I’m officially done with my first year of residency. Transitions are always weird for me because for all the pomp and circumstance that goes into discussing and celebrating these life transitions, I never really feel all that different. But I think that has more to do with the fact that growth is a gradual process. Taking the time now to reflect on the doctor I was at the start of residency to where I am now, the difference is pretty significant, whereas the difference between today and yesterday is pretty small. It’s been a year of constantly being pushed outside of my comfort zone, of feeling inadequate on a regular basis, a year of learning from mistakes. It’s also been a year of some amazing human connections both with patients and colleagues and of surprising myself with what I am now capable of.
I expected intern year of residency to be the hardest year of my life, in large part due to the horror stories told to me by those who have gone through the experience before me (both 1 year ago and 50 years ago). And while yes it was very challenging at times, and not to forget the fact that residency is much different today than it was 50 years ago, I’d venture to say that this actually was one of the best years of my life.
I have felt so fortunate in that I get to do a job where I am constantly learning and get to learn new things everyday. I don’t dread waking up to go to work (90% of the time) and I love that I get to work in career that allows me to continue exploring and deepen my love for science while also giving me opportunities to work with and connect with other people on a very basic human level.
I’m excited for what second year is going to bring and looking forward to the opportunities to continue growing and to mentor the next generation of doctors.
nANIMOv 