Program Coordinator Corner – December 2017
Alex Stoller, MPA
Fellowship Program Administrator
University of Washington
AStoller@medicine.washington.edu
Professional Development: Small Commitments and Big Rewards
When I first started my role in graduate medical education, I was inspired by the work and volunteering many of our trainees were able to accomplish during medical school. As our trainees were studying late nights in preparation for residency, they were also volunteering at low income clinics, starting non-profits, or working on leadership projects. Many of these opportunities embodied the skills (public service, leadership, teamwork, professional development) I wanted to build upon in my own career to become a stronger administrator. I started to explore different opportunities which allowed me to develop my professional and leadership skills within my role.
As graduate medical education staff, our own career paths are not always clear. Sometimes, it’s difficult to fit in more projects when you are managing a busy program, supporting your faculty and trainees, and making time for your own lives. Taking on more can feel overwhelming; however, here are some opportunities which require a relatively small commitment and can help provide big rewards in your career:
• Join a New Project In-House: Many hospitals and graduate medical education programs are looking for staff volunteers to help with new and existing projects. This is also an excellent opportunity to invest in the development of your organization, meet others, and learn more about what is happening in your work environment. Ask your program director, administrator, or graduate medical education office about opportunities which may be a good fit for you.
• Network! Network! Network! Too often, we get stuck on our own fellowship desert islands, but don’t forget to build your own personal network. Reach out and meet other program coordinators and graduate medical staff in your geographical area, network through annual meetings such as the annual ACGME or AAIM meetings, or start a local “coffee break” or “happy hour” event.
• Volunteer: Volunteer your time at a non-profit organization, church, or local school. Join a board, become an officer of an organization, or lead a project within a new organization. Giving time to an organization can build your network and provide leadership opportunities in the future.
• Participate on a Public Commission or Board: Several years ago, I joined a monthly public transit board for my area. Although this was outside my knowledge base of medicine, it was a great opportunity to network with other public administrators (including meeting those who worked in local hospitals) in the area. Participation on a community or public board can develop your interpersonal and intrapersonal skills. Check out your local county or city listings for local opportunities.
There are many other opportunities you can also pursue in your career including pursuing C-TACGME certification, completing a graduate degree, or presenting at a national meeting. Each opportunity will take a different time commitment, so be sure to consider an opportunity that is right for you. Participation in different projects, networking, and volunteering can not only build your own curriculum vitae, it can also provide a strong foundation as you grow in a graduate medical education career.