Cancer and Aging Research Group

Improving the care of older adults with cancer

CARG Buddy Program

The CARG Buddy Program was originally created to provide an avenue for junior researchers interested in advancing geriatric oncology to be paired with senior CARG members. The Program has grown to connect researchers new to the field of geriatric oncology or to a novel subject within geriatric oncology with senior researchers in the field. Through these connections, the Program aims to support the growth of geriatric oncology researchers.

MISSION
The overarching goal of this program is to provide an opportunity for new CARG members (or others who feel the need to reconnect) to connect with an established CARG member to provide an introduction to the CARG community/infrastructure, and serve as an advisor to facilitate career development, sponsorship, collaboration, and/or networking in the field of cancer and aging.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A BUDDY?
Each CARG Buddy relationship varies and can be tailored to your needs and interests. You can discuss what you are looking for in your first meeting. We suggest talking at least twice per year if possible. We also encourage touching base at in-person meetings that you might both be attending such as ASCO, ASH, and SIOG when possible. The relationship can be informal and meetings infrequent or can evolve into a more formal mentoring relationship related to specific projects (see some examples below). Either way, we know you will enjoy getting to know one another and hope this provides an opportunity for networking, career advice and sponsorship.

CARG BUDDY PROGRAM APPLICATION
If you are interested in matching with a CARG Buddy, please submit your inquiry HERE.
If you are interested in participating as a “senior” CARG Buddy, please email CARinG@coh.org. We receive requests from all levels and encourage anyone interested to reach out.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Read more about our CARG Buddy highlights in the Cancer and Aging Research Report

FAQ
Q: What are some tips for developing an engaging Buddy relationship?
A: Do not be afraid to reach out to your Buddy, multiple times if needed.
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Q: What are some specific topics Buddies cover with each other?
A: Career development, manuscript writing opportunities, collaboration opportunities, research network growth, research opportunities.
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Q: How many times should the Buddies meet? Or What is the estimated time commitment?
A: There is no set number of meetings expected. This pairing is flexible, and you and your Buddy may meet as many times as requested. We recommend meeting at least twice a year. However, this is totally up to the Buddies.
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Q: How are the matched made? Who makes the matches?
A: The Buddy Program Task Force meets every other month and matches Buddies. These matches are based on area of research or clinical interest, specific goals (if any), and other specific requests from the junior Buddy.
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Q: What are some characteristics of a successful Buddy pair?
A: Success is defined in different ways by participants. Buddies may facilitate career development, collaboration, or networking. A few characteristics are: clear communication on your expectations and needs will help your senior Buddy help meet your needs; and being proactive with your senior Buddy and scheduling meetings as needed.
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Q: What kind of support can be expected form the Buddy Program after being matched?
A: As much as we will try to fit your need, not every match is a success. If you are having difficulty connecting with your Buddy, we encourage you to let us know by sending an email to CARinG@coh.org or submitting a new inquiry form. Our goal is to connect you with a Buddy connection who will introduce you to the CARG community and infrastructure and may serve as an advisor to facilitate career development, sponsorship, collaboration, and/or networking in the field of cancer and aging.

CARG Buddy Program Task Force

FUNCTION
The function of the CARG Buddy Program Task Force is to match, oversee and support the mission of the CARG Buddy Program while integrating opportunities for enhancement/adaptations into the CARG infrastructure, making recommendations to CARG leadership, assessing outcomes, and collaborating with CARinG Cores to enhance effectiveness of the program.

MEMBERS OF THE CARG BUDDY PROGRAM TASK FORCE

CARG BUDDY PROGRAM TASK FORCE MEMBER APPLICATION
If you are interested in joining the CARG Buddy Program Task Force, please email CARinG@coh.org.

Registration

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