April 2024
Christy Peterson, Chief
Now that chief year is coming to an end, what are a few words you would use to describe your experience?
Residency has probably been the most exhausting, rewarding, challenging, but memorable 5 years of my life.
What will you miss most?
I don't think I could've survived residency if it weren't for the support of my co-residents and attendings. The relationships I've built will be the thing I miss the most. I wish I could transplant everyone to Topeka, Kansas... that would be best case scenario.
During your last interview spotlight you said if you won the lottery you would buy a big spaceship massage chair, well now that attending life is in the horizon, the people are dying to know if you have your spaceship pre-ordered?
I'm waiting to pick out my spaceship chair until I have a house. Obviously need to make sure it fits well with the ambiance of my relaxation room. Just joking, but I did panic purchase a really nice foot massager part-way through second year, which I am forever grateful for.
Any fun travel plans post residency pre work?
Logan and I are thinking about a trip to Europe, specifically Italy. After watching White Lotus, we have been dying to explore Lake Como. We would also like to take a trip to California (Sonoma or Napa) to pick out some wine for our new home.
Do you think Taylor and Travis are for real or is it all PR?
I would REALLY like to think it's for real... otherwise there's been a ton of hype all for nothing. I can't imagine how athletic and cool a Swift-Kelce baby would be. Maybe my future children and theirs could be friends...
What was your favorite urology case going into residency? Is it still the same, if not what did it change to?
Believe it or not, my favorite case coming into residency was a RALP. Five years later, I would say that is still at the top, albeit for different reasons. I am really looking forward to the VA to perfect my skills during a RALP, with hopes that this can be a significant part of my practice.
What are you most looking forward to about your new job?
I am MOST looking forward to building a team that I get to work with for a long period of time. I am so thankful for the nurses, scrubs, MAs, APPs, and physicians I've worked with for 5 years, and I hope I get to build the same relationships with the team in Topeka. That is what makes our jobs so enjoyable.
What advice would you give to the brand new interns about the next 5 years?
Enjoy the ride, find your people, ask for help if you need it, but don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Vandy Urology is a place where you get to learn by doing, in a controlled environment. Make the most of your time here, because, man, it goes fast. It's easy to get lost in the weeds of the work and exhaustion at times, but don't forget you are surrounded by the top of the top urologists in the world. Take advantage.
Do you plan to come back for Rhammey Shelly if able?
Absolutely! I look forward to sitting in the back of the room and seeing all of the residents' hard work. Also look forward to an excuse to get back on Broadway. Did someone say The Stage?
What is your favorite OR memory over the past 5 years?
I have a hard time picking a specific memory. In general, I'd say my favorite part of the Vandy ORs would be walking into the room, saying hi to the circulator, scrub, first assist, c-arm tech, attending, anesthesia resident, and anesthesiologist.. all of whom I know well and feel comfortable with. It makes for SUCH a great learning environment. These people have kept me grounded for 5 years and helped me become who I am today (in and out of the OR).
What is your favorite social memory over the past 5 years?
This would probably have to be Jackson's surprise 30th birthday party. He walked in, we all shouted surprise, and he literally dropped to the ground out of shock. It was such a happy day.
What was your favorite cafeteria line at VUMC?
This probably makes me a little weird, but I can't get enough of our salad bar line. Although, the price has increased significantly over the last 5 years. 10$ for a salad is hefty, but man the honey mustard dressing and pickled beets are GOOD.
Will you miss being a sips club member?
To be honest, I may feel some relief without the Sips Club Membership. I always feel pressure to make good use of the membership; I can't let my mom (the accountant) down by wasting money.
What are some things on your Nashville bucket list you want to cross off before moving?
Great question. My bucket list mostly consists of eating good food, drinking good drinks, and spending as much time with my friends as I can. I try not to think about how much I'll miss this place.
What is your favorite Nashville restaurant?
Butcher and Bee is a great go-to. Logan and I also LOVE Athen's Family Restaurant, a delicious mediterranean place near Belmont. Meredith Donahue also made me a lover of Embers in 12 South – best Happy Hour in Nashville.
If you could describe Vandy urology residency in 3 words which ones would you pick?
Challenging, elite, supportive
Favorite holiday party from residency over the years?
I thiiiink it was the Penson Holiday party, when Craig showed up a bit late, but really couldn't say enough nice things about how soft Dr. Penson's carpet was.
Favorite sporting event you went to over past 5 years?
Any sporting event I could live bet at and have a cold beer.
Best concert over past 5 years?
Best Nashville concert? Probably Kasey Musgraves (x2). It is such an inclusive show with so much energy. Best concert during the last five years? Hands down, Taylor Swift in Tampa with Marybeth Hall.
What will you miss most about Nashville?
The variety of food and activities. It's pretty incredible to drive 7 minutes and be on Broadway or walking into a Predators game. That is something I've taken for granted.
What are you most excited about for moving home?
Spending time with family. Every year for the last 5 years, I've missed birthday celebrations, random weekend family dinners in Lindsborg, and my nephew's soccer/baseball games. I am ecstatic to be back home. About three years ago, I told Slater (my nephew), Logan and I would live with him before he turned six. He has not forgotten and reminds me frequently that his 6th birthday is coming up... and we will be there.