Match Day Is Over—Now What? Your Residency Survival Guide for PGY-1 Success

Match Day is behind you, and the excitement of seeing your name next to your residency program has finally sunk in. But as the celebration fades, reality sets in: intern year is coming, and it’s unlike anything you’ve experienced before.

match day survival guide

Whether you’re moving across the country or staying in your home city, your PGY-1 year will test your endurance, adaptability, and mindset. This isn’t just about long hours and late nights—it’s about navigating a new identity, managing high expectations, and learning how to thrive in medicine’s most demanding training phase.

This guide delivers actionable PGY-1 advice for new residents to help you succeed physically, emotionally, financially, and professionally—because surviving intern year isn’t the goal. Thriving is.

What to Expect in Your PGY-1 Year

  • Long shifts, variable schedules, and overnight call

  • Steep learning curves as you adjust to EMRs, hospital protocols, and clinical autonomy

  • Performance pressure from peers, preceptors, and patients

  • Emotional whiplash from high-acuity cases and ethical dilemmas

Most new residents describe PGY-1 as the most intense year of their life—but also one of the most formative. With preparation and support, you can navigate it with confidence.

Prepare Logistically Before Day One

Before orientation, you’ll want to tackle the basics:

Organize Housing and Transportation

Secure a safe, convenient living situation near your hospital. Prioritize quiet, easy commutes and proximity to support networks if possible.

Finalize Licensure and Credentialing

Submit all required documents (medical license, DEA number, ACLS certification) early to avoid delays.

Budget for Relocation

Moving costs, new workwear, and downtime before your first paycheck can hit hard. Create a budget and consider using relocation stipends wisely.

Get Financially Grounded

Intern year is a great time to establish smart financial habits:

Set Up Direct Deposit and Emergency Savings

Automate your savings—even if it’s just $100/month—to create financial cushion.

Know Your Loan Repayment Options

Understand the difference between Income-Driven Repayment (IDR), Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), and refinancing. Consider tools like:

  • StudentLoanPlanner.com

  • AAMC Loan Repayment Calculator

Use Free or Discounted Resident Resources

Take advantage of:

  • Free UpToDate or Epocrates access

  • Institutional meal plans or wellness stipends

  • Student/resident discounts on medical apps and gym memberships

Use the Right Productivity Tools

Efficiency is everything in PGY-1. These resident-friendly apps can help you stay organized and sane:

App Use Case
Notion Task management and rotation tracking
Anki Spaced repetition flashcards for quick learning
Figure 1 Crowd-sourced case photos and learning
Calm or Headspace Meditation for stress relief
Read by QxMD Personalized medical literature updates
Shift Scheduler apps (Amion, When I Work) Keep your call calendar accessible and synced

Protect Your Mental Health

Intern year burnout is real—and taking care of your emotional wellbeing is non-negotiable.

Normalize Struggle

You’re not supposed to know everything yet. Give yourself grace and seek feedback constructively.

Seek Support Early

Utilize peer support, resident wellness programs, or your institution’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Don’t wait for crisis to act.

Make Time for Non-Medicine

Carve out time weekly—even just 1 hour—for something you love: music, hiking, cooking, journaling. It protects your identity and resilience.

Build Relationships (Yes, Even When You're Exhausted)

Residency is tough, but you’re not in it alone. Build professional and personal support systems:

  • Connect with senior residents who’ve walked the same path

  • Foster relationships with attendings who may become mentors

  • Lean on co-interns—they’ll become your biggest allies

  • Keep in touch with non-medical friends to stay grounded

Residency is also a time to grow your network. Say yes to educational events, journal clubs, or casual happy hours when you can—without overcommitting.

Embrace the Learning Mindset

You’ll feel like you’re drowning in new information at times. That’s okay.

Reflect Often

Keep a journal or voice memo log. It helps you track growth and process emotionally difficult experiences.

Ask Questions Relentlessly

Learning doesn’t make you look weak—it shows you're invested in being a safe, thoughtful physician.

Remember: PGY-1 Is a Foundation

You won’t be perfect. Your job is to show up, do your best, and commit to the process. Growth will come with time and repetition.

Final Thought: You Belong Here

Imposter syndrome is common in residency—especially during PGY-1. But remember: you matched for a reason. You are needed, valued, and capable.

Residency isn’t just about learning medicine—it’s about learning yourself. You’ll grow in ways that redefine what strength, empathy, and excellence look like.

So take a deep breath. Organize your shift calendar. Find your people. And start strong. You've got this.

Want Help Finding the Right Opportunity After Residency?

PracticeMatch offers free career planning tools, salary data, and access to job openings tailored for residents and fellows. Create a profile, browse top employers, and get matched with jobs that fit your goals.

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Madison Tarrant

Madison Tarrant - Director of Career Fair Operations. You can stay connected with me on LinkedIn for all of the latest PracticeMatch articles and upcoming events.