Most medical students begin their first year with the feelings of excitement tinged with nervousness.  It is a safe bet that those of you who enrolled in the Indiana  University School of Medicine this year have been experincing these emotions.

Dean D. Craig Brater took it upon himself to ask former graduates of the School of Medicine and others who know the importance of a good doctor to give some advice to you as new students.  Below you will find what some of them had to say.

Advice from those who have been there... 

I believe incoming students should remember what I was told at the start of medical school: 1. Be honest-say "I don't know" when you don't know. 2. Say "Thank You" to
everyone for the privilege of caring. 3. Have fun-be happy doing what you should do. To be a good doctor, develop your skills for forming relationships: 1. Be compassionate. 2. Be conversant-balance listening and talking. 3. Communicate-make sure patients understand you and that you understand them. 4. Be confident.
      - Michael A. Agostino, M.D., 1989

1. Be a good listener to your patients' complaints. 2. Don't discuss your personal life where patients can hear you.
      - David L. Alvis, M.D., 1960

Sit down and talk with your patients-they will usually tell you what is wrong. Don't sit with your back to the patient while adding your "computer stuff."
     - Robert D. Arnold, M.D., 1947

Listen to your patients. They will tell you what is wrong with them.
      - Craig S. Barkley, M.D., 1984

Listen! Listen to the patient; hear him out. Often he will tell you what his problem is, if you listen. Remember the words of Ambrose Paré: "I gave the medicine, God healed him."
      - Helen B. Barnes, M.D., 1942

Listen, really listen. Respond professionally, but with
compassion. Be available within limits. Be timely. Don't be afraid to say, "I don't know, but..." Stay current or get out. Family is important, too.
     - Bill Batt

The individual practice of medicine has regrettably shown evolution into more selfish motives such as greed, loss of work ethic and an easier lifestyle. Some of this is partly
understandable due to circumstances. But this has impacted the public's perception of us as physicians. I believe the most important attribute of a physician is empathy for the position or plight of our patients. If patients appreciate that we are truly concerned, that we understand and experience with them their angst, fears and uncertainties, then we will be better regarded by them as well as experiencing the blessings of making an impact on their lives.
      - Buck Beeler, M.D., 1979

Be patient and listen!
     - Steven C. Beering, M.D.

Please learn manners: how to eat, how to be polite and how not to interrupt people.
      - Louis B. Bixler, M.D., 1970

Read the Bible.
      - Joseph L. Borowitz

Be good citizens in the medical community. Be active on your medical staff and medical societies. Volunteer to be committee members or officers. Strong support begets a strong medical community.
     - Terry R. Brown, M.D., 1977

The practice of medicine has changed but the personal satisfaction of assisting people with their health remains very rewarding.
      - W. George Brueggemann, M.D., 1967

You are  entering a profession that allows you the privilege of serving your fellow human beings. Study and work hard, maintain your integrity, and keep a balance in your life between school/work and the "non-medicine" portion of your life.
     - Carolyn Cunningham, M.D. 1967

Medicine is a "jealous mistress" who requires your constant attention.
     - Fred W. Dahling, M.D., 1956

The steadily increasing regulation of the medicine by bureaucrats threatens the fabric of our profession, but it is still a noble profession. Those are battles to be aware of now, but to be fought when you are out in practice. Your vocation now as a student is to study hard and learn. Learn all you can in your first two years and on your clinical rotations. Learn from your mentors how to care for your patients in a kind, compassionate and professional way.
Doing what is right and best for your patient should be your guide. The continuity of care your patients deserve means hard work and long hours-medicine is not a nine-to-five "job," it's a profession. Having said that, take time for friends, family and recreation-your mind and body need the break from the demands of your work and your children need your presence.
     - Chad J. Davis, M.D., 1984

 You are entering the most time-honored profession. It is a privilege to be a physician. Respect and cherish it. Regardless of the political, social and financial environment, care of the patient is always your primary responsibility. If you care for the patient the patient will
in turn take care of you. Physicians as a group are the last of the independent thinkers. Enter and leave the profession independent and as a thinker.
    - Robert E. Dicks, M.D., 1969

