The EXTERNSHIP

I'd like to start by apologizing to my few dedicated readers, between my board exams in July and 4 hectic weeks of an externship I've barely had time to keep up with my health, much less things like updating blogs. I had planned on more detailed accounts of my recent experiences, but given how busy I've been it'll have to be a brief overview.

As a 4th year, you get the opportunity to practice being an intern for a month-long rotation (sometimes referred to as externship, sub-internship or acting internship). I lucked out in terms of my team. In general I had an amazing group of residents, attendings and 3rd year med students, which resulted in a very fulfilling and rewarding month. I was worried that a bad rotation would lead me to question my career choice. 

But it was pretty awesome. Other than the hours (of course I NEVER broke hour limits, 80 hours/week..), it was a whirlwind of fascinating patients, decision-making freedom and responsibility I didn't expect for another year. 

I was allowed to, for the most part, make my own plans for patient care, with only a few suggestions and reminders here or there.

So, by far, my externship (in internal medicine, the most dreaded of externships!) was the best rotation I had so far. Now that I've moved on to my next rotation, I am filled with nostalgia when I see my old team rounding together on the wards without me, but like in any other career it's best to quit and move on during a "winning streak" (ok I didn't have a choice and I was exhausted, really). But I don't actually miss many rotations- and I really miss that one already. 

So my advice for your externship?
-Pour your heart into it, because if you don't care, you probably shouldn't be going into that specialty. 

-Just do the time. It's long hours but people see you there and know that at the least, you're dedicated. (On multiple occasions residents on other teams said I should go home, because I worked too much.)

-Go out of your comfort zone: I knew going into the rotation that I didn't feel comfortable placing orders or calling consults. I pushed myself (it took 2 weeks though!), but now I feel like those are both old hat. Two fewer things to worry about as an intern.

-Lend a hand: help a resident with an admission, let a 3rd year med student in on a few secrets ("attendings don't care about the chloride level" or "don't give a history in the subjective part of your note"). You feel better AND reap the benefits later (residents and other students often return the favors).

-Be an enthusiastic learner! Just because you aren't getting pimped as much doesn't mean you should shut the books (or close google, to be realistic). 

Anyway, glad it's over. On to bigger and better things!