Finishing medical training marks an important milestone—but it also raises new questions about the road ahead. Transitioning into clinical practice, whether private or academic, can be both energizing and overwhelming. To help guide residents through this critical phase, Johnson & Johnson offers the Ophthalmic Resident Symposium (ORS), an annual educational experience built for emerging ophthalmologists.

The Fall 2025 ORS at the Johnson & Johnson Institute was an exclusive one-day educational experience tailored for PGY-4 ophthalmology residents and fellows from across the US (Figure). The program offered a comprehensive, high-engagement curriculum focused on providing attendees with core cataract surgery skills, preparation for life after residency, and instilling confidence in managing the unexpected during the early years of clinical practice.

Figure. Designed for PGY-4 ophthalmology residents and fellows, attendees learn how to navigate the unexpected through the initial years in practice.

What Participants Experienced

• Gained practical and conceptual understanding of cataract surgery fundamentals
• Reviewed biometry principles and IOL calculation strategies through paired didactics and wet-lab learning
• Engaged in hands on training through the Phaco wet lab and dedicated lens loading stations
• Participated in sessions that highlighted the TECNIS® portfolio and best practices in astigmatism management
• Participated in a focused panel on transitioning to early practice and navigating common early-career challenges
• Engaged directly with faculty experts—including Keith Walter, MD; Karolinne Rocha, MD, PhD; Brian Szabo, DO; Priya Mathews, MD, MPH; and Nicole Bajic, MD—during interactive lectures, case-based discussions, and small-group learning modules

The program was preceded by a networking dinner the evening before, offering a valuable opportunity for residents and fellows to connect with faculty, colleagues, and members of the Johnson & Johnson academic team in a relaxed, collegial setting.

Testimonials

"I really enjoyed being a part of residency education [as a faculty moderator]. There is no better way to do this than to concentrate it during a weekend with J&J's support and state of the art wet lab facilities in Boca Raton. The format and educational curriculum were perfect as well as the interactive nature of the faculty presentations." – Keith Walter, MD (Ophthalmologist, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center)

“The quality of the overall program is top notch—from the stellar faculty to the high yield lectures to optimize surgical outcomes, and a state-of-the-art wet lab too. If you ever get the chance to do this course—jump at it right away, you won’t be disappointed!” – Nicole Bajic, MD (Ophthalmologist, Cleveland Clinic)

"I truly enjoyed participating in J&J’s Ophthalmic Resident Symposium this year [as faculty].  Every component of the program was high-yield, from the engaging lectures and discussions to the small-group sessions, IOL loading, and phaco wet labs.  I was impressed by the state-of-the-art facilities and, most of all, the residents’ enthusiasm and energy.  Also, the symposium offered a valuable opportunity for residents from across the country to connect during fellowship interview season. 10/10—I would highly recommend this experience to any third-year ophthalmology resident!" – Priya Mathews, MD (Ophthalmologist, Center for Sight)

“I had a fantastic time at the J&J ORS. It was an extremely helpful way to refine my understanding of not only the fundamentals, but also the detailed nuances of cataract surgery. I also found the wet-lab and lens loading station extremely helpful for additional hands-on practice. I would recommend all residents attend this course in the future!” – Dennis Akrobetu, MD (Ophthalmology Resident Physician, Havard Medical School Department of Ophthalmology)

This course was a phenomenal experience for any budding ophthalmologist. I was impressed at the organization and scope of the material presented, which is very applicable during residency and early career work. All the presenters were incredibly kind and helpful; more than one offered to reach out personally. I would highly recommend this course.” – Adam Lewis, DO (Ophthalmology Resident, Saint Louis University School of Medicine Department of Ophthalmology)