AAOS has many volunteers who contribute to the Academy’s examination development process. Through their experience and expertise, they offer their time to help build the future of our examination product offerings. Each quarter, we will celebrate these efforts with a featured volunteer in the AAOS Item Writer Spotlight.
Robert Esther, MD, FAAOS is our featured volunteer for the Fall 2024 AAOS Item Writer Spotlight. Dr. Esther has most recently served as the Chair for the Orthopaedic Fundamentals Evaluation Committee. We recently had the opportunity to talk with Dr. Esther about volunteering with the Academy and the great contributions he has made.
Thank you, Dr. Esther!
Tell us about your background as an orthopaedic surgeon.
I have been in practice at the University of North Carolina my whole career, since 2006 (Go Tarheels!). In my clinical practice, I am the tumor, or “lump and bump” person. I serve as vice chair in our department, have been the residency program director for the past 12 years, and oversee the basic science course.
How many years have you been an AAOS volunteer?
I have been volunteering with AAOS since 2008. I was only a few years in practice before I started my volunteer activities.
What has been the most rewarding thing about participating in exam development?
Exam development is so rewarding, giving me the chance to work with dedicated, outstanding team members and professionals. I collaborate with other committee volunteers, as well as staff. It’s great to contribute to the profession, working with colleagues who give their time and talent to work on something outside their institution and bigger than themselves. Ultimately, it enhances how well we perform as teachers and physicians in our daily lives.
What is your best advice to new item writers?
Put yourselves in exam-takers’ shoes and think about it from their perspective. Think back to when you were a resident. Think about the key concept you want to emphasize on an item and work backwards. These fundamentals help lead to a good item. Don’t overthink it.
Any advice from being a chair for so many years (Super Chair)?
Aspire to be thoughtful and responsive. Be a reasonable person. This same advice can be applied to both doctor and dad roles. What inspired your decision to specialize in orthopaedic oncology? I was a history major in college while doing pre-med studies. I always valued making connections between different disciplines. Good oncologic care involves daily interactions with a wide range of specialties, so this field seemed like a natural fit given its interdisciplinary nature.
Can you share a memorable family tradition or anecdote that has shaped your approach to life and work?
My parents were always available and never made me feel like I was bothering them regardless of how big or small a perceived problem was. I try to take the same approach in my own parenting. I also try and hope I am successful in being approachable to residents and students here at UNC. I tell residents to treat everyone with respect, regardless of their role.
Do you have any pets? If so, how do they contribute to your daily life and well-being?
We have a 15-year-old rescue mutt, Lucy, who looks like a lab. We have three cats. One cat, Stanley, likes to play fetch, so he keeps us busy! Our pets are important members of our household and enrich our lives. It’s great for our kids to grow up with animals.