We’ve had new MS3s start their rotations! While I’m finishing my last rotation, I’ve had the opportunity to work with several new MS3s! It’s crazy to think that I was in the same boat nearly a year ago! I remember feeling clueless. I really had no idea on the proper way to write notes. I didn’t know what information was relevant and I didn’t know the proper questions to ask patients in the context of the service I was on. Not only that, I barely knew how to get around the hospital (to be honest, there are times where I still forget where I’m going!)
Upon reflecting, it’s crazy how much you learn and progress during third-year. I now (more or less) understand what information is relevant and how to present it to attendings. I understand hospital resources and am able to coordinate tasks between services or request medical records. I have now mastered the art of FAXING! It’s kind of funny but I definitely see why it can be frustrating to attendings and residents to listen to new 3rd years present. It can certainly be all over the place! I think that it’s imperative that 3rd years have appropriate guidance and mentoring. Though it can be helpful to learn by failure, it’s also tremendously helpful to have someone sit down and tell you exactly what they expect.
I’ve tried to be the middle man of sorts to the new third years and to the attendings/residents. Though I’m no pro, I feel that I can point the new MS3s in the right direction! They are a great group and I’ve enjoyed working with them.
