Resident Life

We have 13 wonderful residents in each class.  They come from 24 medical schools, all with different backgrounds, but work beautifully together as a team. Our small size fosters close ties both in and out of the hospital.

 

Class Advisor Meetings:

Each class of 13 residents meets monthly with their classmates and class advisors over lunch.  These sessions allow the residents direct contact to both a general pediatrician and a sub-specialist hand-picked to provide advice and support throughout their three years at Wake Forest.  Should a resident desire a one-on-one mentor, these advisors, or the program staff will help foster such a relationship.

Class Retreats:

In the spring, each class of residents gets a day when their other obligations are covered in the hospitals and clinics so that they can spend the day with their peers.  The first year retreat is spent getting to know your classmates and planning for your individualized goals.  The second year, the time is spent thinking towards future careers with a guest panel and discussions about the next steps.  During the last few months, the third years get a day to spend together, enjoying each other’s company and giving the program staff ideas for future residents.  Each of these retreats takes place in a relaxed setting away from the hospital.

Group Gatherings:

Each year, all of our residents and faculty are invited to several social events.  This includes a cook-out at Tanglewood Park in late June to send off our recent Graduates and welcome the incoming Interns.  There is a Holiday party annually where pediatric faculty and housestaff gather to celebrate the festive times.  In the spring we have an annual match party to celebrate the announcement of the next class to join our ranks.

In addition, the residents spend a good deal of time together outside the hospital enjoying common interests:  from marathon runners to musicians there are many groups to enjoy.  In the spring a committee of residents gather to “roast” the outgoing senior residents at a good-hearted evening of dinner and skits toasting the soon-to-graduate.  Shortly thereafter, our department honors the residents who have successfully completed their three years of training with a graduation ceremony and dinner with their family, friends and faculty.