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MODULE 7 - PROFESSIONALISM
Top 10 Ways to Demonstrate Professionalism
- Dress appropriately. Follow the established dress code and syllabi instructions.
- RVU Code of Conduct. Become familiar with and abide by the code of conduct as described in the RVU Handbook.
- Show up to class and your appointments on time. At RVU this means 5 minutes early.
- Treat others with respect. Address your faculty as “Doctor.” This includes personal conversations, e-mails, and when you pass them in the hallway. Treat other students as you would like to be treated.
- Honor the diversity in everyone. Respect and honor the differences between classmates. Keep your own biases in check and recognize the unique value of each individual.
- Online Professionalism. Follow the social media guidelines and recognize that you are leaving an electronic footprint when you are posting or making comments online. Do not use social media as your method of venting frustrations or attacking others.
- Have humility. Be willing to acknowledge your limitations and strive to learn from your mistakes. Don’t cover them up or think that you know more than you do.
- Follow established communication lines to voice concerns. Usually, this is with direct communication with the individual, or through your SGA or Class Council representative as appropriate.
- Accept help. Be willing to accept help when you need it, including accepting academic and mental support.
- Integrity and responsibility. Finally, you will need to abide by the highest standards of honesty and responsibility to succeed in life and as an osteopathic physician. Be totally engaged in the work of becoming a physician and don’t attempt to cut corners.
While one of the biggest challenges that medical students can face is simply passing their classes, another challenge for some medical students includes conduct and professionalism. One study shows that students with professionalism issues are three times as likely to face disciplinary action later in their careers as students without any issues. The MSPE (Dean's Letter) prepared by the University to support a student's residency application now includes a professionalism section.
REFLECTION QUESTION
Answer the following question in the comment section below before moving to the next module:
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
Take time to read and engage with your classmates' answers, as well! You can return to this page at any time to carry on the conversation.
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training? Professionalism is only going to help us in the future as we intend to be medical professionals and isn’t a skill that most people think of to focus on in their typical day to day. Including professionalism only sets us students up for success and by utilizing and practicing early will only improve us as future medical professionals.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?
Treating everyone with respect resonated with me because I feel like it can be easily forgotten especially when someone comes from a different background or has different beliefs. By respecting everyone as human individuals I think a lot of hate that is seen in society can be easily erased.
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
I first started to understand professionalism while working in a nursing home and continuing working in the medical field has shown me the importance and the difference professionalism can have on the community.
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?To be able to establish a level of expectation of all students coming in. There are many people coming in from various backgrounds and what one persons “professionalism” might be different for another. It is important that the expectations are started early so that a person has the ability to work and fine tune them over the next several years.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?There were two expectations that stood out for me. The first was to have humility. I have learned over many years to be humble. If not you will probably learn as it will come to bite you sooner or later. In a professional capacity this is even more important as we will come across many scenarios that will involve this trait. The second was asking for help. I find this is quite possibly the hardest thing personally for myself to do. I am a fixer by nature and it can be quite hard to accept the need to ask for help.
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
I was able to learn the idea of professionalism through my job. Being able to be around and communicate with people of all kinds from patients to providers. There is a certain standard and care that you learn to take regardless of who you are talking to.
1) Professionalism is included in our orientation training as a tool to develop skills to affirm a mutual respect to members of our community.
2) Honoring the diversity in everyone resonates with me since we all come from different journeys, acknowledging those differences in a meaningful way by listening to each other’s journeys can help make a positive impact.
3) My understanding of professionalism has developed from interacting with different community members through involvement in extracurricular activities but also through peers, professors, and campus staff.
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?I think professionalism was included in the training as this is the start of our medical journey, and we need to represent ourselves and the school in a professional manner. It also shows how much RVU puts an emphasis on professionalism, and I have already heard from other medical students at RVU that the way they dressed and held themselves landed them certain opportunities as they stood out in front of other medical students who did have the professionalism.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?Having humility resonated with me the most because it put an emphasis that it is okay to make mistakes and learn from them. I am taking this program to become a better student and one day a physician, and it is important to have humility and learn from the mistakes I make.