Certainly the practice of medicine has changed in 30 years and it will continue to change. But the satisfaction of the healing touch between a physician and a patient will never be replaced.
     - Stephen F. Duncan, M.D., 1977

Complete knowledge of one's subject. A warm and caring attitude.
      - Selma G. Earnest

Develop your individual style, interview techniques and communication skills. Have fun.
      - C. Dyke Egnatz, M.D., 1960

Earn the respect of your patients through both your humane, caring attitude as well as your professional skills/knowledge. 2. Attempt to find the etiologic cause of their signs/symptoms. 3. Attempt to correct the etiologic cause if possible. 4. If not possible, give them comfort and support and hope where appropriate.
     - James V. Faris, M.D., 1968

The academic demands of medical school can be all-consuming, but it is vital to maintain a balanced life. Allot time for fun, hobbies and especially your family. A balanced life is essential to your long-term success as an M.D.
      - S. Edwin Fineberg, M.D.

Study hard, but step back and enjoy what a privilege you have to be experiencing the incredible education that you are being given. Always make time for your family and friends-they will sustain you through any trials. We are a part of the most honorable profession, be proud.
      - Robert L. Forste, M.D., 1971

Treat your classmates as colleagues not competitors and continue this throughout your careers. Their motivations and desires are similar to yours. 
     - Ronald A. Fragen, M.D., 1964

Tips for students: In order to become a well-rounded, well-educated physician, I think every student should pay attention to the world about him/her-national, state and local news-at the same time as paying alert attention in lectures and clinical situations. Ask questions to be sure that your understanding is correct. As a practicing physician: Treat people with the same compassion and listening ear that you would use in treating your beloved relatives.
      - Norma French, R.N.

As you embark on a challenging journey, I want to assure you that you have already made two excellent decisions. You have chosen a most satisfying profession, and you have selected the Indiana University School of Medicine to prepare you for that goal. Add to that a dedication to improve the lives of those you treat, and you will experience a rich, fulfilling career.
      - Edward R. Gabovitch, M.D., 1957

Keep your desired interest of becoming a physician. Be compassionate. Study and keep up with the "current" times and issues as you age. My late physician husband well into his 80s learned to take-and did very well-on CME courses on his computer, including a difficult exam at 89 years ... the night before he passed away.
      - Annette Gambill

After sending five children through medical school, I know it takes hard work and perseverance. Don't give up. It's rewarding in the end.
     - Mary Garner

Enter the practice of medicine because you love caring for others. They in turn will love you! 
     - Alan Gillespie, M.D.

I married upon my graduation from USC. We lived with my mother a few months before moving to a small apartment in Speedway City. Being off campus, I was somewhat isolated and didn't have the opportunity to be in a study group of four students. I think there is synergism studying in a group. If something is not understood, probably at least one person in the group gets it or understands it. Also, learning by one's self is input in only one way-reading-but in a group where discussion takes place, there's also the  auditory conduit which is different from the visual conduit. While in the beginning some time might be wasted in getting to know your other three study partners, but after a few sessions you should be able to focus on the subject at hand. Additionally, the leisurely pace of some majors and some schools will need to be geared up. You have more subject matter to digest in less time in medical school since the classroom work and  lectures consume so much of your day that it's important to stay abreast. You've come this far, don't give up!
      - Robert L. Gray, M.D., 1966

1. Learn something each day and learn it well. 2. Most of the ten questions don't cover all of the important material; don't worry about that! 3. Make sure that you can do a good physical exam so that you can understand pathophysiology. 4. Be an advocate for excellent patient care and don't compromise on that trust that the patient gives you.
      - Paul A. Greenberger, M.D., 1973

It may be overused but it's very true: "No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care."
      - Steve Hopf, M.D., 1993

Always put the patient first.
      - D. W. Humphreys, M.D.

