring back new knowledge and resources that will enhance the training opportunities I provide to my students and strengthen our research and teaching program.”

“I hope to gain more knowledge about new diabetes research from the leaders in the field. My family and I live with MODY diabetes so diabetes research is of great importance to me.”

“I am currently an Internal Medicine resident with a strong interest in diabetes, endocrinology, and academic medicine. My long-term goal is to become an academic endocrinologist and clinician-scientist who combines clinical practice with research and medical education. I hope to contribute to more practical, evidence-based, and patient-centred approaches to diabetes care while helping reduce disparities in access and outcomes. I hope to deepen my understanding of current advances in diabetes research and treatment while learning more about the different career paths available within the field. I am particularly interested in hearing how clinicians and scientists developed their research interests, integrated research with patient care, and built successful academic careers. I also hope to connect with mentors and peers who share my interest in improving diabetes care and identify opportunities for future collaboration.”

“I’m interested in pursuing a career in endocrinology in a teaching hospital/ academic setting. I’m also passionate about health advocacy, health equity. Within endocrinology my clinical interest is in gender diverse population and the unique health challenges in that population, including increased cardio metabolic concerns, higher rate of diabetes and its complications. Would like to get a deeper understanding on the insulin pumps and choosing the right pump for the right patient. Also would like to get an understanding of pump management in pregnancy and post partum. Would like to learn more about the new changes in guidelines and best practice.”

“As a medical student, I am interested in pursuing endocrinology as a specialty. I hope to work in both clinical practice and the innovation space as a physician. I'm especially interested in the new technologies and pharmaceutical advancements in the industry, as these breakthroughs are transforming how metabolic conditions are treated before they progress to life-threatening diseases. I am looking to learn more about the current landscape of diabetes management, especially innovations changing the field. I am looking forward to hearing from leading experts in the field and connecting with peers with similar interests.”

“I am an early career physician who just came out from fellowship, passionate about the complexity of type 1 diabetes and the opportunity to improve patients' lives through advances in immunology, diabetes technology, and personalized care, which are currently on the rise. I work in a clinic specialized in the transition of pediatric patient to adult clinic and there care of young adults. I am interested in health equity and access to latest technology and advances to all the populations in the U.S. At the same time, I am committed to conducting clinical and quality improvement research that reduces disparities in diabetes care and ensures that evidence-based therapies reach patients who need them most. I hope to become a leader in type 1 diabetes care by building multidisciplinary programs that combine innovative research, technology, and patient-centered care while mentoring future clinicians and investigators. My goal is to help shape a future where advances in science are translated into meaningful improvements in the lives of people living with type 1 diabetes.”

“Bringing up to date evidence based medicine to the rural population in Alaska and native populous.”

“I hope to gain a better understanding of diabetes research and learn how researchers and healthcare professionals address health inequities. As someone from an underrepresented minority background, I am especially interested in understanding how these disparities affect communities like mine and how I can contribute to improving health outcomes.”

“I hope to gain practical, evidence-based knowledge that I can immediately apply in the care of people with diabetes. I am particularly interested in learning from experts about advances in diabetes technology, individualized treatment strategies, and multidisciplinary approaches to improving outcomes. I also hope to strengthen my clinical decision-making through case-based discussions and connect with peers and mentors who share a passion for diabetes care. As an endocrinology fellow, I believe this program will help me further develop the skills needed to provide high-quality, patient-centered care while preparing me for a career in academic endocrinology.”

“I hope to learn from leaders who have done the work and can show me what is truly possible. I want to have a better level of exposure and experience of what diabetes entails beyond the four walls of the classroom to deepen my knowledge, because I know that real growth does not stop at a desk. And I want to connect with like minded people. Others who share the same drive, the same questions, the same passion for making a difference. People who will challenge me, support me, and maybe even become part of my journey for years to come.”

“Since my mother has Type 1 diabetes, I have a personal connection to this disease and hope to better understand it in order to apply this knowledge to my future studies. Additionally, I hope this program will provide me with the opportunities to meet with researchers and people working in the field of diabetes. Learning about their experiences and passion for their work will inspire me as I pursue my future career in pharmaceutical development.”

