When I was in pharmacy school I knew I wanted a profession in oncology and I worked so hard to make sure that would happen. My plan was to do a PGY-1 and PGY-2 specialized in oncology and I was so determined to do so before I started my PGY-1 program. However, little did I know those plans were about to change.
Let me provide some background about myself. I was one of those pharmacy students who was an overachiever in many things. I would spend a majority of my time studying, being involved in professional organizations, working on research, drafting manuscripts for publications, working at my hospital internship and more. My time was so heavily consumed that I barely had time for myself. When I started my fourth year of pharmacy school I chose very rigorous rotations so I could be well prepared for residency, while at the same time working as an intern and developing a manuscript. The application for residency was also a very tiring process, being the perfectionist I am…I had to make sure every thing was to standard in my application and that in itself was a very stressful process as you can imagine.
By the time I graduated I was severely burnt out… but would not acknowledge it.. I had to keep going. After I graduated, I dedicated the next month to studying intensely for my Board exams (NAPLEX & MPJE) so I could get licensed early into my residency. Then residency started.
I always had an idea residency would be difficult before going in, however I don’t believe I understood the full extent of how difficult it would be. Residency is a whole other beast. Dare I say… it may even be harder than a year of pharmacy school. With my program, I only had 5 vacation days and 5 days for professional activities with no sick days. I was required to staff an evening shift every week from 4-9PM and every 3rd weekend. Keep in mind some weekends you have off you aren’t truly off because you may have projects to work on or conferences you are required to attend.
All I can say is I WAS TIRED. Mind you, after I graduated I was burnt out and did not have a break, I went straight into studying and into residency. 6 months into residency I knew I could not go through another year of this because it was affecting me in a negative manner. I struggled to take care of myself and get good sleep. I cant even count anymore the numerous number of times I slept while driving on the way home. It was dangerous.
I finally decided that it was time to put me first and I would not pursue a PGY-2. I’ve heard of many people going into oncology without a PGY-2 and I was hoping that could possibly be me. 6 months into my residency I decided to reach out to contacts I made in the oncology field when I was a student, for any job opportunities in oncology. I am grateful to say that I received a couple interviews, 2 offers and finally accepted a position, my dream position as an ambulatory oncology pharmacist.
It is exciting to know that I can finally put myself first and enter a career I am super passionate about. Don’t get me wrong there is a lot you can learn that I may not know doing a PGY-2 with a focus in oncology but I am determined to learn everyday because of my passion for oncology and I am willing to go the extra mile to be knowledgeable for my patients.
Also for some people doing a PGY-2 may not be the best move for them financially, especially if you do not have a lot of support financially which I didn’t. My main reason for not pursuing a PGY-2 was more so for my wellbeing both mentally and physically, however there is also a small financial component to it as well. I have a lot of personal responsibilities and the financial burden of going through another year of residency would have been super tough.
Honestly I have the utmost respect for everyone who is doing or has done a PGY-2, you guys are all superstars. But personally for me I could not do it.
Ms Rx Geek
Thank you so much for your insight on your thoughts to pursue a PGY2. I just graduated in May, take the NAPLEX in two days (yikes), and start a PGY1 residency program in ambulatory care in July. I know residency is going to be a busy year, and I feel a little overwhelmed, but am also super excited to make a strong impact at the site I will be practicing. However, the question for pursuing a PGY2 has already come up, and honestly, I have been ambivalent with this thought. I feel like I am ready to pursue other adventures in life after one year of residency and to work full time. Thank you so much for this post, because it really reassures me that it is still possible to look for work after a PGY1 and it is okay not to pursue a PGY2. 🙂 Best of luck at your new position and congratulations on completing your residency! 🙂
Thank you so much and good luck in your residency!