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Wow! Intern year is almost over. And yes, I've been almost entirely MIA for the duration (does anyone around this place remember me?). However, I like to think that I've accumulated some small amount of wisdom that can be shared with the incoming interns. I'm hoping that some other residents can share some words of wisdom since we all remember how anxiety-inducing the beginning of intern year can be!
1. No one really cares how much you know in the beginning of intern year. Your ability to take a history, do a physical, assess a patient and synthesize SOME sort of plan (even if it's totally wrong) is important.
2. Also important is your ability to relate to people. Your patients, your senior residents, YOUR CONSULTANTS, and ancillary staff. Yes, this involves some groveling. However, a few weeks of groveling can create years and years of productive relationships. Say "How are you?" and be interested in the answer. Smile. Say thank you. Apologize if you get overly-tired and snappish (it means a lot more than you would think - and I know this from personal experience).
3. Do what you can to create a fun social environment within your program. Bigger programs can get clique-ish, and tend to divide between single people, couples, and families with children. Be the person who invites EVERYONE, regardless of whether you think they are going to show up. I've found this really fosters relationships within the program and creates a culture that is perpetuated.
Hoping people will add to this!
1. No one really cares how much you know in the beginning of intern year. Your ability to take a history, do a physical, assess a patient and synthesize SOME sort of plan (even if it's totally wrong) is important.
2. Also important is your ability to relate to people. Your patients, your senior residents, YOUR CONSULTANTS, and ancillary staff. Yes, this involves some groveling. However, a few weeks of groveling can create years and years of productive relationships. Say "How are you?" and be interested in the answer. Smile. Say thank you. Apologize if you get overly-tired and snappish (it means a lot more than you would think - and I know this from personal experience).
3. Do what you can to create a fun social environment within your program. Bigger programs can get clique-ish, and tend to divide between single people, couples, and families with children. Be the person who invites EVERYONE, regardless of whether you think they are going to show up. I've found this really fosters relationships within the program and creates a culture that is perpetuated.
Hoping people will add to this!
