University of California San Francisco
UCSF School of Medicine UCSF Medical Center

Ask Andy

Ask Andy: A resident-to-resident column about training, growth, and the questions we're all exploring. By Andy Y. Wang, MD

Question: "Who's Andy?"

When the GME team first reached out to ask whether I would be interested in writing an "Ask Andy" column for fellow trainees, I was hesitant. What exactly could I offer? I am surrounded by so many extraordinary co-residents at UCSF, people whose intelligence and clinical acumen continually impress me, whose research pushes the boundaries of their fields, and whose character and empathy shape the way they care for patients.

The idea of positioning myself as someone with “advice” felt uncomfortable.

But, perhaps, if I do not have sage wisdom to dispense, I can at least offer something more honest: reflections from someone still very much in the process of becoming a better resident, a better physician, a better colleague.

So, who’s Andy?

I am currently a third-year neurology resident at UCSF. We may have crossed paths, perhaps with me as a (hopefully) friendly consultant, or as someone reaching out for your expertise.

I was born in Taiwan before my parents whisked our family away to Canada in search of opportunity. I spent my early years in that snowy wonderland before we eventually returned to Taiwan, where I found myself navigating life as a third-culture kid, reconnecting with an identity that was supposed to feel familiar but initially felt foreign. Over time, I rediscovered my roots and even picked up enough Mandarin to become certified to use with patients.

After that, I spent a formative and fantastic decade in Boston for college and medical school before finally making my way west to UCSF.

This year, I had the privilege of helping with our department’s residency recruitment efforts as one of the chiefs. Sitting on the other side of the table was eye-opening. The applicants were energizing, their accomplishments staggering, and their aspirations bold.

More than once, I caught myself thinking: How did I ever manage to match here?

Applicants asked many of the same questions I once asked:

  • What is the culture like?
  • Will I find mentorship?
  • Will I belong here?

This interview season reminded me of why I love being at UCSF. This is a place of growth and belonging--somewhere you truly could stay forever.

Match Day is quickly approaching on March 20. I am so excited to see where this year’s applicants land, and I hope many will choose to join us here at UCSF. Please reach out and welcome our incoming colleagues into this community that has been such an important part of our lives.

As we begin this column, I would love to hear from you.

  • What questions do you have?
  • What challenges are you navigating?
  • What topics would be helpful to explore together?

If this column becomes anything worthwhile, I hope it will not be because one resident has all the answers, but, rather, because we are all in the process of becoming better together.

Looking forward to the conversation.

Andy