From Med School to Internship: 5 Tips for a Strong Start

Stepping into my medical internship, I was eager but wildly unprepared for the rollercoaster ahead. As a freshly graduated med student, I thought I had all the tools I needed. But from navigating relentless shifts to facing life-or-death situations, it didn’t take long to realize that there’s no textbook for the exhaustion, adrenaline, or steep learning curve that defines these two years.

Looking back, I see just how many mistakes could have been avoided with some inside knowledge—the kind you can only get from someone who’s been through it. From simple habits that make your day-to-day smoother to insights on managing the emotional toll, this guide covers the most important things I learned the hard way.

For anyone preparing to take this leap, consider this your head start—my tips and hard-won lessons for turning the intensity of your internship into a journey of growth.

Tip #1 - Embrace humility; and ask questions like your life depends on it

One of the biggest mistakes I made early in my internship was thinking that asking too many questions would make me look incompetent. In reality, it was quite the opposite. The more I asked, the more I realized just how much there is to learn in every situation. This curiosity demonstrated respect for my senior colleagues’ expertise and helped build rapport and trust—knowing that I wouldn’t make any decisions without clarification.

Asking questions is essential for understanding what you don’t know, and you’ll often find that your questions lead to deeper understanding than you initially expected. There were countless times I was unsure about a lab result, what medication to prescribe, or how to perform a specific procedure. The temptation to avoid asking questions for fear of looking foolish often loomed large, but those moments taught me a crucial lesson: it’s far better to ask than to guess.

Every time I reached the brink of making a potentially dangerous guess, I felt the weight of humility settle in. Those “obvious questions” not only saved me time but also kept my patients safe. Trust me, this practice will earn you respect and, more importantly, keep you grounded when the stakes are high. So embrace your curiosity—your internship will be a much richer experience for it!

Tip #2 - Build Relationships That Will Support You, Now and Later

Fostering strong relationships with your team—interns, registrars, consultants, and especially nurses—can make all the difference. Your fellow interns will be your go-to for shift swaps when life gets unexpected, support when the workload becomes overwhelming, and hands-on help when you’re struggling with pesky drips or lumbar punctures.

Registrars can become trusted mentors. You’ll find that they are often more willing to share their knowledge if you take the time to cultivate personal connections with them, which also makes for smoother patient referrals from other departments down the line. Forming connections with consultants may open doors for future career steps, such as postgraduate opportunities.

Most importantly, prioritize a respectful rapport with nurses; they’re perhaps the most valuable relationships you can maintain in your daily work life. Many have years of experience in the hospital and can be incredible resources every day. Building a supportive network will not only make your internship more enjoyable but also significantly enhance your learning experience.

"Medicine is a journey best traveled with mentors. Those who invest in building relationships with senior colleagues often find that mentorship opens doors to learning and career growth they never expected." – Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng, Sexual and Reproductive Health Practitioner and UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health

Tip #3 - Prioritise Your Own Physical and Mental Health

During my internship, I often ignored sleep, meal breaks, and even bathroom breaks, convinced I could “push through.” However, the result was far from ideal—I struggled with concentration, became irritable, and experienced poor sleep quality and low moods. It quickly became clear that taking care of myself was just as important, if not more so, as caring for my patients.

There were nights when my fatigue crept up on me, leading to avoidable mistakes. That’s when I realized the importance of self-care. Make it a priority to hydrate, pack enough healthy food and snacks for your shifts, and actually take your breaks to recharge. Regularly check in with yourself, and if you notice signs of burnout—fatigue, irritability, or emotional detachment—don’t dismiss them. The myths of superhuman resilience are tempting, but they aren’t sustainable. Build a strong support system and reach out for help when you need it. Remember, true resilience is knowing when to pause and take care of yourself.

Tip #4 - Create Your Own Reference System

Every case is different, and even the most seasoned doctors consult references regularly. To enhance my efficiency, I created a digital “cheat sheet” in my notes app, compiling common medications along with their dosages and calculations. I updated this list over time, ensuring it remained relevant. Resources like EMGuidance and the AMBOSS app were invaluable for brushing up on standard treatment guidelines and clinical knowledge, saving me more times than I can count.

I recall one particularly hectic call when having an easily accessible guideline for the status epilepticus protocol allowed me to react far more quickly than if I had tried to remember all the details from memory. Building your own well-organized reference system right from the start helps turn potential “panic” moments into manageable tasks. When you know where to find the information you need, you can focus on providing the best care for your patients.

Tip #5 - Embrace a Growth Mindset

As you embark on your internship journey, it’s crucial to embrace a growth mindset. This means viewing challenges as opportunities for learning rather than obstacles. There will be times when you feel overwhelmed or unsure, but remember that every experienced doctor was once in your shoes. Approach each new situation with curiosity and a willingness to learn from your mistakes.

Reflect on your experiences regularly, seeking feedback from peers and mentors. This not only helps you grow but also fosters a culture of collaboration and support among your colleagues. By recognizing that growth is a continuous process, you’ll cultivate resilience and adaptability—essential qualities for any medical professional. As you move forward, remember that your journey is just beginning. Each day brings new challenges and insights that will shape you into a more skilled and compassionate doctor.

Start Strong - Your Journey Starts Here!

As you transition from medical school to internship, keep in mind that preparation, self-care, strong relationships, and embracing obstacles are essential for success in this challenging yet rewarding journey. I encourage you to take advantage of these tips as you embark on this new chapter in your medical career. If you know any interns about to start their journey next year, please share this post with them!

Share your experiences or additional tips in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!