Resident Life

It is clearly important that one chooses a residency program where he or she can work with extremely knowledgeable, talented, and dedicated faculty. Duke pediatric residents are just as important in the teaching process. They take pride in teaching and learning from each other. Duke School of Medicine students have consistently ranked the pediatrics clerkship as one of the best rotations for teaching, and our Resident As Teacher committee and Resident As Teacher elective help our trainees to develop as outstanding teachers.

Our program is committed to continuous improvement, with open and transparent communication between leadership and residents at its core. Residents have multiple avenues to share ideas, raise concerns, and collaborate on solutions. Quarterly meetings with associate program directors and a chief resident provide a dedicated space for discussion, while weekly email updates from the chiefs highlight announcements and kudos. The program director also sends a monthly roundup to keep everyone informed about program happenings. We host regular town halls where residents and leadership can connect in person to address issues and brainstorm improvements. For those who prefer to share feedback privately, an always-open online suggestion box offers a confidential option. In addition, three rotating resident representatives attend the Pediatric Graduate Medical Education Committee each quarter to ensure the resident perspective is well-represented in program decisions.

A strong sense of camaraderie is at the heart of our residency program. We intentionally seek residents with diverse and interesting backgrounds who work well together and genuinely enjoy each other’s company—because great teamwork thrives in a positive, supportive environment.

From day one, we create opportunities for residents to connect both inside and outside the hospital. Interns kick off the year at our annual welcome party.  Each Friday, interns participate in an intern-only morning report—an energizing mix of clinical case discussion, peer support, and shared experiences.

The winter months bring our highly anticipated department holiday party, and spring is packed with activities, including class-level retreats, senior dinners, our “hello” party for new trainees, and plenty of other events. Our resident-led Wellness Committee keeps the spirit going year-round with creative gatherings such as trivia nights, pumpkin decorating, Valentine’s Day celebrations, and more. No matter the season, there’s always something bringing our residents together to laugh, recharge, and strengthen the bonds that make our community so special.

Winter months are highlighted by the annual department holiday party. The springtime is packed with activities: retreats for each program level to reflect on the past year and think about the future, senior dinners, a hello party, and more . . . anything that can be done for a little R&R! The resident-led Wellness Committee also sponsors events to encourage community building such as resident trivia, pumpkin decorating, Valentine’s Day party, and more throughout the year.

Unfortunately, physical distancing guidelines have precluded much of these activities during the summer and fall of 2020. In the meantime, we have gotten to know each other over Zoom, Instagram, in small groups outdoors at one of Durham’s many local parks and trails or outdoor restaurants, and by sharing our favorite spots around town with a fun Google doc the residents have been building and sharing.

Pediatric residency at Duke is an exciting, challenging, and deeply rewarding journey—one filled with meaningful patient care, lifelong learning, and strong professional relationships. These formative years are enriched even further by the opportunities residents have to enjoy life beyond the hospital.

Life outside the hospital is one of the many perks of training here. Residents have wonderfully fulfilling lives beyond work. Many residents buy homes or townhomes, with local banks offering great incentives for residents. They often socialize together outside of work, taking advantage of all the Triangle has to offer including dancing, dining out, shopping, catching a movie or theater performance, and exploring museums and art galleries. Outdoor adventures are always close at hand, with opportunities for biking, hiking, kayaking, and enjoying the area’s parks and greenways.

Durham itself is a vibrant city with a rich blend of old and new—dynamic neighborhoods, thriving local businesses, and a welcoming, community-minded spirit. As part of the Research Triangle, residents also have easy access to Chapel Hill and Raleigh, each with its own culture and attractions. And when it’s time for a weekend escape, North Carolina’s diverse landscapes make it easy—Durham is just two hours from the beautiful Atlantic beaches and three hours from the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether unwinding on the coast, hiking mountain trails, or exploring small towns, residents have endless opportunities to recharge, connect, and make the most of their time here.

We hope we've given you a better sense of what our residency program is all about, but we would be happy to answer any other questions you might have. Please feel free to email us and we would be happy to give you the phone numbers and/or email addresses of some residents to contact.