I think we can all agree that our most exciting update is our intern class! Our new group joins us from all across the country, from Texas to Hawaii, with a diverse mix of backgrounds. As a new intern and former student at FSU’s Sarasota campus, I have been lucky enough to watch the program grow from its inception. I remember attending the program’s very first Wednesday conference as a student and being so impressed with the quality of the residents and of the educational sessions, which have continued to improve over time.

Along with being the second class at FSU Sarasota’s EM residency program, the class of 2023 will also be remembered for beginning residency during a historic worldwide pandemic. Although we have all had our graduations, match ceremonies and other celebrations canceled, our program leadership has been as enthusiastic as ever in making us feel welcome and supported. With the overall number of active COVID cases in Florida and Sarasota County dropping, we are finally starting to feel a new sense of normalcy. As a program, we have found ways to responsibly gather by taking advantage of the outdoors at our world-renowned Siesta Key Beach. Most importantly, as of this writing, we do not know of anyone in our program that has tested positive. For that and so much more, we feel lucky and are cherishing the opportunity to serve our community while learning from the many lessons the pandemic has given us.

Finally, we are looking forward to the upcoming virtual application season. We normally love showing off our beautiful hospital, weather and city, but we are also excited about our latest digital recruiting projects. We are expanding our social media efforts, building a new website, creating a virtual tour, and are actively involved in recruiting events including the EMRA Residency Fair. Wishing good luck to all the programs and applicants during this unique and unprecedented application cycle! ■