“With the opportunity to participate in DVC, I have been able to expand my knowledge about diabetes and metabolic conditions on subject matter outside of my school curriculum. This opportunity has expanded my interest in diabetes research. Listening to physicians in the field has also given me the opportunity to develop a vision for what I hope to accomplish as a professional in medicine one day.”

“I hope to gain a better understanding of the research and processes behind diabetes. As someone who has seen various effects of diabetes in my own family, I'm very curious to learn about it as a whole. I also feel that this program will help me in understanding careers linked to this type of research and whether it is something I would genuinely like to pursue.”

“I am a Maternal-Fetal Medicine physician and I treat many patients with diabetes. I treat high-risk pregnancies of diabetic patients. I am interested in improving their care. I also do placenta basic science research in gestational diabetic patients. I hope to continue learning more about treatment of diabetics (especially type 1 and insulin pumps).”

“I hope to strengthen my overall knowledge and clinical skills in diabetes care while expanding my understanding of cardiometabolic health. I am particularly interested in gaining practical, evidence-based strategies that I can incorporate into my fellowship training and, ultimately, into my future community practice. I also look forward to learning from experts in the field, connecting with peers who share similar interests, and gaining exposure to new and evolving approaches to diabetes management.”

“I hope to build a stronger foundation in disease pathology in learning about the cellular and molecular mechanism behind diabetes alongside other highly motivated students globally, building long-term connections. I also hope to gain a clear understanding of the MD-PhD dual degree pathway, which I think would be the ideal training for me to combine clinical practice with scientific discovery. Also, understanding a highly prevalent chronic disease like diabetes will hopefully educate me on managing large scale metabolic diseases, which is crucial knowledge for planning accessible healthcare systems in Sudan. I’ve also read that this program connects lab discoveries directly to patient care, better helping me understand how studying fundamental molecules drives the development of new clinical treatments.”

“Many of my family members have diabetes, which has made me curious about the disease and motivated me to understand both its biology and the challenges it creates for patients and their families. I hope that by learning more about diabetes and current research, I will be better able to support my loved ones while pursuing my long-term interest in biomedical science. Recently, I started a small independent research project. Working on it made me realize how much goes into asking meaningful scientific questions, designing a study, and interpreting results. Although I encountered many challenges, the experience made me even more eager to learn. Through this program, I hope to gain insight from researchers and healthcare professionals, understand how research is conducted in practice, and build the knowledge and skills that will help me continue developing as a future scientist.”

“I am an undergraduate chemical engineering student and I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2023. My long-term goal is to become an MD specializing in endocrinology and see type 1 and type 2 diabetes. I am particularly interested in novel technologies such as glucose-responsive and targeted delivery systems, which represent a promising frontier for improving insulin therapy and reducing the burden of daily disease management. I hope to deepen my technical understanding of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, gaining insight into the underlying mechanisms, treatment approaches, and emerging technologies. I am especially eager to meet and learn from researchers and leaders at the forefront of this field, as their work represents the kind of impact I hope to have in my own future career. I also want to meet other individuals who share a genuine passion for diabetes research and advocacy.”

“My career interests lie at the intersection of women’s health, global health, and health equity. I hope to become a physician who provides compassionate care while also using research to improve health outcomes for women and families, particularly in underserved communities. I am especially interested in gestational diabetes because it affects both maternal and fetal health and may have lasting consequences beyond pregnancy. Participating in this Virtual Camp last summer introduced me to the complexity of diabetes and showed me how research can shape prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. That experience strengthened my interest in exploring diabetes more deeply and learning how research can be translated into better care for diverse patient populations. Having participated in the program last year, I hope to build on the knowledge I gained and develop a deeper understanding of diabetes research. I am especially interested in learning about current research methods, exploring new areas within the field, and connecting with peers who share my interest in diabetes.”

“My career goal is to become an endocrinologist specializing in diabetes care. I am passionate about improving diabetes management through patient education, clinical research, and equitable access to care. I hope to combine compassionate clinical practice with teaching and research to improve outcomes for people living with diabetes. I hope to expand my knowledge of diabetes management, learn from experts in the field, and connect with other healthcare professionals who are passionate about diabetes care. I also look forward to gaining practical insights that I can apply to improve patient outcomes in my clinical practice.”

