Outside: Fellows' BIL Retreat 2025

September 2, 2025

Last Friday, August 29, fellows from across the department came together for their annual Balance in Life retreat. This year’s event took place at Huddart Park in San Mateo.  

“These retreats are critical for creating a sense of belonging and preventing isolation. Many fellows are moving to new locations, away from family and other support systems, while also facing the demanding nature of fellowship. Having opportunities to build connections early on—both within the department and with peers at similar points in their careers—is crucial,” said Associate Chair of Education Dr. Cara Liebert.  

The day kicked off with lively “get to know you” games. After a few ice breaks, the fellows engaged in discussions about their experiences, sharing tips and brainstorming innovative ideas to enhance their training journey.

“It really helped break the ice and made us feel like a true community,” said Dr. Jacquelyn Yu, a second-year Abdominal Transplantation Fellow. 

Post-lunch, the atmosphere shifted into high-energy team-building mode. In a series of exhilarating challenges—complete with Morse code deciphering, mind-bending riddles, and even an intense game of tube golf—the fellows showcased their problem-solving prowess and teamwork. The real highlight? A competitive knot-tying contest that proved both entertaining and perfectly suited for the surgical minds in attendance.

“It was nice to take on a new challenge and do something outside the box,” said Dr. Jenny Yu, a second-year complex surgical oncology fellow.  

As the sun set, the group made their way to Devil’s Canyon Brewing Company in nearby San Carlos for a cozy dinner that welcomed family members as well. The atmosphere buzzed with the chatter of fellows mingling with their significant others and children, deepening connections outside the confines of the hospital walls.

“It’s been great getting to know people and discovering shared interests we can explore outside of the hospital,” said Microsurgery Fellow Dr. Alvin Annen.

Media Contact

Rachel Baker
Rachel Baker
Director of Communications
(650) 723-2301
rebaker@stanford.edu

Bio

As the Director of Communications for Stanford Surgery, Rachel Baker tells the stories of her department's faculty, staff, and trainees. With the help of an amazing team of content creators, she produces and curates original articles, photos, videos, graphics, and podcasts. She works with each division, center, program, and lab within her purview to define their audience and reach their goals while maintaining a consistent brand voice. She also offers both 1:1 and group education on a variety of topics including media training, using social media to advantage, and presentation refinement. Rachel holds a Bachelor's degree in journalism with a focus on photography from Syracuse University's S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Strategic Communications from the University of Maryland.

About Stanford Surgery

The Stanford University Department of Surgery is dedicated to inventing the future of surgical care through:

• pioneering cutting-edge research, 
• developing the next generation of leaders, and 
• healing through incomparable surgical skills and compassion. 

To learn more, please visit surgery.stanford.edu

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