I can’t tell you how many times I get asked about this… There is little information out there about dermatology residency programs and rotations in general. Most of what I learned was via word of mouth. To help ease the stress of rotating at programs, here are some tips of things to do and not to do while auditioning. A lot of these may seem like common sense, but you would be surprised!
Tips for what TO DO:
-Arrive early. I know that you are exhausted from all of the traveling, but I promise, it is worth getting up early for this! Sometimes being late is unavoidable, but it is best to avoid this issue all together. Leaving a few extra minutes early will reduce stress in the morning and ensure that you arrive on time. I used to grab coffee nearby or read in my car as a way to pass time before starting work if I arrived early. Make sure you check traffic on Waze the night before so you know where you are going/how long it will take to get there.
-Bring a book to look at in downtime. It will show that you are actively trying to learn dermatology and better yourself.
-Take notes to show that you are interested. Try to read up on any interesting cases that you see each day. You never know if that disease will come up again on your rotation!
-Dress professionally. Wear closed toe shoes and don’t wear anything too revealing. This seems like common sense, but it’s better to be professional. If you are questioning wearing a specific item, it’s probably best to hold off. Avoid wearing scrubs unless specifically told to do so. Also, make sure to bring a white coat!
-Limit time on your phone. I know that a lot of us have dermatology books or apps on our phone that we use to study. Unfortunately, even if you are reading on your phone, attendings don’t always know that and may think you are on Instagram, etc. Study from a book instead so there isn’t any confusion!
-Most importantly, BE YOURSELF. Most residents want to get to know you to see if you will be a good fit for the program!
Tips for what NOT to do:
-Do not interrupt attendings or residents while in patient rooms.
-Do not sit down in patient rooms unless someone tells you specifically to do so. We all know that achy feeling in your legs when you’ve been standing all day. It can be really tough and exhausting, but try to hold on!
-Hold your questions until there is downtime. It can be overwhelming as a resident trying to answer a ton of questions when several patients are waiting to be seen. I definitely encourage asking questions though! It shows you are interested in dermatology and in the program!
I hope you guys find this helpful! If you have any other tips, feel free to comment below!
Congrats to everyone who just matched!
XOXO,
Gabriella
