Resident Life
Life as an Emergency Medicine resident at UTHSC is fast-paced, team-oriented, and deeply rewarding. Our residents train in some of the busiest and most diverse emergency departments in the region, caring for patients with a wide range of medical, surgical, and trauma needs. But just as importantly, they build strong friendships, support one another through challenging shifts, and enjoy a vibrant life outside the hospital.
The culture of our program is grounded in camaraderie, resilience, and shared purpose. Residents learn together, grow together, and celebrate together — forming a community that feels like family.
A Culture of Teamwork and Support
Emergency Medicine thrives on teamwork, and our residency reflects that spirit. From the first day of intern year, residents are welcomed into a close-knit group that values collaboration, communication, and mutual respect.
You’ll find:
- Co-residents who have your back on the toughest nights
- Faculty who are approachable, invested, and passionate about teaching
- A supportive environment where questions are encouraged
- A culture that values wellness, balance, and personal growth
Residents consistently describe the program as a place where they feel supported, challenged, and empowered.
Training in High-Acuity, High-Volume Settings
Residents rotate through multiple clinical sites, including:
- Regional One Health – Level I Trauma Center and the region’s busiest emergency department
- Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital – pediatric emergency medicine
- Baptist Memorial Hospital – emergency care
- Methodist University Hospital – additional exposure to complex medical emergencies
These diverse training environments ensure residents gain experience with trauma, critical care, pediatrics, toxicology, ultrasound, and the full spectrum of emergency presentations.
A Day (or Night) in the Life
Emergency Medicine is anything but predictable — and that’s part of what residents love. A typical shift may include:
- Managing trauma activations
- Caring for critically ill medical patients
- Performing procedures such as intubations, central lines, and ultrasound-guided interventions
- Collaborating with specialists across the hospital
- Teaching medical students and rotating residents
- Debriefing with the team after challenging cases
Shifts are busy, but residents support one another and maintain a strong sense of camaraderie throughout.
Wellness, Balance, and Life Outside the ED
Wellness is a priority in our program. Residents benefit from:
- A schedule designed to support rest and recovery
- Protected wellness activities throughout the year
- Access to UTHSC wellness resources and counseling services
- A culture that encourages taking time for yourself and your family
Outside of work, residents enjoy exploring Memphis — from live music and food festivals to outdoor activities at Shelby Farms Park and the Mississippi Riverfront. Many residents live close to their training sites, making it easy to enjoy downtime.
Social Events, Traditions & Community
Throughout the year, residents participate in:
- Welcome events for new interns
- Holiday gatherings and themed parties
- Graduation celebrations
- Team dinners after tough shifts
- Resident retreats focused on wellness and team building
- Journal clubs held at local restaurants or faculty homes
These events strengthen the sense of community and create memories that last long after residency.
Mentorship & Professional Development
Residents receive individualized mentorship from faculty with expertise across all areas of Emergency Medicine. Mentorship includes:
- Career planning and fellowship guidance
- Research support and project development
- Ultrasound, simulation, and procedural training
- Leadership development and teaching opportunities
Graduates pursue careers in academic medicine, community practice, EMS, critical care, ultrasound, and more.
Why Residents Love Training Here
Residents consistently highlight:
- The high-acuity clinical experience
- The supportive, team-oriented culture
- The approachable, dedicated faculty
- The strong procedural training
- The balance between work and life
- The affordability and energy of Memphis
The UTHSC Emergency Medicine Residency is a place where residents grow into confident, compassionate emergency physicians while building lifelong friendships and professional connections.