“As an early-stage investigator, while primary interest is elucidating the role of macrophages in various disease states. My career goals are to establish a productive lab with multiple projects capable of securing funding and contributing to clinical/translational research that benefits my community. I hope to build my foundational knowledge of diabetic processes such that I can better propose meaningful questions and research initiatives. Also, I hope to learn more about the current landscape of diabetes research and effective targets for therapeutic intervention.”

“Translation of findings from RCT into real-world clinical practice remains one of the central challenges in diabetes care. I am particularly interested in bridging the evidence gap between clinical trials and routine practice, especially for individuals with multimorbidity, where competing conditions and polypharmacy complicate therapeutic decision-making. My long-term career goal is to advance diabetes care by integrating outcomes research with translational science to improve precision, equity, and real-world impact. I am committed to interdisciplinary collaboration across endocrinology, primary care, and data science to accelerate the translation of evidence into practice. Participation in the ADA virtual Scholars Program will provide structured mentorship, exposure to national leaders in diabetes research and care, and opportunities to build lasting professional collaborations. Engaging in career development workshops and networking activities will help refine my independent research agenda, strengthen my leadership skills, and position me to contribute effectively to advancing evidence-based diabetes care.”

“Growing up in Cilegon, Indonesia, diabetes isn’t a concept I only read about in textbooks—it’s a constant presence in my home. Watching my grandmother and extended family navigate the daily burdens of generational diabetes made me realize early on how deeply metabolic diseases disrupt lives. This personal reality sparked my drive to pursue a career as a physician-scientist, focusing on endocrinology and metabolic health. Living in an industrial city with limited access to formal research infrastructure, I’ve had to be scrappy—teaching myself the basics, analyzing open-source data, and collaborating on independent, theoretical research projects targeting chronic conditions. My long-term goal is to bridge the gap between advanced biochemical research and accessible patient care. I want to build a career in academic medicine where I can research the systemic drivers of diabetes while treating patients in communities that, like mine, often lack specialized endocrine care. Because local laboratory access and specialized research mentorship are scarce in my region, I have spent much of my high school career learning in a vacuum—relying on self-study and public literature. I am applying to the Diabetes Virtual Camp to transition from independent curiosity to structured scientific inquiry under the guidance of leading experts. Specifically, I hope to gain deeper insights into the latest clinical therapeutics, metabolic signaling pathways, and the systemic approaches needed to tackle diabetes-related health inequities. Beyond the lectures, the interactive Q&A sessions and open mic forums represent a rare opportunity for me to engage directly with renowned researchers, clinicians, and an international cohort of peers. I want to test my understanding of metabolic health against global standards, refine my research methodology, and leave the program equipped with actionable knowledge to propel my future studies in medicine and endocrinology.”

“To continue on the clinical field of treating diabetics both in Primary Health Care and in Diabetes Center.”

“Honestly, my current understanding of diabetes is fairly general — I know it's a major health issue, but I don't yet have a deep grasp of its underlying mechanisms or the range of treatment approaches used to manage it. Since diabetes is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases among modern populations, I believe it's important to understand it thoroughly, not just superficially. Through this virtual program, I hope to gain exactly that: a clearer understanding of how diabetes develops and how it's treated, learned in a real, human context rather than just through textbooks. I'd also like to build experience communicating that knowledge in a way that's supportive and easy for campers and families to understand, which I see as an important skill for any future role that involves working closely with patients.”

“My career interest is to become a nurse researcher who is dedicated to improving health outcomes for people living with diabetes. As someone living with type 1 diabetes, I hope to learn more about diabetes research that leads to better treatments and improves the quality of life for people affected by the disease. I hope to learn more about diabetes research, learn from experienced researchers, improve my research skills, and connect with mentors and other students who share my interest in making a difference in diabetes care.”

“I hope to gain practical knowledge, professional mentorship, and meaningful connections with peers and experts from around the world. Through this virtual program, I want to strengthen my leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills while gaining exposure to new ideas and best practices in healthcare and innovation. I also hope to deepen my understanding of how emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence and digital health, can improve patient care and healthcare systems. In addition, I look forward to expanding my global network, learning from diverse perspectives, and identifying opportunities for future collaboration in research and community health initiatives. Ultimately, I hope this program will equip me with the skills, confidence, and international perspective needed to become a compassionate physician, contribute to improving healthcare in underserved communities, and create a lasting positive impact throughout my career.”

