Hometown: Simi Valley, CA
Name of Undergraduate Institution: Yale University
Major(s)/Minor(s) in College: Psychology (With a Neuroscience Focus)
Name of Medical School: New York Medical College
Residency Program: Temple University Hospital (Orthopedic Surgery)
Favorite Quote: “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” – Nelson Mandela
Contact Info: temidayo.aderibigbe@gmail.com
Additional Links:
Instagram: @taderibigbe
Where are you currently at in your career path and why did you decide to pursue this career path?
I recently graduated from medical school and am currently in my first year of Orthopedic Surgery residency at Temple University Hospital. I knew that I wanted to do Orthopedics fairly early into my first year after some experiences working with the musculoskeletal system in the anatomy lab. I love the physical aspect of the work and how much you’re able to see your patients improve. As an active person who has had his own experience with limitations brought on by orthopedic injuries, I’ve always been drawn to the work that orthopedics does to help people regain their functionality, mobility, and quality of life.
If you could go back and have a chat with your 1st year postgraduate self, what would you tell him?
Firstly, I would stress the importance of not doubting oneself. Imposter syndrome is a real thing but it’s important to remember that you’ve made it to this stage because you’re supposed to be here and because you have proven it to at least someone that you belong here, even if you don’t necessarily feel like you do. Secondly, don’t be too proud or afraid to ask for help.
What advice would you give to a medical student looking to pursue a similar path as yours?
My best advice is that if Orthopedics is something that you’re interested, start finding ways to get exposure to the field early and get involved with the service at your home program. Try to find a mentor early to help you navigate the application process. It’s an especially competitive field so I would look at what the common requirements are for orthopedic surgery applicants and be proactive about making sure that you’re checking the important boxes as you progress through medical school.
What advice would you give to someone getting ready to start their application process to residency?
Find ways to set yourself apart from the rest. Every item that you put in your application is an opportunity to tell a program something new and unique about yourself. The reality is that programs will often be reading through so many applications that sound the same so find ways to make your application stand out. When it comes time to interview, make sure that you know every detail about every experience that you put in your application, because any question is fair game.
What is your favorite thing about your job?
My favorite thing about my job is that ultimately at the core of everything that we do, we are working to help people.
What do you feel makes your specialty stand out from other specialties?
Orthopedic surgery consistently tops the rankings for physician job satisfaction. Every orthopedic surgeon that I’ve ever spoken has further ignited my interest by telling me how much they love their work.
Do you have any passions outside of treating patients? If so, what are they and how do you find time to pursue these passions?
Travel, Soccer, Food, Music, Guitar, Working out. You make time for the things that matter to you!
In an alternate universe, what career do you think you would be in right now if healthcare wasn’t an option for you?
Some type of music curator.
Thank you for sharing all of this great advice with us and allowing us to learn from some of your personal experiences Temi! You are very much appreciated! It is awesome to hear how much you love the specialty that you are training in, and we wish you nothing but good fortunes as you continue to train to become a board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon!
Health Career Spotlights Home Page
Posted on April 21st, 2021