Match Day, 2012. Opening that envelope revealed I would be doing my Internal Medicine – Pediatrics residency training at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. Although I had no specific ties to Columbus, I was ecstatic that I would be training at an amazing program and excited for new experiences.
Over the next four years, I learned a lot. I learned how to really be a doctor and what that meant. I worked long hours. There were times that were emotionally draining. I made mistakes and learned from them. I learned how to be resilient and learned a lot about myself. Throughout all this, the supportive environment, friendships, and mentors at OSU were key.
I also found a lot of fun things to do in Columbus. There are lots of summer festivals for whatever your interests are, concerts that come through, lots of great neighborhoods with great food, trails for walking/running/biking. This may sound silly, but I also love how well laid out the freeway system and city are laid out – you can get pretty much anywhere in about 20 minutes. The airport is also very accessible, so it’s easy to travel to other places.
As I was finishing residency, I decided that I wanted to be a hospitalist. I also wanted to continue taking care of both adult and pediatric patients and to continue to work with learners. I interviewed at a few different places, but ultimately, staying at OSU/NCH was the right choice for me. Not only was I able to do all the things I wanted to do, but there is so much support and opportunity for growth, development and mentorship here. There is the opportunity to make connections and collaborate with others and make your career whatever you want it to be.
Written by Sharon Clark, MD, Clinical Associate Professor, Hospitalist, Internal Medicine-Pediatrics.