This year I found a new family at Duke Family Medicine and I am so thankful. It was one of the most difficult years of my life, both personally and professionally, and everyone here has been incredibly supportive.
This past year, my intern year in the Duke Family Medicine Residency Program, I experienced great losses while simultaneously experiencing the joys, trials and tribulations of being a first-time mother (which is an internship in its own right), and likewise the excitement and stress of being a new doctor.
Having completed two “internships” at once, I have some advice to give the new interns who are about a quarter of the way through their first year.
My advice to the interns is similar to what I give most of my patients:
- Get some sleep: This is something I did well while pregnant but seem to have forgotten how to do as my intern year progressed (it may have something to do with having a baby at home, too!). I believe we tell our patients to get eight hours of sleep per night. I know realistically that will be impossible at times, but anytime you have the choice, prioritize sleep. It will make you happier and you will be more productive the next day.
- Eat well: Don’t skip meals and try to eat healthy. As we all know, this is good for your mind and body.
- Listen to the people who have done this before you, but try to have your own opinion. And be bold enough to share that opinion. You will never be wrong if you don’t speak up but you will never be right either. You need to be right enough to build confidence and wrong enough to build humility.
- Exercise: It’s good for your mind as well as your body.
- Get organized: Plan your schedule and keep lists so you don’t forget anything.
- Find a friend to help motivate you in the difficult times. My colleagues here at Duke Family Medicine have done so much to support me, from texting me inspirational messages, to volunteering to house sit/babysit, hold the pager, listen when I needed an ear and give advice when I needed to learn ways to improve my skills. I have been so fortunate.
I am still trying to listen to my own advice and utilize it to become, in Dr. Donna Tuccero’s words, “The best ‘doctor mom’ I can be.”
To the attendings, senior residents, nurses, MAs and support staff, I just wanted to thank everyone for their support. I know that I wouldn’t have survived this year without it!
Tiffany Covas is a second-year resident with the Duke Family Medicine Residency Program. Email tiffany.covas@dm.duke.edu with questions.
Editor’s note: Duke Family Medicine residents guest blog every month.