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
I was taught through sports to hold myself to a high degree of professionalism as you represent your family name and the school you are playing for.
WHY DO YOU THINK WE INCLUDE “PROFESSIONALISM” IN OUR ORIENTATION TRAINING?
Professionalism is very important in the healthcare field and is achieved when clear criteria are laid out. Talking about professionalism doing orientation will lead to it being carried out throughout our careers.
WHICH OF THE RVU EXPECTATIONS RESONATED WITH YOU AND WHY?
Arriving early is very important and shows that you really care. I think it is very important to never be late and always be on time.
HOW DID YOU DEVELOP THIS UNDERSTANDING FOR PROFESSIONALISM?
Working in the healthcare field has really given me an understanding of professionalism. I have worked closely with physicians and observing their example of professionalism has given me a greater understanding of it.
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?Professionalism is included in our orientation training and is expected to be maintained throughout the academic year because this helps us practice and improve on how we present ourselves, speak to peers and faculty, and reminds us that we also represent an institution. Being professional helps us remain respectful and polite which is also very important especially during stressful times.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?One of the RVU expectations that resonated the most with me was having humility. While it is very important to be an advocate for yourself, it is also great to show humility in knowing that this is a learning process. Striving for perfection or not showing humility can be portrayed as negative. It is very important to understand that mistakes can happen and accept that. The next step is having the courage to be honest with yourself and others and have the courage to seek assistance in something that may be stressful or difficult. I really feel that it is important to be honest with yourself and acknowledge that this is a learning process.
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
After having a previous career with research and research management, there were a few topics that I did not feel very comfortable with teaching to others. Rather than hiding my fear of not completely understanding the topic, I asked my supervisor and peers for help. With a quick tutorial, I felt more confident to teach others what was taught to me. This helped me with having humility and I hope to continue this on my professional journey.
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?Because it is imperative that we are professional with our peers, faculty and future patients. Every time we interact with someone we are not only representing ourselves but also the high standards of RVU.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?Show up to class and your appointments on time. At RVU this means 5 minutes early.
This resonated with me because I think it is very important to be on time and show respect for others by being on time and being ready for your appointment, class or whatever it may be.
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
I developed my understanding of professionalism while working in the medical field. I started out in the Operating Room and learned professionalism by being on time for work so I would be there to set up my room. Speaking to my patients, co workers and doctors with respect and addressing the doctors as “Doctor”. As well as having humility to learn from my mistakes and by being teachable.
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?
Being professional sets the standard on how we should conduct ourselves, not just in an academic setting but also casually. In my view, being professional means embodying a code of manners, behavioral standards and etiquette worthy of dignity and respect.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?
Having humility is essential in realizing your own limitations and bringing your ego down a notch. As new medical students, we must be acutely aware of what an honor it is to have this incredible opportunity. Therefore, we must be humble, respectful and open-minded about what is to come.
How did you develop this understanding of professionalism?
As a Peace Corps Volunteer working for 2.5 years in the jungles of Vanuatu, and in my previous career as a Construction Engineer – I’ve come to realize that the language of professionalism resonates across all cultures, languages and in all places. Being professional sends a signal of respect for the people around you – and will earn you respect if you show it to others.
I think that professionalism was included in the orientation because it is an important aspect to carry in one’s career and relationships. It is a representation of ourselves and our values. The expectation that resonated with me the most is humility. I think that is an aspect that can potentially go over looked as sometimes it can be difficult to be honest with yourself. I developed an understanding for professionalism through working as a medical assistant. The way I spoke and behaved was a reflection on myself as well as on the practice.
