Maxine
Chan
Maxine  Chan
Senior Assistant Resident, Med-Peds
House Staff

Start Year: 2020

Basics

Hometown
Edison, NJ

Where did you attend university/college?
Cornell University

Where did you attend medical school?
Rutgers NJMS

What are your career goals?
In true Med-Peds fashion, I don't have my heart set on anything just yet, but I'd love to work in academic medicine and do some teaching!

"From the top down, Duke has built a program that values their trainees and puts a premium on their growth, education, and well-being."

-Maxine Chan

Reflections on the Duke Program

What were you looking for in a residency program?
I was looking for a hospital system that took care of a diverse patient population, not just as inpatients, but also in their clinics. I also wanted a program with a strong focus on academics, and perhaps more importantly for a dual trainee, one where I felt at home with the programs on both sides.

What are the strengths of the Duke Program?
Unequivocally, the people. From the top down, Duke has built a program that values their trainees and puts a premium on their growth, education, and well-being.

What are your observations about the relationships between faculty and house staff?
The faculty are sincerely invested in educating the house staff, and know when to step back to allow you to think for yourself, or step in when you need a hand.

Tell us about your co-residents. What has helped you connect, support each other, and form friendships?
I couldn't imagine going through residency without this talented and supportive group of ladies! As a Med-Peds resident, the fact that our program is small allows us to get to know one another well and very quickly, and it has been amazing to see everyone get off to a fantastic start!

About Duke University and Durham

What has surprised you most about Duke?
The support network. I didn't have any preconceived notions about what that would be like before residency started, but I have continued to be impressed by how willing people are at a moment's notice to help you and check in on you when you're struggling.

 What is the best thing about living in Durham and the Triangle?
I'm still new here, so check back with me in a few months, but I've noticed that there's a little bit of everything for everyone. Like musical theater? Check, the DPAC. Like homemade ice cream? Check, Maple View Farms. Sports? Nature? Delicious food? There's all that too.

Where did you choose to live and why?
I live Downtown in the warehouse district, which I think strikes a nice balance by being close to the heart of the city, but also near enough to the hospital for a nice commute.

What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Durham?
Start looking early whether you're buying or renting, and don't be afraid to reach out to a bunch of places that interest you!

What are your interests outside of medicine?
Musical theater, trivia, half hour sitcoms, cooking, crossword puzzles, planning road trips.

House Staff