Tips to Excel in Neurosurgery Residency
Written by Raj Swaroop Lavadi, M.B.B.S., D. Kojo Hamilton, M.D., Nitin Agarwal, M.D.
Match day marks the transition from student to trainee. Exhilaration tempered by trepidation is inevitable with the responsibilities of residency right around the corner.
Nevertheless, neurosurgery is not just a vocation, but a way of life. As the popular adage by Confucius goes, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life”.
Below are five tips to flatten the learning curve ahead:
1. Integrity
A firm adherence to a dogma of discipline, honesty, and righteousness is essential throughout residency. To err is human. Still, maintaining a steadfast virtuous character is a true sign of strength. Such experiences will not only mold you into a better resident, but also a better physician going forward.
2. Grit
Imagine a wheel rolling down a steep hill. That is the simplest analogy to describe neurosurgery residency, because once it starts, it never stops. You need to be tenacious and resilient if you are going to survive. These traits will serve you well, especially during those long call hours. Similar to the themes observed in “A Message to Garcia”, you should keep your head down, always be ready to face the challenge, and do what is needed. You will no doubt have a tough road ahead, but never forget—Pressure makes diamonds.
3. Mentorship
"No one, no matter how noble/virtuous, can know, without the presence of a Guru." This is a translation from an 18th-century composition by Carnatic music composer, Saint Thyagaraja. Don't forget the ones who have guided you to this coveted spot in this prestigious specialty. We are truly standing on the shoulders of giants. Never forget your medical school mentors, for they have vouched for you in ways that you cannot imagine. Find a mentor, and more importantly a sponsor, who will support you throughout residency. Make sure you are equally, if not more interested in the mentor-mentee relationship as bidirectional interest and engagement are paramount. The right sponsor does not sugar coat anything, answers all your questions, introduces you to other leaders, and keeps your best interests a priority.
4. Availability, Affability, and AbilityAccountability
Always be available and never duck responsibility. In fact, be the duck – cool and calm on the surface. Be affable with your co-residents and colleagues. However, paddle underneath like there is no tomorrow. Beyond ability, you should be accountable for your duties. These three qualities that got you to Match day, will also help you with what comes after.
5. Balance
The demands of residency are so high and complex, that you must be prepared for your work to pour over into personal time. You may not be able to see your loved ones or have meaningful interactions for days due to hectic call schedules. This may potentially strain relationships. Though alone time to reflect is important, you should also be closely involved with family as much as possible. As the luminary, Zig Zaglar mentioned, “Your family and friends are priceless, your time is gold, and your health is wealth”.
For more tips and advice, check out Surviving Neurosurgery: Vignettes of Resilience and Neurosurgery Fundamentals.
Congratulations and best of luck for the journey ahead.
