FIG. 1.

A reflection on the journey of ECIs through the shifting landscape of COVID-19. First, we reacted with feelings of grief, anxiety, and guilt; this phase was characterized with more questions than answers. Second, we adapted by protecting those around us, communicating our concerns and questions, prioritizing new strategies (including making sacrifices), and networked with our peers and senior mentors. Finally, we envisioned our new reality as ECIs by preparing to chart new paths and possibly pivot our work to maintain our careers in the years ahead. ECI, early career investigator.