The pivotal time has come for the School of Engineering Medicine’s M2 students to take part in what some say to be one of the most important parts in the journey to becoming a medical doctor. M2 students have officially begun the transition to clerkship.
This experience prepares students for a residency training program and real-life medical situations. It’s a time for EnMed students at the School of Engineering Medicine and medical students everywhere to finally use their knowledge and apply it to real practice. This month, that journey began for EnMed M2 students as they dove into their transition.
Although this hands-on experience is an exciting time, it comes with anxious feelings for some, and can be stressful for others. Some students may be unaware of the uncertainty that comes with starting something new, while others grab it by the reins. M2 student Elizabeth Bixler expressed her enthusiasm for this exciting time and her eagerness to move forward. “We’ve done pretty much 100 percent of our learning in the classroom, thus far. So, I’m really excited to learn medicine in a different way and get the chance to apply my knowledge,” Bixler said. After her classroom learning experience in the EnMed program, she feels well prepared. “I’m excited to interact with patients and learn from residents who are excited about teaching. I love learning on my feet and using my hands, so I’m excited for the new environment,” Bixler said.
With the impact the school’s trusted professors have on students, their sense of support has made this transition go more smoothly. The nerves and jitters come to a halt as the time to study even harder and finally practice medicine begins. Their emotions are further put to ease with some advice from M3 students as they reflect on what they wish they knew and the best advice to offer their fellow students as former M2s.
Some recalled that advice came from many people and different places, not just medical staff. M3 student Cailin O’Connell recounted a time when a patient had a significant impact on her clerkship. “As a patient used to say to me, ‘Attitude, attitude, attitude, kid!’ You don’t have to be the most book smart or technically skilled to succeed in clerkships, but a winning attitude will take you far. Take a genuine interest in the specialty you’re rotating with and try to learn something from everyone you work with – from the physicians to the nursing staff to the patients. This may be your only chance to see a particular case or surgery,” O’Connell said as she offered her best piece of advice to the M2 students starting.
Thanks to the renowned instructors and doctors who lead the EnMed program, M2 students have the confidence and capabilities to excel in their clerkship. Now, with the extra advice from M3 students like O’Connell, M2 students have the support and encouragement from all the EnMed body to conquer another step in the journey of becoming a physicianeer.
