Psychiatry Residency
As an international medical graduate navigating a foreign landscape, finding a place that feels like home is essential, especially when family is far away. During the match season, I went through several interviews, but none made me feel as welcome as Carilion did. I genuinely enjoyed chatting with everyone involved in the process. It's true what they say – it's the people that make the program great. We've got fantastic attendings who are great teachers. Our program director, Dr. Greenage, is easy to talk to, and I've never hesitated to reach out to him or any of the other attendings when I needed help. Residents are immersed in a rich tapestry of rotations, each fostering expertise in a distinct facet of mental health. From the fast-paced realm of Emergency Psychiatry to the collaborative world of Consult-Liaison Psychiatry, residents navigate the complexities of addiction, delve into the unique needs of geriatric patients, and even explore the cutting-edge field of Interventional Psychiatry. The residents here are like family, always ready to support each other. Huge shoutout to Melissa and Amanda, our program coordinators, for taking care of us all. One thing I really appreciate about our program is the flexible vacation schedule – no need to plan everything a year in advance. And having an airport nearby with decent flight options is a plus. I didn't know much about Roanoke before, but now I'm happy to call it home.
I am incredibly grateful for my experience at the Psychiatry residency program at Carilion Clinic. Throughout my time there, I received unparalleled support, mentorship, and opportunities for growth. The faculty members were not only experts in their fields but also dedicated mentors who invested in my education and professional development. The program's emphasis on hands-on learning, research, and compassionate patient care equipped me with the skills and confidence to excel in my career. I am proud to have been a part of such a dynamic and supportive community, and I will carry the lessons and experiences with me throughout my career.
When I was researching different psychiatry residency programs, I was hoping to find a program that offered strong clinical training, a supportive program culture, and a vibrant location. VTC offers excellent clinical training with a variety of electives and numerous clinical sites including a level 1 trauma center, a VA hospital, and a state hospital. The program has approachable faculty and supportive co-residents. Roanoke offers a superb quality of life with beautiful mountain scenery and fantastic outdoor opportunities. The city is affordable, friendly, and has many things to do including museums and minor league sports as well as electric VT football games in nearby Blacksburg.