Every year, a fresh group of medical school graduates start residency programs. Getting into
residency programs can be challenging, with some programs having very few spots and
hundreds, if not thousands, of applicants applying for the same position. For instance, in the
United States, approximately 45,000 applicants compete for about 42,000 residency positions,
as reported in the 2024 Main Residency Match, making it a highly competitive process.
This year marks 20 years since I started my medical school journey—and boy, has it ever been
a journey! It feels like I've lived multiple lifetimes—20 years of highs, lows, and moments of
despair. The journey was extremely challenging, but I'm grateful to be where I am today, armed
with more wisdom than before.
To the fresh grads, I salute you and wish you all the best. I've taken time to reflect, and I'm going to share some advice with you as you start this journey—advice that, quite frankly, nobody told me when I started.
1. Your medical career should not define you: Your identity and self-worth are not solely
tied to your profession. While medicine is a noble and demanding field, remember that
you are a multi-faceted individual with diverse interests, talents, and relationships.
Cultivate hobbies, spend time with loved ones, and nurture other aspects of your
personality. This balance will make you a better doctor and a happier person.
2. You are more than numbers: I'm sure you remember your GPA, MCAT, and USMLE
scores. Ingrained in your mind is likely your Social Security Number, and soon, your NPI
number, and the list goes on. Though "unique" to you, these numbers do not represent
or appreciate the unique value you bring to the world. This value isn't quantitative or
measurable with traditional scales. It's more powerful than that. This value is the sum of
your experiences, charisma, ability to connect with others, and hopes and dreams.
Please keep an eye on what is most important.
3. Make your health a priority: The demands of a medical career can be overwhelming,
often leading to burnout. Remember to take care of your physical, mental, and emotional
health. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, healthy eating, and mindfulness practices are
essential. Seek help when you need it and don't hesitate to take breaks. A healthy doctor
is a more effective doctor.
4. Live within your means: Do not fall into financial traps, take on unnecessary debt, or
fall for too-good-to-be-true investments. You are at the cusp of becoming an attending
physician and will be a prime target for banks, lenders, and unscrupulous investors and
individuals. Be prudent with your finances, save wisely, and seek advice from trusted
financial advisors.
5. Make relationships a priority and choose wisely. Humans are wired to need
relationships, which can be our biggest source of happiness or our biggest source of
pain. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Build strong, healthy
relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. These connections will be your anchor
in tough times and your joy in good times.
6. Be a master communicator: The importance of communication skills cannot be
overstated in medicine. Be clear, compassionate, and respectful in your interactions with
patients, families, and colleagues. Kindness, empathy, and a positive attitude can
significantly impact patient outcomes and your professional relationships. A smile and a
listening ear often go a long way.
7. The journey will be challenging, and you might feel like quitting. There will be
moments of doubt and exhaustion. During these times, lean on your solid social network
and remember the bigger picture—why you are doing the work you do. Reflect on your
purpose and passion for medicine. Stay connected to your goals and find joy in the small
victories.
As you step into medicine, remember that you are not just entering a profession but a calling—a
path where compassion, knowledge, and humanity intersect. Embrace each challenge as an
opportunity to grow, and never underestimate the impact of your empathy and expertise. Stay
true to yourself, prioritize your well-being, and nurture relationships that sustain you. Your
journey in medicine will be defined by what you achieve and how you touch lives and make a
difference. Here's to a fulfilling career ahead: your passion fuels your purpose, and your journey inspires others.
コメント