How Can I Be The Best Resident That I Can Be?

There’s so much pressure to impress in the first few weeks of residency. You want to be quick with the orders, confident on rounds, and somehow already know the right antibiotic for every infection. But what if the most impressive thing about you isn't how much you know? What if it's how you show up?

That’s what I’ve been holding onto as I start intern year: I’m not going to get everything right (or most things), but I can decide to be someone people trust, enjoy working with, and remember for the right reasons.

Someone I really admire gave me advice that I’ve been carrying into every single shift: “Every time you step into a room, you’re making an impact. Whether you mean to or not. You can be remembered as the person who was kind, who tried their best, and who made others feel seen. Or you can be remembered as someone distant, rushed, or who didn’t seem like they wanted to be there.”

That stuck with me. Even on the days I feel completely behind or overwhelmed, I still get to choose the kind of energy I bring into a space.

I’m trying to give myself grace, because there’s SO much that I don’t know yet. But I do know this: kindness, humility, and enthusiasm go a long way. Even when I’m tired, it’s worth the extra effort to be someone who’s remembered for their warmth, reliability, and positive presence.

There are small habits I’m leaning on. Being early, offering help before it’s asked for, checking in with my co-interns, and thanking everyone from nurses to attendings. I’ve learned how important it is to support my senior residents. If there’s a way to make their life easier, I take it. You never lose by building someone else up.

This year isn’t about proving I’m perfect. It’s about proving that I care. That I’m learning. That I’m someone who can be counted on, even when I don’t have all the answers.

So, to the other new interns like me: let your character lead the way. Be kind. Be curious. Be consistent. You’ll never regret showing up with intention. Even if you’re still figuring everything else out.

And if you ever start to question if you’re doing enough, remember this: studying medicine will teach you science, but who you are in the room is entirely up to you. Let your heart and your character be your legacy.