100 Oncologists, One Community: Reflections from the First ESO College Convention

100 Oncologists, One Community: Reflections from the First ESO College Convention

The 1st ESO College Convention, organized by the European School of Oncology (ESO) College, took place from August 29 to 31, 2025, at the National Institute of Oncology in Budapest. This vibrant event brought together 100 oncologists and oncology professionals for a unique opportunity to reconnect, expand professional networks, and gain valuable career insights within the oncology field.

The convention featured expert-led roundtable discussions, interactive advice clinics, and engaging social activities designed to promote learning, collaboration, and a strong sense of community among attendees in the ESO oncology network. OncoDaily conducted live interviews during the event and highlights enriching and engaging experience that defined this pioneering gathering in oncology.

ESO College Convention

Oncology Community also shared highlights from the event:

European School of Oncology (ESO):

“On 30 August 2025, Budapest hosted the first-ever ESO College Convention: an inspiring day of learning, networking, and collaborating.

The Convention brought together past and present ESO College participants to:

– Reconnect with colleagues and expand professional networks
– Share insights through roundtable discussions and interactive workshops
– Challenge knowledge in the lively OncoQuiz
– Celebrate the sense of belonging to a vibrant oncology community

A warm thank you to everyone who joined us in Budapest and contributed to making this inaugural event such a meaningful and memorable experience.”

100 Oncologists, One Community: Reflections from the First ESO College Convention

Monika Glibic, Oncology and Radiotherapy Resident at University Hospital Mostar:

“When giving his opening remarks dr. Alberto Costa said that European School of Oncology nowdays empowers young oncologists from “the other Europe”. I felt strangely proud. That made me think of how lucky both parties are.

Past three days were reserved for the first ever ESO College Convention held in Budapest – almost a hundred oncologists vibrantly networking and discussing career development.

Since these are the ones of the most ambitious and hardworking people that I met I can’t wait to see how the face of the future oncology is going to be impacted by colleagues from the other Europe.”

100 Oncologists, One Community: Reflections from the First ESO College Convention

Gordana Petkovska, Clinical Oncologist at University Clinic for Radiotherapy and Oncology Skopje:

“This weekend we attended the first ESO College convention in Budapest. It is such a great pleasure and enjoyment to be among colleagues and friends that share the same passion for education and saving lives.

As I’ve said before the European School of Oncology keeps shaping and upgrading our carriers and professional paths

Bonus was that our MDT No7 team won the Onco Quiz.”

Gordana Petkovska

Seyed Alireza Javadinia, Vice President for Research and Technology at Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences:

“Today, the European School of Oncology Convention in collaboration with OncoDaily has been started in Budapest, Hungary.

I have the privilege to participate and see so many brilliant scientists and somehow familiar faces (Eduard-Alexandru Bonci, Alisher Kahharov, Omnia Korani, Mohamed Emam Sobeih, Valeriia Lihostaieva, Narmin Majid and so on).
Hope to make more connections and discussions about the cancer care.”

Seyed Alireza Javadinia

Aleksandar Djuric, Teaching Assistant at University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Medicine:

“Had such a great time at this event – learning, sharing ideas, and enjoying quality moments with colleagues and friends. Excited for the next one!”

Fatjona Pupuleku Kraja, Associate Professor at University of Medicine, Tirana:

“The 1st ESO College Convention was a truly enriching experience, both professionally and personally. It offered the chance to reconnect with old colleagues, meet new ones, and engage in meaningful interactions. Through interactive workshops and insightful discussions, we gained valuable perspectives from experienced peers and discovered inspiring projects presented by the host institute.

It was truly inspiring to meet in person professors and colleagues who have motivated and influenced me throughout these years Alberto Costa, Alexandru Eniu , Matteo Lambertini , Panagiotis J. Vlachostergios, Assia Konsoulova, Monica-Emilia Chirilă, Miloš Grujić, Silvia Brotea-Mosoiu, Simona V., Eduard-Alexandru Bonci, Shushan Hovsepyan, Gordana Petkovska and a special thank you to Corinne Hall, Dolores Knupfer, Alice Ciocchini for organizining such an amaizing event.”

100 Oncologists, One Community: Reflections from the First ESO College Convention

Shushan Hovsepyan, Editor-in-Chief of OncoDaily Medical Journal and Co-Chair of the International Society of Pediatric Oncology Global Health Network Research and Innovation Working Group:

“It is always a pleasure to be back with the European School of Oncology.

