Advice From the Halfway Point: What I’ve Learned So Far in My IC Fellowship

I blinked twice and poof, the first half of my interventional cardiology fellowship is almost in the rearview mirror. I feel tired yet gratified, and while I’ve learned much, I recognize that I still have a long way to go. Thankfully my friends, seniors, and mentors who’ve already walked this path have passed down to me some pearls of wisdom. These tips have been invaluable as I have navigated the challenges of mastering this fascinating and nuanced skill set, and I’d like to offer them to you as a bit of an end-of-year gesture.

     1. It’s not a competition

While this advice applies broadly in life, it is particularly valuable during the intense early months of fellowship. Different programs offer varying levels of hands-on experience, so comparing yourself to others isn’t just unhelpful, it’s counterproductive. Focus on your own progress. Set goals for the year, break them down into quarters, and watch yourself grow as an interventional cardiologist.

     2. Be meticulous and organized

Shortcuts may seem harmless now but can become costly habits later. Every detail counts, and these habits will benefit all areas of your life. Efficiency is a key goal in most cath labs. Rushing only leads to mistakes and delays. Work carefully and at a steady pace

     3. Help yourself to help others

Long hours wearing lead aprons can lead to pain and injuries. Prioritize self-care: sleep, eat well, hydrate, and exercise when you can. Even the busiest programs in the country should leave time for that. If not, advocate for yourself. Invest in good shoes, well-fitting lead, and knee-high compression stockings—my secret weapon for long cases.

     4. Learn from one other

Your co-fellows are invaluable resources, so make the most of learning from their successes and mistakes. Be there for one another—you’ll need help more often than you might expect. Interventional cardiology is akin to a team sport, so keep your ego aside and be open to learning from everyone in the cath lab. And while venting can be cathartic, be cautious. It’s a slippery slope that can easily distract and demoralize others.

     5. Begin again

Mistakes happen and they are inevitable part of the journey. Feeling guilty, down, or even paralyzed is natural, but don’t dwell in these mindsets as they are ultimately unhelpful. Remember, all of us are going through the same experiences. Be kind to yourself and others. The best course of action is to learn from your mistakes, move on, and begin again. 

I hope your will to reach your potential as an excellent interventional cardiologist continues to energize you throughout this monumental undertaking. As we approach the end of the year, I’m wishing you good luck in what will likely be one of the most memorable times of your life.