Love God and family. Live in daytime compartments. Live in equanimity. Turn anxiety about a patient to good through more thought and study.
      - Glenn Irwin, Jr., M.D., May 1944

Enjoy your medical student years. It's a time to form great friendships and experience the entire scope of medicine. Becoming a physician is a privileged opportunity you have earned, but it is also both a science and an art that must be learned. Be patient, you will get there.
      - Steven F. Isenberg, M.D., 1975

Remember your priorities: the learning of medicine as presented and observing patients. It is a good idea to jot down information as you see patients in a notebook you carry around and keep those notebooks in a chronological file.  Sir Wm. Osler wrote: "Record that which you have seen, make a note at the time; do not wait." 
     - Charles E. Jackson, M.D., 1946

Need to stress the art of medicine as well as the scientific aspect of medicine. A big complaint is, "My doctor does not make me feel as if he cares about me as a person."
     - Charles R. King, M.D., 1964

Keep an open mind as you go through each rotation. Try to imagine yourself long-term in each field of medicine. Think, "Would I be happy doing this the rest of my life?" To enjoy your work is a gift. You are going through medical school and residency, but you will be in your respective field for 30 years!
     - Cynthia Kizer, M.D., 2002

Maintaining academic excellence and professional integrity throughout your working life is essential. 2. In any  negotiation, your  adversaries must know that you will walk away from a bad deal-no exceptions. 3. Read Sun Tzu's The Art of War now. 4. Don't associate with bad doctors and don't be one.
     - Philip J. Kline, M.D., 1976

You may find the most rewarding practice will be as a primary care physician. The need is great, and becoming thoroughly and intimately acquainted with your patients and their families is what it's all about. 
     - Wayne Knochel, M.D., 1962

Never has the future of medicine been so challenging and formidable as it is now. You face new adversities that your predecessors never had to deal with, even just 15-20 years ago. Stay the course, and keep one honorable focus in mind: We went into this wanting to help our fellow man.
      - Kinga Kocsis, M.D., 1981

Ask questions. You will never have so many resources so easily within your reach as when you rotate at one of the finest academic medical centers in the world. Record your experiences as you go through your training.
      - Elizabeth A. Basquin Krause, M.D., 1988

Dear New Doctors: Kindness, sincerity and a little humor go a long way when treating patients. Also, remember that what appears to be a small hurt may be big and scary to the patient.
      - Deanna M. Lathom

1. Be kind. Sometimes all your patient wants is to know someone cares. 2. Be responsible and be reliable. Medicine is a team sport. 3. Patients have names; always use them.
4. Be grateful; ten other qualified applicants wanted your slot. 5. Pay back when you can, and give back to your school so other students can follow in your footsteps.  6. Try not to judge. You never have all the facts. 7. Having another person ask you to care for him/her is an honor.  8. Appreciate your life. Some of your patients are fighting for theirs. 9. When you feel sorry for yourself, take a hike through Riley Hospital. 10. Figure out the right side of your bed, and get up on that side each morning. 11. It's MY patient-not THE patient. 12. It's okay not to know the answer; it's not okay not to figure it out.
     - James F. Leland, M.D.

Think of medicine as a calling, not a 9-5 job. The patient-doctor relationship is most rewarding and beneficial. If it is just a job, be an accountant or a lawyer.
      - Walter Lippard, M.D., 1965

Take business courses.
      - Therese G. Luce, M.D.

Two very important qualities are the ability to listen to patients and to have a good sense of humor. Plenty of "smart" physicians lack one or both.
      - Rob Manges, M.D., 1988

My life as a family practice physician is a very rewarding experience. I love being a physician in one of Indiana's most rural counties. Med school was very tough for me, but trust me, all your effort is worth it. God's blessing to each of you!
       - Susan Martin, M.D., 1982

Do your best to truly learn and retain, as opposed to taking exams just to pass or excel on them. Get a framed copy of Desiderata and refer to it frequently, especially during the more difficult times now and throughout life.
      - William K. McGarvey, M.D., 1962

Make every attempt to enjoy this day completely. So often as a student we look forward to what is next, missing the importance of the present. Value your spouse, family, and friends and realize they have sacrificed for your education.
      - Thomas E. McSoley, M.D., 1979

Spend time with the best teachers no matter what the subject matter. You will have more than enough time to learn your chosen discipline in your residency.
      - Scott Miethke, M.D., 1987