“Having previously attended the program, I gained an exceptional foundational overview of the clinical and research challenges in diabetes care. Returning to the program now, equipped with a much stronger background in biochemistry and molecular biology, I hope to engage with the lectures at a deeper, more analytical level. I want to focus on the advanced pharmacology and biotechnological aspects of current clinical trials, while continuing to expand my professional network within academic medicine.”

“I aspire to become a biomedical scientist focused on translating medical discoveries about the mechanisms that drive disease into meaningful contributions to healthcare. Having grown up in the more rural parts of Lesotho, I have witnessed firsthand how chronic diseases can have devastating consequences for individuals and families when access to health education, preventive care, and timely intervention is limited. Seeing the impact of chronic illness on a close family member sparked my curiosity about how and why preventable diseases develop, how they progress, and how research can lead to better prevention and treatment.
My long-term goal is to contribute to biomedical research that advances our understanding of disease and improves health outcomes. I plan to investigate the molecular and cellular processes underlying human disease while working alongside researchers and clinicians to translate scientific discoveries into practical solutions. Through a career in biomedical science, I want to contribute to innovations that improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, particularly for underserved communities where access to quality healthcare remains limited.  Through this program, I want to strengthen my understanding of biomedical research and reinforce my aspiration to become a biomedical scientist. I want to leave the program with a broader perspective on diabetes research and a stronger foundation for pursuing a career dedicated to advancing our understanding of human disease.”

“I am currently in my third gap year, planning to apply to Medical school in the 2027 application cycle. My long term goal is to become a physician who can improve patient care with research for patients with chronic diseases. My interest first started in my very own family, and the significant impact it has on my mother's day to day life. With this interest, during my undergraduate years, I was involved in a 12 week research study involving examining the role of exercise in measure of nerve function of type 1 diabetic patients. I'm interested in expanding my knowledge of diabetes as a whole, through this program and further this into my future career. I hope to gain more of an understanding of diabetes beyond what what I have learned so far and how I would love to learn more about how this chronic disease affects patient's lives, preventative measures during the pre-diabetes stage, and how to approach treatment in type1 vs type 2 DM. I look forward to hear from medical professional and researchers.”

“Medical graduate preparing for USMLE Step 1, with plans to continue through Step 2 and residency in Internal Medicine.”

“I am a medical student interested in clinical medicine, medical research, and evidence-based practice. I am particularly interested in understanding diabetes and other chronic diseases, as well as how research can be translated into better patient care. My goal is to develop strong clinical and research skills, gain experience working with healthcare professionals and researchers, and eventually contribute to meaningful research that improves patient outcomes. I am also interested in pursuing further medical training internationally and continuing to develop my academic and professional skills.  I aim to develop a deeper understanding of diabetes from both clinical and research perspectives. I hope to learn from experienced physicians and researchers, strengthen my ability to critically appraise scientific literature, and gain a clearer understanding of how research findings can be translated into patient care. I also look forward to engaging with fellow medical students and professionals who share similar interests, and to applying the knowledge gained from this program to support my future academic and clinical development.”

“As a newly appointed endocrinologist, my primary interests are type 1 and type 2 diabetes, diabetes technology, obesity, and medical education. I hope to build a career in academic endocrinology where I can combine clinical care, teaching, and research to improve the lives of people living with diabetes. I'm especially interested in helping patients better understand and use diabetes technology in their everyday lives.  I hope this program will provide additional practical perspectives on diabetes self-management, patient education, and ways to better support patients outside of the clinic. I also hope to connect with others who are passionate about diabetes care.”

“I participated in last year's program upon suggestion from my co-mentor. I absolutely loved it and I'm excited to return for a second camp!”

