Amy Bier, MD

Bridges Family Endowed Chief Resident

What’s next for you, personally and professionally? Why did you decide on that route?

Following my chief year, I will be completing a fellowship in Hospice and Palliative Medicine here at UW–Madison. I am so honored and excited to pursue this specialty, following many years of my interest in the field that started in medical school. A big part of deciding on this specialty was the change in focus palliative care offers from traditional medicine, focusing on alleviating the burden of symptoms and suffering patients' (and families') experience from their disease process. I really enjoy getting to know peoples' stories, and what makes them who they are, and palliative care allows that time and intimacy with them.

What are the main takeaways from your time as chief resident (i.e., what did you learn, what was memorable, etc.)?

My year as chief was a really enjoyable time. I got to work with amazing co-chiefs—shoutout to Kelsey, Mike and Caroline—and incredible residents. One main lesson is about building connections, no matter how small it may seem, to help build a network of support and communication for your future career and personal life. I also learned different ways to advocate for change, and avenues to make that change happen. Some of my most memorable moments included visiting King Faisal Hospital in Rwanda as part of the global health pathway, leading report with the residents, and learning from all of the great residents and faculty around me.

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?

1. For the incoming chiefs: the year feels daunting, but it is so much fun! You get to spend a year focusing more on yourself and personal goals, without the strict structure of residency. You will learn so much about yourself and how to solve issues that arise, and you get to work with truly incredible people.
2. For the incoming interns, this is such an exciting time! Intern year is scary and overwhelming, but we are here for you. From attendings, fellows, co-residents, chiefs, faculty, and administration, find your people and lean on them. Remember that you are not alone, and there are many people who have been through what you're experiencing. Reach out for help and support, and don't feel like you are alone. You will have so much fun learning and shaping your future clinical abilities and meeting the people you'll be spending lots and lots of time with!
3. For those who may be applying to chief, you should do it! I was on the fence for a long time but ultimately it was a great decision and I've had a wonderful year. You have the opportunity to impact how others experience residency and advocate for positive change.

Is there anything else you’d like to share, whether they’re shout-outs or memories?

Shout out to everyone who helped me along the way, it's way too many to count, but in particular my co-chiefs, my husband Joe Nye, and all the others who supported me this year!