prActIcAl MAtterS Top 5 Things Residents Wish They Had Known About the Match To help graduating medical students prepare for the National Resident Matching Program, residents shared their top five tips on what they wish they had known when they participated in the Match. 1 Go with your gut. “Although pro/con lists or a systematic process might be helpful, you’ll know which programs are the best fits for you,” said Jessica Deslauriers, MD, an internal medicine resident at Yale-New Haven Hospital. 2 Don’t stress out over what you can’t control, but be prepared. “This is a stressful time, but you should take a moment to appreciate this exciting part of your journey to become a physician,” said Christopher Wee, MD, an internal medicine resident at the Cleveland Clinic. At the same time, “you should control the things you can control to avoid a careless mistake,” Dr. Wee said. “That means doublechecking every piece of correspondence by making sure it’s going to the intended recipient and making sure you keep your calendar updated because you often have to respond to interview invitations on short notice.” 3 Apply to your dream programs. “You are likely more qualified and capable than you might imagine,” said Dr. Deslauriers. “If you are offered an interview, the program already thinks you would be a good match for them. Be yourself on interview day, and show them how great you really are!” 4 Anticipate a variety of interview styles. “You can’t predict every situation, but you should prepare for interviews in which you may need to answer a lot of questions, as well as interviews in which you might need to help direct the conversation by asking your own questions,” said. Dr. Wee. 5 Try to relax. “Even if you are convinced that you matched to the last program on your rank list, you will still be an employed doctor next year,” said Dr. Deslauriers. “That’s an honor and privilege that unfortunately not all medical students get.” The Oregon Wellness Program Confidential support and education resources for physicians and physician assistants. The demands of a career in medicine leave little time for physicians and PAs to take care of their most valuable resources: their own physical, emotional and professional wellbeing. Enhancing personal and professional wellness Recognizing the need for confidential, accessible and comprehensive wellness services, the OMA has developed a new, statewide, multifaceted wellness program. Early interventions help clinicians avoid a personal health crisis, while a range of solutions help those currently struggling with personal psychological health or professional issues. Five convenient and confidential wellness offerings • Professional Counseling • Peer-to-Peer Support • Executive Coaching • Litigation Stress Management • Online Resources The voice for better medicine in Oregon Coming Soon! For more information or to get involved, please contact Wellness@theOMA.org or 503-619-8000. Learn more at www.theOMA.org/wellness 28 Medicine in Oregon www.TheOMA.org
OMA Spring 2015 Magazine
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