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?I think professionalism is included in our orientation training to expose us right away to what is expected of us from our time at RVU. The best time to start is early, so by having us include professionalism before we start classes, we start adapting to the standards we are expected to uphold early.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?I have always thought that when I dress my best, I perform my best, so abiding by a professional dress code resonated with me to maintain a professional mindset.
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
From when I worked as a barista, I learned that arriving on time is really important for not only serving customers, but also for helping out lessen my fellow coworkers’ workload. Dressing appropriately for work also matters so we don’t negatively affect the company’s image, as well as maintain a certain level of professionalism.
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
Professionalism is an important skill to develop because it’s something that will carry into our careers as physicians. We are held to a higher standard, and are expected to look and act a certain way in those professions. The training that we have now will be a great resource for us later on in life.
One of the professional expectations that resonated with me was humility. I have a great background working in the medical field and at times can be rather arrogant about it. One thing I hope to practice here is having humility to acknowledge my own limitations, and admit when I’m wrong. This is a skill that can carry throughout my life to always remind me that I am not better than anybody else. I just have different training and a different skill set. and then it should be used as a gift to help others.
My parents dedicate a lot of their time to helping us as kids develop a level of professionalism that is carried throughout our lives. I am always reminded of my dad‘s corrections or feedback when we were in public. As a businessman, he always told me that it’s important to show others respect if you want to receive the same respect. It is not only the way you dress but how to communicate with others.
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?
Professionalism is an important aspect in how we represent RVU and it is an integral piece for incoming students to be aware of and know what is expected of them.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?
The biggest RVU expectation that stood out to me was asking for help when needed. I feel that most of us believe we need to have it together but sometimes it is okay to ask for help.
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
I developed this understanding for professionalism from previously working alongside a doctor. Where I had to present myself in a well-dressed and appropriate manner to help patients.
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?The vulnerability that patients experience in the exam room requires careful and tactful strategies that are highly correlated to professionalism as shown in the study performed by Darmuth mentioned above. Fostering professionalism also increases trust among peers, and I believe is an essential skill for medical providers and students.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?Addressing professors as doctors resonates deeply knowing how far these individuals have come and how much they have sacrificed for their students to benefit from their wealth of knowledge–it is crucial to recognize their efforts and address them cordially according to their respective titles.
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
I attended a university with a dress code and honor code during my college years. I admit I wasn’t necessarily happy when asked to not wear shorts to school during the summer term. No one would penalize you for not adhering to the honor code. However, I one day found myself landing an internship because a mentor noticed that I took the dress code seriously. During my internship, I wore a tie and shirt every day. Eventually, I was hired by the company after the semester. My mentor perhaps didn’t know my true initial feelings, but my attitude towards professionalism changed rapidly once I learned the benefits outweighed my personal preferences.
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?
I think this is added to the orientation training because it helps sets boundaries and expectations for students in the program and school.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?
Dressing professionally resonates with me as it gives people a first impression.
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
I developed understanding for professionalism throughout the last few years in the different experiences that I’ve had.
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?The Professionalism standards set forth by the university need to be understood and followed by the students and staff. In order for that to be a reasonable goal, an early discussion and agreement of what those standards are and why we have them needs to be had. The sooner, the better, and there seems to be no better time than at orientation.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?As a habitually (over)punctual person, being 5 minutes early won’t be an issue. If anything, that just means I’ll be 5 minutes early to be 5 minutes early. But I also appreciate points 4 and 5. Treating others with respect and appreciating the value that everyone brings go hand in hand and are an excellent way to approach new groups of people and have opportunities to learn.
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?I have been fortunate to be a part of organizations within which operating standards such as appearance, customs, and courtesies play a very large role. It is from my time within those types or organizations that I have developed m own understanding of professionalism.
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?Professionalism is included because it sets a standard for how students should behave for ultimate success.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?Having humility resonated with me because making mistakes is a part of the process of learning. By accepting our limitations and learning about them, we allow ourselves to approach things differently and grow.
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
I was taught from an early age that the way we interact in different setting is a representation of who we are to that group. This ideology has been reinformed through my experience in schools, extracurriculars and as a healthcare worker.
