In this installment of our series talking with medical trainees, we're joined by Dr. Ava Ferguson Bryan, a general surgery resident at the University of Chicago. Dr. Ferguson Bryan shares her winding path to medicine, from initially pursuing English and art history, to discovering a passion for surgery during her clinical rotations.

She provides an honest look at the challenges and sacrifices of surgical training, including the lengthy 7-8 year commitment and the impact on work-life balance, especially as a woman having children during residency. Dr. Ferguson Bryan also discusses the evolving landscape of surgical education, including competency-based assessments that may allow for more flexibility in training duration.

This episode offers valuable insights for aspiring physicians navigating the realities of surgical specialties and the broader effort to diversify the field. Dr. Ferguson Bryan's personal experience provides a nuanced perspective on the progress made, as well as the work still needed to support the next generation of surgeon-trainees.