Authored by Dr. Leland Jaffe; Associate Dean and Professor – Class of 2008; Published on April 25th, 2024
Dear Graduating Class of 2024
Congratulations to the graduating class of 2024! As we approach the culmination of your academic journey and the celebration of commencement, I wanted to take a moment to share some reflections and words of guidance as you prepare to embark on the next phase of your career. The commencement program is not just a graduation ceremony; it’s a milestone that marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities, challenges, and endless possibilities.
First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to every one of you. Your dedication, hard work, and perseverance have brought you to this momentous occasion, and I am incredibly proud of your accomplishments. As you prepare to walk across the stage and receive your diplomas on this day and celebrate with your family members, take a moment to reflect on the journey that has brought you here and the countless hours of study, research, and personal growth that have shaped you into the remarkable individuals you are today.
My Commencement in 2008
I can honestly say that it feels like yesterday that I walked across the stage in 2008 and received my doctorate degree and diploma. Graduation day for me was a day of mixed emotions: excitement, nervousness, accomplishment, and sadness – as this was the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. I loved my four years of podiatric medical school and I built some lifelong relationships during that time. However, as they say, change is inevitable, as it is an inherent aspect of life’s ever-evolving nature – and I was ready to take the next step towards my residency training.
Commencement 2024 Marks The Beginning of a New Adventure
While commencement is a time of celebration and reflection, it also marks the beginning of a new adventure as you transition into the next phase of your professional life following that final semester. As you prepare for the next steps in your journey, I encourage you to embrace curiosity, resilience, and a spirit of lifelong learning. Stay open to new experiences, be willing to take risks, and never stop challenging yourself to grow and evolve. Remember that your education is not limited to the classroom or clinical settings; it extends to every interaction, every opportunity, and every moment of discovery. Every patient encounter can be an excellent learning opportunity for you.
Cultivate Meaningful Relationships in Residency
Furthermore, I urge you to cultivate and continue meaningful relationships and connections with your peers, mentors, and colleagues as you navigate the complexities of the post-graduation world. Your network of support and guidance will be invaluable as you navigate the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead. Remember to seek out mentors who can offer advice, guidance, and support as you embark on your professional journey. Some of my closest friends are still the ones that I graduated with from podiatry school.
Finally, I want to remind you that commencement is not the end of your relationship with our institution; it’s just the beginning of a lifelong connection to our community. Stay engaged, stay connected, and never hesitate to reach out if you need support or assistance along the way. We are here for you every step of the way, cheering you on as you chase your goals and make your mark on the world. I hope you feel a connection to this university throughout your career, as I have throughout mine.
Advice for the Graduates of the Class of 2024
Feeling uncertain about one’s preparedness before residency training is a common and natural experience shared by many medical graduates. Transitioning from medical school to residency represents a significant shift in responsibilities and expectations. The prospect of assuming greater clinical autonomy and managing complex patient cases can evoke feelings of apprehension and self-doubt. Additionally, anticipating new challenges, adapting to different healthcare settings, and working alongside experienced clinicians may contribute to feelings of uncertainty. However, it’s important to recognize that these feelings are part of the learning process and are often indicative of a desire to excel and grow professionally. Graduates can overcome these initial uncertainties with time, support from colleagues and mentors, and a commitment to continuous learning and thrive in their residency training.
Advice For Graduates
As you prepare to embark on your residency journey, I offer you some advice that I hope will serve you well. Firstly, embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. Residency is a time of intense training and hands-on experience, so approach each day with a mindset of curiosity and enthusiasm. Be proactive in seeking out learning opportunities, asking questions, and asking for feedback from your mentors and peers.
Secondly, prioritize self-care and well-being. Residency can be demanding both physically and emotionally, so make sure to prioritize your health and take time for self-care activities that recharge and rejuvenate you. Finally, remember that you are not alone. Lean on your fellow residents, mentors, and support network for guidance, encouragement, and camaraderie. Your residency journey may have its challenges, but it is also an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling experience that will shape you into the podiatric physician you aspire to be. Congratulations on reaching this milestone, and best of luck on your residency journey ahead!
In closing, I want to congratulate you on this momentous achievement once again. As you prepare to embark on the next chapter of your life, know that you have the knowledge, skills, and determination to succeed in the next phase of your training. Commencement is just the beginning of an incredible journey, and I can’t wait to see where it takes you.
Advice From Other Faculty and Physicians
Advice From Duane Ehredt Jr., DPM, FACFAS – Associate Professor at Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine (KSUCPM). You have a finite amount of time during residency. Use every waking moment to get better. Be a part of every case you can possibly be a part of. Prioritize quality sleep over any other extracurricular activity.
Let’s Stay In Touch!
To help me stay in touch with you, please consider sharing your contact information with me through contact@higherlearninghub.com and consider subscribing to keep in touch! I truly value the professional relationship that I’ve created with each of you and I hope to stay connected as you take the next step in your professional careers. Know that I’ll always be available to help you along your path!
Until next time!