“As someone with a family history of diabetes and a personal journey navigating PCOS, I possess firsthand patient-level insight into metabolic health challenges. However, to achieve my long-term goal of pursuing a Ph.D. at the intersection of AI, data science, and healthcare, I need to systematically transition from patient advocacy to rigorous clinical understanding. I hope to gain foundational knowledge in biomedical diabetes research from leading experts to bridge my technical data science gaps. Additionally, I hope to build a meaningful professional network of clinicians and researchers to discover collaborative opportunities and refine my future doctoral research objectives. I have been closely following the Diabetes Virtual Camp since last year. At that time, I was not yet enrolled as a student, but I kept track of the initiative with the explicit goal of joining once the timing aligned with my academic pivot. Now that I am an M.S. Candidate in Applied Data Science, I have a clear, refined vision of my research direction at the intersection of AI, CGM data, and diabetes prevention. Having established this focused path, I am applying now to fully align my current graduate studies with the program's unique clinical insights.”

“I am seeking to participate in the Diabetes Virtual Camp as part of professional development as I start as a new faculty to nurture the skills to fluently translate the basic science knowledge and medicine I've been taught about diabetes management to be more patient-centered while advancing my field.”

“Through this program I am also able to keep my family informed about other information regarding diabetes, as some of my family members also have diabetes. This would also be a good learning opportunity for me both as a student and an individual, I will be able to have open discussions which would improve communication skills.”

“I hope to gain knowledge of different aspects of medicine. Diabetes has always been a big part of my world because it runs in my family. My dad is currently Pre-diabetic as well as my grandma. I hope to educate myself on this topic to the best of my ability. I learned about the program through my interest in diabetes research and after reading some of Dr. Jason Kim’s work. I also attended the Diabetes Virtual Summer Camp last year, which was a valuable experience and motivated me to participate again this year. I learned about this program through my older sister, a 3rd-year student at UMass Chan Medical School. My sister recommended this program to me because she knows I am deeply interested in research and learning more about various medical topics, including diabetes.”

“I am currently a first year medical student with a strong interest in endocrinology and diabetes care. My grandfather who raised me has been living with type 2 diabetes, giving me a first- hand and appreciation of the challenge the patients and their families face during my internship in Dr. Kim’s lab, I was introduced to type two diabetes research which spark my interest and a lasting interest in the field. As I continue my medical training, I hope to contribute to improving diabetes, prevention, treatment, and patient education through both clinical practice and research.”

“My interest in metabolic health is both personal and professional. Paying closer attention to my own blood glucose levels gave me a real appreciation for how complex glucose management can be. At the same time, I noticed how media and social platforms are flooded with content about obesity drugs, blood sugar diets, and wellness trends. I wanted to move past the noise and learn the real, evidence-based science behind them. Learning directly from leading diabetes researchers is an incredible opportunity. With an aging global population and rising obesity rates, metabolic disease will remain at the heart of the pharmaceutical industry. The insights from this camp won't just help my pharmacy coursework; they will give me the tools to read primary research papers critically and stay informed throughout my career.”

“I hope to learn more about diabetes research and treatment. I have family members who struggle with diabetes which led me on a path to learn more about diabetes and how it affects people. I want to see how research is done to help real people in the real world.”

“My grandma has type 2 diabetes, and my father is prediabetic, so I have seen how common and impactful this condition can be within families. This has made me want to understand not just the symptoms, but the biological processes behind how diabetes develops. I also want to learn how diabetes can be managed and prevented so I can share this knowledge with others in my community. As a pre-health/pre-med student, I am excited to learn from physicians, medical students, and researchers. I hope this program will deepen my understanding of diabetes and introduce me to biomedical research as I prepare for a future in healthcare.”

“As a registered nurse, my career goal is to move into diabetes research, combining my clinical experience with a deeper focus on improving outcomes for patients managing diabetes. Working on a stepdown unit at Mount Sinai has given me firsthand insight into how diabetes complicates recovery and long-term health, and I'm pursuing an advanced nursing degree to build the research and clinical skills needed to contribute to this field. I'm especially interested in bridging bedside nursing experience with research that leads to better prevention, treatment, and management strategies for diabetes patients. I hope this virtual program gives me exposure to diabetes research from a perspective I don't get on the floor as a bedside nurse things like how studies are designed, how data on patient outcomes gets collected and analyzed, and how research findings eventually shape clinical practice. I also want to build connections with people already working in the field, since I'm still early in figuring out how to transition from clinical nursing into research. Ultimately I want to walk away with a clearer sense of what a research-focused nursing path could look like for me.”