WHY DO YOU THINK WE INCLUDE “PROFESSIONALISM” IN OUR ORIENTATION TRAINING?
Professionalism is a very important part of medicine and as stated above, it can also be a challenge for many incoming students. Therefore, RVU has decided to include professionalism in the orientation training to ensure we students are set up for success early on in our careers. Having professionalism instilled at the beginning of our medical school journey will make it much easier for us in the future no matter the situation we may find ourselves in.
WHICH OF THE RVU EXPECTATIONS RESONATED WITH YOU AND WHY?
All of the RVU expectations have resonated with me both on a personal and professional level as these were all values I grew up with and continue to uphold.
HOW DID YOU DEVELOP THIS UNDERSTANDING FOR PROFESSIONALISM?
I have worked in a clinical setting for many years and have seen great and poor professionalism in healthcare providers, staff, and patients. We all have a role to play to be as professional as we can be especially as students and providers since patients are coming to seek help and services.
Professionalism is included in orientation, because we are asked to be professional. Being professional will influence what people think of us, and this is the beginning of our career so it is time to act professional.
The expectation of asking for help stood out to me. I think this is something that is hard for a lot of people including me. I struggle with this so it is important to constantly be practicing. Especially in the medical field.
Through out my life I have been communicating and working on my professionalism. By being apart of different groups through sports, jobs, and a social setting I have learned how to ask professional. Being included in different groups have shown me different professional expectations
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?I think professionalism was included in orientation training because it is imperative that we act in a professional manner from the beginning of our careers here as we are constantly influencing peoples perceptions of us, our school and our profession as a whole.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?I think that having humility is an important method of demonstrating professionalism because it enables us as individuals to identify our weaknesses or limitations, express them and likely receive help from our peers or faculty to overcome them.
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
I think that my development of professionalism has been constantly developing over the course of my life as I have interacted with people from various professions, schools, and social settings. During these interactions I’ve come to identify the patterns of behavior that are consistent with how I would like people to perceive me and adapt them to my own life.
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training?How we speak, act, and present ourselves is a vital aspect in human relationships in our careers. Professionalism shows the other party that we are reliable, trustworthy, and approachable. It allows appropriate expectations to be upheld to create safe and proper boundaries between interactions.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why?Honoring the diversity in everyone resonates most because of my experiences as an Asian-American and my experience as a beginner in a field and starting at the bottom of a hierarchical system. We all come from different walks of life, and our experiences that have shaped our beliefs and concerns are all unique like how not one person’s fingerprint is the same.
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
My work experience in a clinical setting has added to my understanding for professionalism as I learned the boundaries of what is appropriate and proper professional speech, behavior, and dress. I am continuing to learn more as I read the expectations of being a student at RVU.
1) I think professionalism training is included because we are all pursuing careers in a field that requires professional behavior. The way we behave impact the relationships we form with others, which should be health and sturdy. 2) I really liked the expectation to ask for help when needed. I think this is something a lot of people (including myself) can struggle with. I like being in an environment that encourages asking for help because I think that is one of the best ways to learn and grow. 3) I developed my understanding of professionalism more by reading about RVU expectations. I particularly developed my sense of the different types of professionalism based on setting you are in (e.g online versus in- person).
Why do you think we include “professionalism” in our orientation training? I believe that professionalism is included in orientation as many do not know what professionalism entails. For those that have not worked in professional fields before, which is most new students, business casual can mean many different things.
Which of the RVU expectations resonated with you and why? The RVU expectation of accepting help resonated with me as I often struggle to ask for help in an attempt not to bother others. However, now knowing that it is an expectation, I feel more inclined to ask for help.
How did you develop this understanding for professionalism?
I developed an understanding for professionalism by working in the medical field. Although I wore scrubs every day, I still had to present myself and speak professionally. The dress code guidelines in this training helped me understand what to wear to class.