Patricia Nguyen, DO

Why UNM is My Choice for Residency: Despite initially wanting to live closer to home, I ranked UNM as my #1 because it just felt right. I learn and perform best when I feel well supported, so I specifically found programs that were known for having a inclusive and inviting culture. It also helped that alumni from my med school often became residents here. When I completed a Sub-I during my 4th year, I immediately felt welcomed as part of the team. Everyone was so warm here - from the specialists to the custodians. From day one on this campus, I felt valued and respected even as a medical student. That's why UNM's the best choice for me!

Favorite Things About UNM: I think bullet points will be easiest to recap why I love UNM Peds:

• Approachable seniors who actively check in on me, even when I'm not rotating with them
• TigerConnect, a secure chat platform that has eliminated a pager-dependent system. This tool has streamlined patient care and has given me more agency as a resident. I now feel more comfortable connecting with social workers, specialists, clinic team coordinators, etc. TigerConnect has allowed me to provide more holistic, comprehensive care and taught me how to communicate as both a learner and a leader.
• On wards, only the seniors stay behind to sign out to the next team. This custom helps protect interns and gets them out of work at a reasonable time. There's also an excellent iPASS handoff practice with information read-back that is actively implemented here.
• Protected "Resident School" and didactics, with an emphasis on team building and interactive activities like BATCAVE, our simulation lab.
• Color-coded scrubs that distinguish members throughout the hospital. The color coordination really helps with role recognition and allows for better patient care.
• Each Peds floor has a unique theme (pirate, airplane, circus), and it keeps the vibe fun. I also love driving by every day to work and seeing the Child Life Pete's Playground on the rooftop.
• The views from the Tully work room are spectacular. You can see the hot air balloons!
• Like-minded interns who also like to host gatherings such as things like "Bachelorette Tuesdays" or "Hocus Pocus Paint Night"
• I feel supported and appreciated as part of the UNM Peds team.

Favorite Things About NM: NM? It's a hidden gem. Nobody ever would've guessed that I'd end up in the land of Breaking Bad, but there are lots of characteristics that remind me of my home in Portland: breweries, beautiful fall weather, a large Vietnamese population, and a variety of cuisines to try. (I'm happy to share my google list for eateries upon request!) A big plus is the affordable cost of living and proximity of available housing 5-15 minutes from the hospital. I also love that we get to serve such a diverse population and learn about different cultures.