by Jordan Stewart, DPM
Timonium Foot and Ankle Center
Established July 2006
Timonium, MD

It's funny, lots of people take time off after college and go on some wild trip. When asked why they did it, they commonly respond, �I did some soul-searching.� Well, unfortunately you don't have the time and you probably don't have the funds to go on a wild and adventurous trip, but like it or not you have to do some soul-searching. This soul-searching will provide direction for your job interview process.

Each of our personalities makes us unique. It is your unique personality that will guide you to making a decision on what type of job you would like to take. Some of us are laid-back and don't mind being directed. Others, like me, do not like being directed and need to be in control. Neither of these personalities are better or worse, yet to be happy you need to land a position that does not clash with your personality.

So how do you begin this soul-searching process and what do you do with this information? This is a difficult step, but to make it easier on yourself, let the people closest to you start the process for you. Ask your husband and/or wife, brother and/or sister, mother and/or father, your closest friends, and all the people you have worked with during residency what type of job situation they think you would be comfortable in. Keep a hard shell, don't be offended by any answers, and use this information to start thinking about the type of position you would like to be in.

Your peers that have recently graduated residency are the best source of information. Some of them are associates and others are working for themselves. During your soul-searching, call them, e-mail them, and go to their office and ask them how they landed in the position they are in.

After all this soul-searching, some of you will determine you can work for someone else, some of you will determine that you want to work for yourself, and most of you, like myself, will be extremely confused.

Don't worry, this is only the beginning of the process and none of your decisions are set in stone. We're going to talk your job options and the associated business and personal decisions that factor into the job process. Additionally, the interview process will open your eyes and answer many questions that are lingering in the air right now. So relax, grab a cup of coffee, and start your soul-searching.

This program is supported by an education grant from
Dermik Laboratories.