I originally came to Boston for undergrad, never imagining that 11 years later, this city would still be my home. Over the years, Boston has woven itself into the fabric of my life. Each chapter of my journey, filled with new experiences, challenges, and connections, has deepened my attachment to this city. The MGH/McLean Psychiatry Residency Program has been no exception. It has provided not just a rigorous place to train but also a vibrant, supportive community that has become an integral part of my Boston story.
One of the most memorable aspects of my time as a resident has been the camaraderie that defines this program. During our intern year, Blake 11 pods (consisting of 4 interns working together on the inpatient psychiatry unit at MGH) quickly became a source of support and friendship for residents. The Blake 11 workroom has a unique charm. There were definitely moments when it felt a *bit* chaotic, with multiple pagers going off at the same time and everyone managing their own small crises. But amidst the busyness, there was a shared sense of accomplishment in the small wins, like mastering the workflow of an admission or discovering a new dot phrase or tab in Epic. What really stood out was the special sense that we were all in this together. My pod embraced these moments, starting a tradition of Friday post-work drinks. It was our way of unwinding–sharing laughs, swapping stories, and just decompressing after a long week.
The friendships and sense of community that started in the Blake 11 workroom extended far beyond it. I feel lucky to have made such strong friendships with my co-residents. This sense of community has made even the toughest days feel manageable.
From the very start of intern year, I’ve felt encouraged to contribute, learn, and grow alongside others who are equally dedicated and compassionate. The learning environment at MGH/McLean is both dynamic and supportive, creating a strong sense of collaboration. Faculty are genuinely invested in teaching, and every interaction provides learning, whether in team meetings, supervision sessions, or casual hallway conversations.
Looking ahead, I am excited to continue growing within this exceptional community. The future will undoubtedly bring new challenges and opportunities, and I am eager to meet them alongside coresidents that feel like family in a city that I now call home.
Return to Resident Perspectives