Starting clinical rotations can be so daunting. It’s a totally different experience from your first two years of medical school. It’s also the first time in our careers as medical students that we get to use our skills. If you haven’t already, I recommend checking out my year by year overview to read more about my advice for starting clinical rotations. I’ve also put together a list of resources that I personally found helpful!

When getting ready for clinical rotations, the best thing that you can do is show up prepared + ready to learn. I’ve compiled a short list of things that I kept in my bag at all times to ensure that I was prepared for the day. It will usually vary slightly given the specific rotation that you are on. I also recommend asking your attending early on (even before you start, if you can!) if there is anything that you can do to help you prepare.

A look inside:

01. Snacks & Water (or drink)

I always keep nonperishable snacks in my bag: granola bars, small bags of snacks, something that I could grab + eat quickly. Some days, you’ll inevitably miss a meal + having your security snacks on hand can save you! Especially on busy rotations like surgery or OB, eat (+ hydrate) when you can! Also, always eat breakfast – you’ll never know when your next meal will be!

02. A Resource Book to reference

Whether you have a universal resource book or you have specialty-specific resources, I always liked to keep one in my bag just in case. It was handy to reference if I had a question about something, if we had downtime between patients or cases, or to squeeze in a little bit of studying for your exam. Although you can find everything on your phone, I tried to limit my time on my phone especially when I was with a resident or attending.

03. Blank Notebook/Notepad & Pens

You never know when your attending will break out into a spontaneous teaching session or you’ll need a blank piece of paper to write down your patients history. I usually had a few of my H+P templates printed out to have on hand. Also, always keep pens + more pens on you! You may consider a colored pen or highlighter to keep your patient notes organized.

04. Your Tools

I always kept my stethoscope in my bag + my goggles (I love these affordable ones from Amazon!). Each rotation may require specialty-specific tools (i.e. reflex hammer for neurology, scrub cap for surgery).

05. A Sweatshirt

I learned this one the hard way too many times so I encourage you to not make the same mistake that I have! The hospital is cold – especially at night.

06. Laptop or iPad

This one is optional depending on the rotation. I would consider bringing my laptop or iPad, especially if I had a lot of downtime + could squeeze in some time to study.