Had a super productive and motivating 2 days with 100 oncologists all over the Europe. Met so many great people.

And one of the great highlights was the OncoDaily session with Amalya Sargsyan From nursery school to OncoDaily!

We are growing, community is growing, connections are building….

Thank you everyone and until next time….”

Shushan Hovsepyan

Adil Brahimi, Senior Oncology Resident at the University Hospital Center of Tirana:

“Grateful to have been part of the first ESO Convention.Together with 100 enthusiastic oncologists we shared more than just knowledge and experience. This was a time for reflecting, learning and believing that the future of Oncology rests in trusted hands.”

Kleida Mati, Medical Oncologist at Albania American Hospital:

“A day that reminded me how inspiring it is to belong to this oncology community.”

“OncoDaily – a global stage for oncologists in every corner of the world.”

Miloš Grujić, Co-Chair of Career Development Working Group at European School of Oncology:

“This weekend I had the privilege to be part of the ESO College Convention, which gathered more than 100 enthusiastic oncologists from across Europe and beyond in Budapest, Hungary.

Together with my colleague Prof. Dr. Assia Konsoulova, I was delighted to co-lead an interactive workshop on “How to be Head of Department”—a topic that sparked vibrant discussions on leadership, responsibility, and the future of oncology teams.

Another highlight was the OncoQuiz, where I had the honor of serving as Master Moderator alongside Dr. Eduard-Alexandru Bonci and Prof. Riccardo A. Audisio. It was really fun, full of energy, curiosity, and team spirit—exactly what this convention is about.

The whole idea of the ESO College Convention is truly great: a space for networking, collaboration, and growth among young oncologists.

Grateful to European School of Oncology and all colleagues who made this weekend so inspiring.”

100 Oncologists, One Community: Reflections from the First ESO College Convention

Brunilda Haxhiu, Oncologist at Radiotherapy Departament University Clinical Center of Kosovo – UCCK:

“Excellent presentation from OncoDaily Team!”

100 Oncologists, One Community: Reflections from the First ESO College Convention

Amil Družić, Oncology and Radiotherapy Resident at the Clinical Center University of Sarajevo:

“I had the pleasure of attending the European School of Oncology College Convention in Budapest with 100 professionals from diverse backgrounds in cancer care. You could feel the bridge of collaboration and I’m certain something meaningful will come out of this!”

Emir Sokolović, Medical Oncology Resident at Clinical center University of Sarajevo:

“A vibrant European School of Oncology College Convention gathered 100 oncologists in Budapest.
Grateful to the European School of Oncology and OncoDaily for their ongoing efforts to make cancer knowledge widely accessible.”

Narmin Talibova, Resident Physician at University Hospital Ulm:

“The most interesting part of ESO College Convention. We are the winners ”

100 Oncologists, One Community: Reflections from the First ESO College Convention

Amil Družić, Oncology and Radiotherapy Resident at the Clinical Center University of Sarajevo:

“30 August 2025, Budapest hosted the first-ever European School of Oncology College Convention at the National Institute of Oncology — and I’m grateful I had the chance to be part of it.

This unique gathering brought together 100 oncology professionals from different backgrounds. You could truly feel the energy of collaboration, new ideas, and the sense that something meaningful will grow from this community.

For me, ESO is more than education — it’s a hub of mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and friendships that go beyond borders. Being surrounded by such passionate colleagues reminded me once again why oncology is not just a field of science, but also a shared mission.

I’m also proud to share that my team won second prize in the OncoQuiz — a fun reminder that learning can be competitive and inspiring at the same time!

A heartfelt thank you to the ESO team for making this happen, and to everyone I met in Budapest for the inspiration, conversations, and memories.

And of course, a special mention to OncoDaily — the voice of oncology — for connecting and amplifying our community worldwide.”

100 Oncologists, One Community: Reflections from the First ESO College Convention

Eduard-Alexandru Bonci, Faculty Member at European School of Oncology:

“Budapest, 29–31 August 2025 – the first-ever European School of Oncology College Convention

I’ll confess: lately I’ve felt a bit of social media burnout, but some moments are too meaningful not to share.

This event wasn’t just a convention – it felt like a book of stories, laughter, and connection.