Qualities most important in a good doctor: 1. Be a good listener. 2. Patience. 3. Compassion. 4. Stay current on the latest medical developments. 5. Allow enough time with each patient. 6. Return calls in a reasonable time. (These are  opinions of myself and four friends. My husband felt the  students should attend classes instead of using a website!) 
     - Margaret T. Miller

Dear Student: Study hard, learn as much as you can and be the best you can be. God bless.
      - William & Barbara Moeller

It is a privilege to treat (care for) patients. Doctor = teacher, physician = healer. We are to teach/educate as well as heal/show compassion for all our patients. We have five senses
and a heart-use them all.  A good history is 90% of a diagnosis; a good physical exam is 99% of a diagnosis. I learned this my first year of medical school! And it's true!
      - Kristen Moffit, M.D., 1986

Medical school is demanding and absorbing. So, too, will be your practice after you graduate. Cultivate and keep close friendships with some persons who have nothing to do with the world of medicine. They will help you maintain a balanced perspective of the world. Always preserve time for family.
     - Marjorie E. Nelson, M.D., 1964

Do not ever assume a patient is a "crock." If you cannot make a diagnosis, you have not looked hard enough yet. Balance your life between family and your patients, but remember to be the patient's advocate. This means the patient often will have to come first. Don't ever, ever fabricate a finding. "Just do it."
      - Raymond W. Nicholson, Jr., M.D., 1955

Strive to be the type of caring physician that you would take your family and loved ones to see.
      - Jacqueline A. O'Donnell, M.D., 1975

The ideal practicing physician will have ability, affability and availability.
     - Byron J. Park, M.D., 1950

1. Listen to the patient. 2. Observe nonverbal "language." 3. Remember anxiety is high at visits. 4. Use layman's language to explain procedures and treatments. 
     - Betty Phillips, RNCPNP, 1983

Hang around the operating room on your own time. Follow a case to scrub in, help, don't hear critical remarks. This is your time. Take as many varied electives as you can. I started wanting to be a pediatric cardiologist but ended up a pediatric craniofacial surgeon. An academic even - Jeez! So take electives that don't have anything to do with your "chosen career," and stay on campus and make like you want to be an academic doc. Do some research. You never know. Take electives at another school.  (I spent six months at Yale.) Become involved! Have fun! Dive in! Spend a month on Neurosurgery. Try everything. Something will strike you as a "good fit." Then go for the best residency  you can get. Love and respect your family. Respect your teachers. No matter how tired you are, take 30 minutes three times per week for some kind of exercise, and always take time for family and friends. Learn a little about business and law. Immerse yourself in life and medicine. Good Luck!
     - Richard James Phillips, M.D., 1973

1. Learn to listen carefully to the patient's story and establish eye contact while listening. 2. Always touch the patient during a patient visit. This can be with the stethoscope or by palpation but people like to be examined and that means touching the patient. Do not rely solely on test results. 3. Take all medical classes with a mind-set that you plan to be a family doctor. That way you will be interested in all subjects rather than thinking you don't need to know something because you are going to specialize in a certain area. Even if you do specialize, you will find the knowledge that you gained will be of benefit to some future patient.
      - John Pittman, M.D., 1957

Be friendly even if you feel terrible. Smile cheerfully. Wash hands between each patient. Never ridicule or make fun of any patient. Have fun practicing medicine. The more difficult medical cases and problems make the profession more rewarding. 
     - Marvin E. Priddy, M.D., 1955

Get involved with philanthropy; volunteering for the public good. Teach your children to be involved with their community. Be careful not to become addicted to drugs or alcohol. Keep your family together and take time to be with your family.
     - George F. Rapp, M.D., 1957

Keep an open mind about your areas of interest. Investigate as many areas of medicine that interest you and don't be afraid to change your mind. Find the area that will keep you happy your entire life. Also if you can, get involved with the IU/Kenya project and do a rotation there. It will change your life.
      - Kyle Rapp, M.D., 1999

My advice to IU medical students is to discipline yourself to manage your time wisely, and to study and work to the maximum. Do these as you keep your eyes, heart and mind on the prize-to become the best doctor you can be with knowledge and be dedicated to service with integrity and compassion to the ill and their families.
     - George H. Rawls, M.D.

