The San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium® will be a can’t-miss gathering of breast cancer researchers, clinicians, and patient advocates. Each year, thousands of attendees from around the world make time to join the robust scientific program and opportunities for networking and career growth at SABCS® 2025.
Paolo Tarantino, MD, research fellow in medicine at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, will be attending SABCS® for his fifth year. Lindsay Peterson, MD, MSCR, a medical oncologist and associate professor, Division of Medical Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, will be attending her 16th consecutive year at SABCS®. They both shared why they are returning in 2025.
What is one SABCS® session or event that you most always attend?
Dr. Tarantino: I never miss the SABCS® poster sessions. More than in other meetings, SABCS® always includes stellar poster presentations, with impactful clinical and preclinical data, and with the opportunity to meet and discuss science with the authors. Plus, there’s always plenty of drinks and good food to make the sessions more enjoyable!
Dr. Peterson: I’ve always loved the View from the Trenches: What to do on Monday Morning sessions. At the end of the day, our most important job is providing patients with the most up-to-date care. These sessions, with their focus on when and how to thoughtfully adopt the latest data, help us translate research into meaningful improvements in care.
What is your single, most memorable experience from all the years you have attended SABCS®?
Dr. Tarantino: At SABCS® 2024, I was tasked with chairing the People’s Choice session on antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), which became an unforgettable academic experience. Fueled by the enthusiasm raised by these emerging molecules, the room was completely packed, the interest was palpable. By the end of the session, there was a huge line of people waiting to ask questions to the faculty. I decided to cancel my next meeting and stay to take as many questions as possible. It was a wise choice — several great connections and collaborations were born after that ADC session.
How has attending SABCS® enriched your career at different stages?
Dr. Peterson: SABCS® has been the most concentrated update in breast oncology available in the United States. As a fellow, it was instrumental in helping me choose my career path. As a junior faculty member, it gave me the confidence to stay on top of the latest practice-changing data. Now, after 16 consecutive years, the greatest highlight is reconnecting with mentors and colleagues from across the country.
What is your advice on finding the right balance between attending sessions and making time for the informal events and opportunities during the day?
Dr. Tarantino: One of the biggest advantages of SABCS® is its size. Within a relatively compact space, you encounter some of the greatest world experts in breast oncology, some of the most inspiring educational sessions, and some of the most impactful oral and poster presentations. Balancing each of these components is personal and depends a lot on your career stage. However, what I always try to do and what I would recommend to anyone is to leave some space for random encounters in the agenda. The most valuable encounters at SABCS® are often the spontaneous ones you had not scheduled. It’s the magic of SABCS®!
Dr. Peterson: 1) Prioritize sessions: Identify the talks or panels you most want to attend in person and block those times out. 2) Utilize on-demand wisely: Schedule meetings, networking, or informal events during sessions you plan to catch up on later via on demand. 3) Protect your energy: Build in short breaks for movement, meals, or rest to prevent conference fatigue. 4) Stay flexible: Leave a little room for spontaneous conversations or unexpected opportunities — they’re often the most valuable part!
How long will you spend traveling to SABCS® and how will you spend those hours?
Dr. Tarantino: The trip from Boston to San Antonio is always a reminder that everything in life is relative: Five hours on the plane can be considered a long trip, yet it is the blink of an eye compared to what many foreign colleagues endure to reach San Antonio. My flight is always memorable because most of my colleagues from Boston institutions grab the same plane, and the flight ends up feeling like something between an aerial tumor board and a team-building activity!
What is your advice for any fellow attendees who might wish to spend a day or two after SABCS exploring the area?
Dr. Peterson: San Antonio is great! La Villita is a favorite for art and souvenirs. If you have the time, a drive up to hill country is beautiful. Try to catch live music or enjoy one of many amazing restaurants in the King William Historic District. Walking around the homes in the area and checking out the River Walk extension are also great ways to get some steps in!
