Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Dermatology 101

Yesterday in neurology clinic:

Dr. Torres (the attending): "So what do you want to do with your life?"

Me: "Well, I have a top 5...it pretty much boils down to dermatology, neurology, family medicine, pediatrics, or endocrinology. Pretty broad, I know, but I think derm is definitely up there."

Dr. Torres: "Dermatology? Well, you have to be all posh for that. Wear high heels and have those Louis Vouitton purses."

Me: "huh, yeah. It's pretty competitive I hear."

Dr. Torres: "Yep, really. You have to have perfect skin too. I don't know about that for you. They're all about looking beautiful. So much of their practices are cosmetic, you know, so just keep your options open because you might not cut it."

Me: "well, I'm working really hard, you know, and I think I can do it. I've got good board scores and research so I hope that makes a difference too."

Dr. Torres: "Well, you know, you won't get into a top program or anything, but maybe somewhere in the midwest. Yeah, I bet there are some fat derms in the midwest. Gotta be."

I'm not even making this stuff up. Seriously? I know I'm pretty nerdy, and not exactly the most beautiful person you'll ever meet, and I struggle with Rosacea/acne, and I also know you can't take this stuff seriously, but you tell me, how would you feel if your superior talked to you like this? And she has to evaluate me! Um, I'm pretty sure I won't be applying for neurology in Tucson is all I have to say.