What's next for Chief Resident Dr. Haley Probst?
Haley Probst, MD
Trowbridge Endowed General Internal Medicine Chief Resident
What’s next for you, personally and professionally? Why did you decide on that route?
I’m excited to share that I will be starting as a hospitalist at SSM St. Mary’s Hospital this July. It’s a wonderful opportunity that allows me to remain in Madison, a place I’ve come to love during my training. Being able to continue caring for members of our community is something I feel incredibly grateful for. More personally, with my excitement to remain in Madison, I recently purchased a home in the area that I can’t wait to make my own. I have a bit of time between the end of my chief duties and the start of my new job, which I hope to spend completing projects on the home and traveling with friends and family.
What are the main takeaways from your time as chief resident (i.e., what did you learn, what was memorable, etc.)?
A large theme throughout this year has been trying to find balance. In this role, my co-chiefs and I have been challenged with making or weighing in on decisions that would affect our learners, patients, and institutions. Trying to balance the sometimes competing interests of these groups was a challenge I didn’t always grasp during the initial years of residency. However, having to do so has helped me gain more perspective and will hopefully make me a better leader in the long run.
What advice/words of encouragement do you have for 1) the incoming chiefs, 2) the incoming interns (PG-1s), and 3) residents who are considering applying for chief residencies next year?
- I think my best piece of advice is to work together and make difficult decisions collectively. Chief year is more than just scheduling rotations and coordinating resident education. You will be giving and receiving feedback for residents, helping struggling learners, and ensuring professional behavior within our program. When you are unsure of how to proceed, work with each other to devise a plan that is best for our patients and the resident’s education.
- Know that you are where you are supposed to be. Starting intern year is a big step up in responsibility and presents you with many challenges. Be patient with yourself, and if you feel overwhelmed, ask for help from your co-interns, senior residents, or attendings. UW has an incredibly welcoming community, and everyone around you wants you to succeed. Once you’ve settled in, take the initiative and jump on opportunities that come your way to make the most of your time here!
- If you ever get a chance to take on the chief resident role, know that it will be challenging but incredibly rewarding. You will take on roles and learn skills that residency alone won’t teach you. Embrace the journey, and don't forget to enjoy the moments along the way.
Is there anything else you’d like to share, whether it’s shout-outs or memories?
I want to thank all my co-chiefs and program leadership for supporting me during this year. My favorite memories from my chief year have been the time spent problem-solving with Lucas, Geralyn, and Mazen in our shared office. Without each other, this year would not have been the same. We had so many shared frustrations, laughs, and victories. Our camaraderie was truly the highlight of the year.
Banner: Haley Probst, MD, Trowbridge Endowed General Internal Medicine Chief Resident. Credit: Clint Thayer/Department of Medicine.