prestigious programs

[pathresident1]

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Just a little questions for people who are in these programs, or who may not even be in one of these programs. Do you think being in a prestigious program harms your ability to learn how to be a pathologist, in the sense that maybe you are working so many hours it cuts down on your opportunities for independent study. I just feel like the time spent studying outside of work contributes greatly to one's ability to be a good pathologist, and that being in a great program with long hours would hurt one's learning opportunities by decreasing the amount of time available for independent study and research. Maybe I'm being naive, but I just wanted to get some opinions on this issue.

 

[exPCM]

It is typically better to go to a prestige program because those programs will generally be better in helping you land a good job. Residency just gives you the basics in pathology. I learned far more about pathology in my first year of practice than in my entire residency and I think this is typical no matter what residency program you attend. Independent study and research are helpful but actually practicing is the key to becoming a top pathologist IMHO.

Generally you do not become a great pathologist in residency. You become a great pathologist by practicing pathology with a good group of experienced pathologists where you can show difficult cases around. Some people are "great" residents but when they get in practice they freeze up and can't make the call on their own.

 

[lipomas]

Go to the best program you can.

Residency should be about pushing yourself (it can help if the program pushes you also), learning as much as you can. Residency should not be the time to take long vacations and go home early. Thus, go to the best program you can. You will make more connections, see more complicated specimens, and probably get a better education (although many small programs do a great job with teaching with what they have).

There is always time for independent study. I would wager that no matter how much time you spend at the hospital, most residents end up studying the same amount outside of the hospital.