Maximizing Time Off: My Path to Surgical Residency Preparedness

29 Jan 2025

By Dr. Niosha Price

As an International Medical Graduate (IMG) with aspirations of joining a general surgery residency, I have structured my time off to maximize personal growth, professional development, and well-being. This period between completing medical school in November and starting residency in July is a unique opportunity to prepare myself for the demanding yet rewarding path ahead. 

One of the activities that has brought balance and joy to my life is swimming. To combine this passion with meaningful work, I became a certified lifeguard at an indoor pool near my home. This role keeps me physically fit, generates income, and allows me to contribute to my community by ensuring the safety of others. Staying in shape is especially important for a surgical residency, where long hours and physical stamina are often required. Additionally, working as a lifeguard has strengthened my ability to remain calm under pressure–a skill that is invaluable in the operating room. 

 

In line with my career goals, I also took on a part-time role as a medical scribe at the John Hopkins Orthopedic Surgery Center. This position has been instrumental in keeping me clinically engaged and sharpening my documentation skills. It provides first hand exposure to surgical workflows, patient interactions, and the intricacies of orthopedic procedures. As a medical graduate pursuing general surgery, this experience is enriching my understanding of surgical care and preparing me to excel in residency. 

 

While professional development is important, I am cherishing moments with family and friends as well. These relationships provide the emotional resilience needed to thrive in the high-pressure environment of a surgical residency. Celebrating my medical school completion with a trip to Dubai is another way I am recharging my mind before embarking on the next chapter of my career. 

 

This period also involves essential administrative tasks related to residency applications. I am actively participating in interviews, crafting thoughtful thank-you letters, and carefully creating my rank list. These steps are critical in securing a program that aligns with my professional aspirations and personal values. My dedication to thorough preparation reflects my commitment to excelling as a future surgical resident. 

 

Ultimately, these seven months are about maintaining a balance between preparation and rejuvenation. By engaging in activities I love, such as swimming and spending time with loved ones, while also gaining valuable clinical exposure as a medical scribe, I am equipping myself for the challenges ahead. This holistic approach ensures that I will enter residency not only well-prepared academically and professionally but also physically and emotionally resilient. These experiences reinforce my passion for surgery and my readiness to contribute meaningfully to a residency program.

 

Dr. Niosha Price headshot

About the Author: Dr. Niosha Price

Dr. Niosha Price, is a recent medical graduate of Ross University School of Medicine. She was born and raised in Plaquemine, LA, and earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Biology from Grambling State University. After joining the US Army, she worked for the Public Health Command of Europe as an Environmental Specialist. During her time in Germany, she completed a Master’s in Environmental Policy from Kaplan University. Her multifaceted background inspired her to pursue medicine, and she is now applying for the General Surgery Match 2025. Outside of medicine, Dr. Price enjoys spending time with family and friends, going to concerts, and traveling.

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