First Year of Residency: Bagged!

It seems like only yesterday when I wrote my first blog post as a brand new resident doctor. It's crazy to believe that a year of residency has gone by and I'm happy to say that I survived! The past year was definitely not easy and it's safe to say that the first year of residency has been the most difficult and grueling thing I've ever had to undergo.

The past year has led to tremendous personal and professional growth. I am mentally, emotionally, and physically tougher. I find myself no longer stressing over small things. I am now less self-critical and more patient with myself. In such a high paced learning environment, mistakes are inevitable and the ability to learn from the mistakes is extremely vital to survival.

Residency has made me value my relationships on a deeper level. Having the support of family, friends, and my co-residents has been invaluable. I am blessed to be surrounded by people who will listen to me complain about work for hours on end. In the midst of the chaos however, I am proud of the work my co-residents and I do. The sense of confidence that we share after a great day in the operating room is second to none. It is truly a blessing to care for women everyday and it is a privilege I do not take for granted, even if I'm cranky and sleep deprived.