Planning the Learning Journey : Charting Your Path to Success

Recently, during a conference, a young resident posed a question that prompted a trip down memory lane. I reflected on the path that led me to where I am today - a promising Orthopaedic Knee surgeon. The question was simple yet percipient: "How did you plan your fellowships?”

While I selected Orthopaedics in part due to personal reasons, my true academic interest and the foundation of passion in KNEES was built during my days at KEM hospital. It made sense to pursue (body part) sub-speciality training rather than getting lost in the intricacies of surgical techniques like ‘arthroscopy and arthroplasty’. People have spine issues, knee, shoulder, ankle/foot and/or hand problems. They seek help for bone and joint issues. How often does a patient come in asking for an arthroscopy or a total knee arthroplasty?

It is important to chart the path ahead. A surgical post-graduate taking random roads ahead (with no planned destination) could have fortuitous self-discoveries but could also risk running out of gas in the middle of nowhere. So, there’s plenty of value in diligent planning for the long haul. Have faith in the process and take one step at a time.

Just a Knee Surgeon! The idea was to focus on direction rather than the destination. The journey was about finding suitable mentors, technical trainings and the right introductions.

- Identifying Areas of Expertise (paediatric vs adult care, sports medicine, robotics etc). I needed to decide where my passion and skills aligned.

- Finding Renowned Centres and/or centres performing specific surgeries. This ensured that I would receive top-notch training and experience.

- Seeking Mentors, Not Just Trainers: Having teachers who could become future mentors was pivotal.

- Balancing Family and Finances: Life doesn't stop during your professional journey!

It helped to have guidance and support from seniors, colleagues-peers, teacher-mentors and strong luck! They built me my map. Maps are essential. Planning a journey without maps is like building a house without drawings.

How did you map your career path? Which were the best decisions you made? Share your experiences and insights in the comments! Let’s inspire and support each other as we navigate our professional journeys. ????

#Orthopaedics #FellowshipJourney #OrthoLife