Quitting Fellowship

[Mystique14]

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Hi,
I am looking at quitting my fellowship after the first year (June '14). I wanted some advice about when I should be talking to the PD about my decision and what would be the legal issues related with this?
I have not signed my contract renewal. What is the latest I need to inform my PD of my decision.
Thanks!!

 

[oldbearprofessor]

Folks quit fellowship all the time for a wide range of reasons. Assuming that you are quitting, not transfering or taking a LOA, then the sooner the better, especially before they start scheduling next year. You should be aware that IF you leave on very good terms, and decide to return within a year, the program can, if they want, petition for your reinstatement without losing anything. After that, it becomes much harder if at all possible to return. There is no reason not to have that conversation tomorrow if you are sure. The better the terms of your departure, the better off you'll be as even though leaving, you may ultimately have the PD providing input for recs for future jobs.

 

[Stitch]

I agree, the sooner the better. It's going to affect everyone's schedule, so it's best they can prepare for it. Leaving last minute without notice really isn't fair to your co-fellows or program. Be up front and you will likely be on better terms.

 

[Mystique14]

Thank you for your responses. My other worry is the legal consequences. I have signed a contract for 1 year, are there any requirements for me to have to sign a renewal? I did not notice anything like that in my current contract.

 

[oldbearprofessor]

Thank you for your responses. My other worry is the legal consequences. I have signed a contract for 1 year, are there any requirements for me to have to sign a renewal? I did not notice anything like that in my current contract.

No

 

[Mystique14]

Ok. Does anyone know what are the consequences of breaking a bond in the middle of the year?

 

[oldbearprofessor]

say what? If you mean quitting in mid-year, although at this point there is nothing they can do about it, you'll burn bridges that you are very unlikely to want to burn. That is, unless you are planning on giving up medicine entirely in which case there is nothing they can do but be angry.