experience from wuximm, so proud of you!

Well, don't be nervous, I think you have more clinical skills than the most of interns in your class. The only problem you may have is you may need time to get used to the US health care systems.

I was a Ophthalmologist back in Shanghai. I forgot all about internal medicine and OB Gyn, so, my first rotation in ER in a county hospital almost killed me, we never had any orientation to get to know the computer systems, call rooms, etc, and I was expected to get into actions right away.

I was shocked to see inmates coming in with their handcuffs on and with police escorts. I was also traumatized when I had to stay in exam room to do a pelvic exam for a 300 Lbs AA F by myself, I was so insignificant ( I am only 156cm tall), I had to stand on a stool in order to perform it with the odor..., I almost cried.

I also survived brutal MICU rotations, I worked 110hrs/wk since 1/3 of residents were off for Christmas, I remember me and a 2nd yr resident had to code pts 6 times and lost 3 pts at a 24 hrs shift. In the end, both of us laughted hysterically to relieve the pressures.

I also remember my surgical ER rotation, 24 hrs on and 24 hrs off, that was where I can show off my surgical skills, suturing countless lacerations, drain abscess and deals with gun shot wound, etc. In 90's, there were no cap in terms how long residents could work etc, We always encourage each other as saying" eat when you can and sleep when you can, and keep your mouth shut". Free hospital food helped a lot, except I was such a picky eater and I often left hospital with empty stomach. I ate at home-my husband pempered my stomach with all he can.

Now, I am working in a academic clinic with 3rd yr and 4th yr medical students and residents rotating here, I really can tell who will do well, I assure you that you will do well just be patient and give sometimes, it is perfectly normal at the beginning you feel like a loser or cry a few times, loss some lbs, in the end of your intern year, you will feel much better. Trust me!

-----------I took the liberty to post your reply as a separate article,  so that I and other new interns who are struggling with the anxiety can read this tremendous  post and be encouraged. Thank you, wuximm, I wish I will be as brave as you and go through this three year program without  any regret.