What's next for Chief Resident Dr. Geralyn Palmer?
Geralyn Palmer, MD
Vogelman/Carnes Family Endowed Chief Resident
What’s next for you, personally and professionally? Why did you decide on that route?
Starting this July, I will be moving to Nashville, Tennessee, to begin a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine! I started intern year in the Meriter ICU, and my love for the complexity and acuity of PCCM has grown ever since. I’m excited for a career that challenges me to think critically, build meaningful connections, and pursue my passion for health services research. While I’m sad to leave Madison, I am so grateful for the friends, colleagues, and mentors who have shaped me into the clinician and researcher I am today.
What are the main takeaways from your time as chief resident (i.e., what did you learn, what was memorable, etc.)?
It has been a privilege to serve as chief resident and to work alongside such an inspiring group of co-chiefs, residents, faculty, and program leadership. Chief year has deepened my appreciation for the art of teaching (and I am especially thankful for the residents’ patience as I developed my own style), the value of strong team dynamics, and the importance of creative problem solving. I am incredibly grateful for the relationships built and lessons learned over this past year and will always be thankful for my UW family.
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?
- Incoming chiefs: Our program is incredibly lucky to have you! Chief year affords you the time and opportunity to explore and grow in areas beyond clinical medicine. The year feels daunting but will FLY by! Make sure to count on each other, and always feel free to reach out with questions.
- Incoming interns: We are all cheering you on! Intern year can feel overwhelming and even a little scary at times, but please know you are not alone. Your chiefs, senior residents, co-interns, and program staff are all here to support you. You are not expected to know everything on day one – so please do not expect this of yourself! Your patients will be so lucky to have you and we are always here to help. You will be amazed by how much you grow in just one year, and all the incredible memories you will make along the way.
- Prospective chiefs: Chief year is a unique and rewarding opportunity to grow in so many different areas. If you are thinking about applying or have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out!
Is there anything else you’d like to share, whether it’s shout-outs or memories?
A huge shout-out to my incredible co-chiefs—Haley, Lucas, and Mazen—who carried me through this past year with countless office laughs, team dinners, emails, and spreadsheets. It’s been an absolute honor to work alongside you, and I cannot wait to see all that you accomplish in your careers. Thank you also to Andy, Dr. Kruser, Dr. Runo, Dr. Sodhi, and Dr. McCartney for believing in me and helping me grow as an educator, researcher, and clinician. I’m beyond grateful for my time at UW and will truly miss the people who have made this such a special place.
Banner: Geralyn Palmer, MD, Bridges Family Endowed Chief Resident. Credit: Clint Thayer/Department of Medicine.