Stay compassionate and focused. Keep your patients' good will and trust.
      - Christi L. Redmon, M.D., 1983

By all that you hold holy, make a sacred pledge to practice your medical skills for the public good for at least 20 years. You have assumed the public's trust to care for their well being by accepting your position in medical school. The cost to society for your education is great and the resource you represent should not be squandered on those who do not take this appointment as a most serious obligation. If you cannot make this pledge, decline your appointment now so that someone willing to perform this duty might be privileged to have the chance to serve.
      - Jan R. Reineke, M.D., 1967

Always put yourself in the position of the patient and act accordingly.
     - Frank Retherford, M.D., 1977

I have observed that young doctors need to be more considerate of their patients and also more accessible.
      - Norval S. Rich, M.D., 1953

It is important to become a physician because we want to help people. Other considerations (money, lifestyle, prestige) may change with society and should be less
important.
     - Luis Rodriguez, M.D.

Samuel Johnson said it first. "Students need reminders more than instruction." (Especially from a long-retired pushin' 80 pediatrician who's spent too many misguided years convinced that distance running is the key to love, joy and health care reform.) Reminder #1: we need primary care physicians infinitely more than subspecialists. Reminder #2: extreme wealth can be rather risky for self, family and the greater society.
     - Jerry Ruff, M.D., 1962

Another acronym to learn! PRIDE: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Dedication, Empathy. 
     - James Sardo, M.D., 1993

Stay in good health. "A sound mind in a sound body."  Proper diet, adequate exercise, honesty, integrity, compassion for all; humanity in sickness or health. Have faith in God-you will never know everything or understand it all. Never stop studying.
     - Leon H. Schmidt, M.D., 1952

So many M.D.s think they have to be in a large city and/or large hospital. Take a careful look at smaller rural towns and small local hospitals. You can be important and not be just a number. I practice in a small town. We live on a lake where other people go for a vacation. I'm important in our town and the only M.D. within 10 miles of the hospital. Retired now-25 years. No large town rat race for me.
     - Wayne Schrepferman, M.D., 1953

Students should: 1. Learn from all experiences. Some you can learn what to do, others you can learn what not to do. 2. Be sincere and caring. Patients appreciate your attention and touch, even if brief. 3. Keep a good sense of humor- be able to laugh at yourself. 4. Invest in important relationships, especially your spouse. The dividends are higher than any in your future stock portfolio.
     - Rudy Schwenk, M.D., 1980

The most important quality that you can have as a doctor is to deeply care about the welfare of your patients-not only their physical health, but their mental, emotional, and
spiritual health as well. 
     - D. Bruce Shelton, M.D., 1981

Make good friends with your classmates, they will help you navigate medical school. Honesty is a great quality!
     - Janine Susott Sheppard, M.D., 1983

It is so important for your financial future to pay for as much of your medical school education as you go. Do not get in excessive debt. It is hard on a marriage also. We graduated debt-free. (Lorraine)  Please encourage the students that they are becoming healers, not just doctors. (Steve)
     - Steven Alan Smith, M.D., 1979 and L. J. Smith

My advice is to anticipate the personal satisfaction that a physician receives from providing healthcare. At times, you will be physically and mentally exhausted-you will recover. Resolve to learn from every patient-medical education is a lifelong endeavor.
     - George W. Sorrells, M.D., 1962

There are more than books and classes in medical school. Get involved and start volunteering early. It will make your experience all that much more rewarding and will remind you why you came to medical school in the first place-to help others.
     - Melissa Spurr, M.D., 2007

If possible, pick friends to be your anatomy colleagues. It would seem that these friends remain friends through your life. Also, put aside one night per week to review your
dissection findings. When you get out in practice, always observe the highest ethical standards. Do not advertise; if you are well-trained, people will patronize you and you will make a good living. Do not enter medicine to make a fortune but more importantly to help people. 
     - Carl B. Sputh, M.D., 1941

