10 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Entered Residency

1. The emotional roller coaster is real

Residency isn’t just a professional transition; it's an emotional one too. There are days filled with pride and confidence and others full of doubt and exhaustion. You might feel on top of the world after a strong clinical intervention, and the next day feel like you forgot everything. That emotional ebb and flow is normal. Allow yourself to be along for the ride, and know it often means you’re pushing your limits and growing.

2. The way you time manage is probably similar but will change along with you

You might think you have time management figured out after pharmacy school...but residency demands a new level of prioritization. That doesn’t necessarily mean you had terrible time management before though. The same systems you used before might work still but expect them to evolve. You’ll learn to juggle patient care, presentations, projects, readings, staffing, and life outside the hospital...10x what you were able to manage in school. Don’t be surprised if your approach must shift several times in those first few months.

3. Feedback isn’t personal, it’s growth fuel

Early on, feedback can feel harsh. When a preceptor corrects your note or challenges your recommendations, it can be uncomfortable and you can lose your confidence a little. But remember, feedback isn’t about who you are; it’s about who you’re becoming. Treat every piece of constructive criticism as data to improve, and over time you’ll start craving it because it accelerates your growth. Believe that everyone around you has their best interest in your clinical training and is one of your biggest assets.

4. Your preceptors are people too

In your eyes, preceptors are often smart, confident, and incredibly busy; but they’re also human. They’ve had rough days, remember being a resident, and many genuinely want you to succeed. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, share your goals, and let them know when you’re unsure. Connection fosters better teaching and better learning on both ends.

5. Imposter syndrome will knock, don’t let it move in

There will be many moments where you will think you don’t belong or feel like you don’t know what you’re doing. Nearly all of us experience it, and the trick isn’t to banish it. It’s to acknowledge it and carry on anyway, even seasoned pharmacists can feel it, and it’s a sign of life-long learning. Remind yourself of all your accomplishments so far and how you got to where you are, you’re there for a reason and just remember, the opportunity wouldn’t have presented itself if you weren’t ready for it.

6. Networking starts on day one

Pharmacy is a small world. The people you meet during residency like preceptors, coresidents, other pharmacists, nurses, providers, etc. might be the same people you’ll run into later in your career. Be kind, curious, and memorable. These connections matter.