Some say videos and quick reels grab attention – and yes, a picture speaks a thousand words. But in today’s world of Social Media and AI, I believe universes are born from words, emotions, and the human touch. And in Budapest…we created many.

Highlights

ESO College Council and Working Groups Family and Friends – where careers and friendships grow side by side.

‘Doing a Fellowship Abroad’ Workshop – which I had the joy of co-leading with Silvia Brotea-Mosoiu, helping overcoming challenges and futures feel bigger.

Oncopedia – OncoQuiz with Miloš Grujić and the GrandMaster Moderator, Riccardo A. Audisio – proof that learning and science can come with a big smile.

Dinner on the Danube – where Budapest itself became part of our memories.

A treasured moment: receiving Alberto Costa’s autograph on ‘Umberto Veronesi: The Man in the White Coat’ – a reminder of the legacy that continues to inspire.

And of course, the countless conversations and shared smiles – the little things that turn colleagues into friends.

This ESO College Convention also came with a personal milestone: I’m truly proud to share that, together with my brother and partner in ‘PubMed crimes’ (Miloš Grujić), I have recently been appointed Faculty Member of the ESCO.

Special gratitude to Alberto Costa, Alexandru Eniu, Corinne Hall, Alice Ciocchini, and Dolores Knupfer – and to everyone whose presence and work made these days unforgettable.

Thank you, European School of Oncology, OncoDaily, and the National Institute of Oncology (Magdolna Dank MD) for hosting not just a meeting, but a universe of moments.

Until the next story we write together…”

100 Oncologists, One Community: Reflections from the First ESO College Convention

Enes Erul:

“Highlights from the first-ever ESO Convention.

•Visiting the National Institute of Oncology of Hungary
•Meeting my amazing mentor Prof. Alexandru Eniu and discussing new projects
•Meeting a true role model who inspired me deeply

Getting together with all the brilliant minds of global oncology

•Meeting OncoDaily – exciting collaborations are on the way.

What more could be expected from just a weekend?”

100 Oncologists, One Community: Reflections from the First ESO College Convention

Mohamed Emam Sobeih, Co-Chair of Membership Working Group at European School of Oncology:

“Great and happy moments with Dear Friends and Colleagues from all over the world to enhance global networking and fostering the scientifice research through ESO European School of Oncology School of Oncology and getting more involved in Social Activities.”

100 Oncologists, One Community: Reflections from the First ESO College Convention

Omnia Korani, Hematology and Bone Transplant Specialist at the Air Force Specialized Hospital:

“Grateful to have participated in the 1st ESO Convention — a truly inspiring experience and an important milestone in my journey.

This convention was more than just a meeting; it was a big step towards international collaboration, networking with brilliant minds, and shaping future opportunities for career growth.

I deeply appreciate the chance to learn, exchange ideas, and be part of such a global platform that is committed to advancing oncology education and practice.

Looking forward to building on this momentum and contributing further to our oncology community.”

100 Oncologists, One Community: Reflections from the First ESO College Convention

Eduard-Alexandru Bonci, Faculty Member at European School of Oncology:

“SPECIAL POST alert

from the first-ever European School of Oncology College Convention (Budapest, 29–31 August 2025)

I’ve never been so moved or impressed by any work as I have by the dedication of Georgina Fröhlich and the Pediatric Oncology Radiotherapy Unit at the National Institute of Oncology (Budapest, Hungary).

Their dedication is extraordinary, and anyone – whether from the richest or poorest country – who wants to truly understand the pediatric patient experience in oncology should learn from them and transform their own practice.

You cannot even imagine what some LEGO pieces can do for these little heroes – this is a story worth sharing widely.

And to the the LEGO Group / LEGO Education / Niels B. Christiansen – their story deserves your attention.”

 

Enes Erul:

“European School of Oncology is a family united by a sacred mission — extending the lives of our patients with cancer. For me, ESO is not only about education — it’s about mentorship, sharing knowledge, and building friendships that transcend borders. Being surrounded by such passionate colleagues reminded me once again that oncology is more than a science: it’s a shared mission.

OncoDaily is the place where we celebrate small victories together, stay instantly updated on new articles, raise awareness, amplify our collective voice, and truly feel part of the global oncology community.”

More posts featuring ESO on OncoDaily.