As part of our ongoing effort to support the next generation of HIV care professionals, the American Academy of HIV Medicine hosted three Student Listening Sessions between October 2024 and March 2025. These sessions were designed to give students the chance to ask real questions and get real answers from providers who’ve been in their shoes. Panelists included Dr. Alftan Dyson, Dr. Leonard Sowah, Dr. Laura Armas, Dr. Angela Riley, Dr. Cassandra Esperant, and Michelle Sariev, NP – each bringing diverse experience across medicine, pharmacy, nursing, advocacy, and public health. Discussions focused on the realities of early career development, including how to navigate uncertainty, find mentorship, and balance personal well-being with professional goals. One question that deeply resonated with students was: “What steps or opportunities did you take to bridge the gap between your student self and your professional self?” The responses were candid, often personal, and reminded students that there’s no one right path, just the importance of being intentional, persistent, and open to growth.
These sessions, alongside recent surveys, offered an important window into what students are thinking, what they need, and what’s getting in the way. Many shared that they’re eager to join the HIV workforce but aren’t sure where to start. A lack of structured exposure, confusion around certification pathways, limited HIV-specific job opportunities, and difficulty securing the patient care hours required for credentials like AAHIVS and AAHIVP were common themes. Financial concerns were also front of mind. As one student put it, “New pharmacy graduates don’t typically get hired in clinical settings that allow them to fulfill patient care requirements for certification. I’m not sure where to start if I can’t find a job that supports this experience.”
Students also shared what would make a difference: clearer guidance, more visible pathways, and earlier support. They want to know how to get certified, how to evaluate residencies for HIV focus, and how to align their broader career goals with HIV care. Many are still figuring out where their interests fit – whether in direct care, research, or advocacy – and want mentorship to help make those connections. “I am very new, so maybe we just aren’t aware of where these opportunities are or how to get started in an HIV care career,” one participant shared. These concerns were paired with a strong desire for real-world exposure, storytelling, and connection.
Beyond technical barriers, students also spoke honestly about what it might feel like to work in this field long term. Emotional burnout, stress, and work-life balance came up frequently, along with stigma and misinformation. The sessions gave space for these concerns and encouraged an honest look at what it takes to sustain a career in HIV care, not just to start one.
When asked what kinds of support would help, the answers were consistent: more mentorship, more training, more professional networks, and financial support to ease the burden. As one student put it, “Better access to mentors and opportunities for practical learning would make this a more realistic and exciting path.”
These conversations weren’t just informative, they were a call to action. Students are motivated and ready to serve, but they need more support getting from interest to impact. The feedback from these sessions will help shape how we build those bridges through mentorship, structured training, and earlier career exposure. With continued investment and intentional support, we can help ensure that this next generation is not only prepared to enter the field, but also inspired to lead it.
