Curious about how to become a chief resident? Look no further!
We tapped our community of physician educators to compile this advice for you. Along with working (and studying!) hard, these current Chiefs and Program Directors share some wise words.
“I would say: Anyone who is interested in being a Chief should seek out as many leadership activities as possible. The goal should be to arise as a leader in your class as soon as you can. Dedicate yourself to helping the program and energizing your class!” -Joann Carlson MD, Program Director of the Pediatrics Residency Program, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Pediatrics Residency Program
"For those interested in being a chief resident, I would say knowing your fellow residents is important. You may not always have the time to be spending time outside of work together, but even time at work spent getting to know each other helps develop those professional relationships. Going forward as a chief resident, you are an advocate for your colleagues, and having those connections is important.
"I would also suggest thinking about your own goals for your chief year. What are the areas you want to work on for self-growth? Are you applying for a fellowship? Do you want to improve your teaching skills? Are there ways you want to help or improve your residency program? Having an intentional plan for what you do with your chief year shows commitment to the program." -Evan Symons, DO, 2021-2022 Med-Peds Chief Resident, University of Nebraska Medical Center
"Here’s my two cents!
Love the program you’re part of, and think of ways you can help improve it, or ways you want to carry on traditions. Be open to change, and be firm in your values
Ask not what your program can do for you, but what you can do for your program :)
Be interested in learning all aspects of your job, not just the medical part. Everyone plays an important role to helping care for our patients
Talk to your current chiefs! Ask them about their work, what they do, etc. Get a feel for what their job is so you know if it’s something you’re interested in!
Realize it’s so much more than just a stepping stone for fellowship or future jobs. You are the resident liaison, and you are there to serve your residents and your program."
-Brittany Chow, Loma Linda University Pediatric Chief Resident
"Regarding chiefdom, I'd advise this: Being a chief resident is a unique and fulfilling opportunity! If you aspire to make a profound impact in the lives of your colleagues, both professionally and personally, strongly consider discussing this career option with your program director soon!" -Marcus Germany, 2021-2022 Peds Chief Resident, Case Western Reserve University (MetroHealth)
If you become a chief resident and are hunting for ways to increase pass rates, keep MedStudy in mind! We're here to help you and your program. Email Marisa Giggey for more info!
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