I'll quote William Mayo, M.D. (~1912): "The interest of the patient is the only interest to be considered."
     - Kurt Stiver, M.D., 1979

Listen to the patient. He or she will tell you what the problem is. All you have to do is correct the complaints. Keep your mind open and be attentive while in the presence of the patient. Keep your sense of humor for your sanity.
      - R. C. Stone, M.D., 1958

Read: Abraham Herschel, The Insecurity of Freedom (especially The Patient as a Person and The Last Day of Maimonides), and William Osler, Counsels & Ideals. Share your observations, concerns, ideas with a trusted mentor.
     - Robert A. Strawbridge, M.D., 1970

One thought-to you-the intelligent professional: As you are busy with many obligations, take time to be kind, thoughtful and compassionate to your patients and their families.
     - Mary Jane Sursa

Be kind, for everyone you meet (colleagues, teachers and especially patients) is fighting a great battle.
      - Martin A. Thomas, M.D., 1952

Never forget why you chose medicine as a career. It wasn't for fancy houses and cars and lifestyles. It was to serve others, to participate meaningfully in their lives, to alleviate suffering, TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
     - Bill Tierney, M.D., 1976

Take a break from studying at least one day per week.
      - Tom Troeger, M.D., 1962

Medicine is such a vast specialty,  and with all of the new advancements in technology and all of the regulations from insurance companies and the government, it can be overwhelming. Find a passion and focus on it. Remember what your purpose is and, one patient at a time, you can make a real difference in people's lives.
     - Kirsten Turchan, M.D., 1988

Think of medicine as a service and remember your need to be "customer-friendly." Be humble, not arrogant, and be the voice of reason and science and critical thinking.
     - Carletta Vanderbilt, M.D., 1976

As a widow and mother of physicians and a grandmother of a physician-in-training, it is my observation that patients naturally appreciate a physician who is a skilled diagnostician and practitioner. But the scales are tipped and the patients are doubly appreciative when their
physician is available, takes time to answer their calls, listens and talks to them, and is genuinely concerned about their welfare.
      - Margaret Vogel

The practice of medicine provides its greatest rewards when physicians revere their profession as a personal calling and not just an interesting occupation. The honor of attending to the health of our fellow human beings during the intimate and vulnerable moments of their lives is both an awesome responsibility and sacred privilege. To be a caring presence for persons throughout their life journey from birth to death is to give and receive a richness of being that few professions can offer.
     - Gerald C. Walthall, M.D., 1969

Congratulations on choosing medicine as your profession! It is the most wonderful and fulfilling profession in the world, and the IU School of Medicine will provide you with the  opportunity to acquire a superb professional foundation. So wear your white coat with great joy, quiet satisfaction and deep reverence. It is truly an honor, a thrill and a privilege to provide care and caring to others. Celebrate and enjoy every day of your medical school and professional life, wear out many white coats, and savor the journey!
     - Blake E. Waterhouse, M.D., 1967

Remember to always show compassion to your patients. Listen to them carefully. They come to you at great times of need in their life, and their needs are not always the same
as yours would be in the same situation.
     - Mildred Willy, M.D., 1996

As you pursue your field, I will share the three-fold philosophy by which my father structured the chronology of his life and career: learn, earn and return. Be smart,
work hard, and as you attain success, donate time and talents to serve your community.
     - S. Wolen

Marry a reliable partner whom you will keep the rest of your life. The journey into medicine is long and tortuous, so you need an anchor and refuge. I have witnessed a tremendous amount of time and effect expended changing spouses after becoming professionals, and it is such a waste. "It's not where you go in life-it's who you have beside you."
     - Joseph W. Young, M.D., 1959

A great many of us-more than you know-become alcoholics and drug addicts. We've all said "No, not me!" It hits us before we know what happened-even to the best of us. Remember, it's a genetic disease, it's without a moral etiology. You can get help and save your license through the ISMA when it grabs you or your colleague. Been there, done that; back to a great practice.
     - Anonymous

Research all specialties well before deciding! Lifestyle considerations are of most importance.
     - Anonymous