Celebrations and Congratulations

On Monday, I bumped into my preceptor from my last rotation. He also happens to be the director of the residency program at my university. I applied to this residency and a residency at a VA center in my hometown. When I first started the application process, I was sure the residency at my university was the position I most desired. After the interviews for the two programs concluded, however, I was sure that it was not the program I most desired. First the pay was a couple thousand less. Secondly, and most importantly, the work schedule sucked. Residents were required to work every other weekend - with no compensation for their time. I didn't think that was fair. Especially since the regular staff pharmacists, making at least double my salary, would only be working every 4th weekend or so. Third, I may have been required to work in a town almost an hour away. I toured that facility and hated it. It was like walking back into 1950. So, when I saw my previous preceptor on Monday, it was odd to say the least. He kept patting me on the shoulder and wishing me luck with my residency matching. I didn't have the heart to tell him I didn't rank him #1.

The ASHP Resident Matching Program issued its results today. I received my #1 choice - the VA Center. I am really excited about the opportunity. I think it's going to be a great experience to say the least. From my rotation at this facility, I have met the staff and really like them. I absolutely love working with the vet population. The other residency position only filled one of its positions. Maybe now they'll reconsider their benefit package... But I don't have time to worry about that, it's time to celebrate!!! :)