Embracing the Journey: My First Two Months in Residency

Reflecting on My Experience in Family Medicine

It’s hard to believe that I’m already two months into residency. Time has flown by, and I’ve had the opportunity to immerse myself in my family medicine clinic. This experience has taught me what it truly means to transition from being a medical student to becoming a resident physician.

A Journey of Firsts

There have been many “firsts” during these past two months. I’ve written prescriptions with my own name attached to them. I’ve begun to build my own approach to appointments. I’m learning how to manage uncertainty instead of feeling the pressure to know everything immediately. Following up on investigations I ordered and seeing patients return after we created a plan together has been incredibly rewarding.

One of my favourite parts has been starting to understand the continuity that drew me to family medicine in the first place. In this field, you don’t just meet someone for a single moment in their healthcare journey. You get to witness what happens next, and that connection is invaluable.

Medicine Beyond the Textbook

I’m also realizing how much medicine happens outside of the textbook. Sometimes, the most important part of an appointment isn’t the diagnosis. Instead, it’s about understanding what is happening in someone’s life, what matters to them, and whether the plan we create is realistic for their unique circumstances. This perspective is essential for providing holistic care.

Transitioning to New Rotations

Now, as my schedule changes, I’m moving into more off-service rotations. I feel a little sad knowing that I’ll only be back in my family medicine clinic once every two weeks. In such a short time, it has already started to feel like home: the people, the rhythm, and the patients I’m beginning to know.

Next up is Obstetrics & Gynecology, and I’m genuinely excited about this rotation. There’s something a little full-circle about it. OBGYN was my very first clerkship rotation in medical school. I remember walking into it with so much to learn, trying to grasp everything from prenatal care to labour and delivery, while also figuring out how to simply be a clerk.

Returning with New Insights

Now, I get to walk back into that environment as a resident. I certainly don’t know everything, and residency has already made that clear at times. However, I’m entering this rotation with a completely different foundation than I had the first time. I understand medicine differently now. I feel more comfortable talking with patients, developing a differential diagnosis, making decisions, and recognizing when I need help.

I’m excited to see how different OBGYN feels this time around. The growth I’ve experienced in just two months is remarkable.

The Ongoing Journey of Becoming a Physician

These first two months have reminded me that becoming a physician doesn’t happen at graduation. There wasn’t a magical moment when I suddenly felt like I knew enough. It’s happening slowly: one clinic, one patient, one question, one teaching moment, and one small moment of confidence at a time.

As I reflect on this journey, I realize that each experience is a building block. The lessons learned, the connections made, and the challenges faced are all part of a larger narrative.

Looking Ahead

Two months down, many more rotations to go. While I’m sad to leave my family medicine clinic as my everyday home for now, I’m excited to keep learning. I know I’ll keep coming back to it along the way.

In this journey, I encourage you to embrace each moment. Whether you’re a student, a healthcare learner, or a professional, remember that every step you take is part of your growth.

With love,

Chyna 🌿

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