Powers That Be (the PTBs) want their medical students to be able to play well with their future colleagues.
I've talked about professionalism before.
There was too much to cover in one post, so I'm adding some more thoughts here.
1. Conferences: Students should really go to as many conferences as they can. These are fantastic places to learn how your (potential) colleagues perform in the future. To see what is actually important to them and what daily practice can be like. They are also where you can learn what is important in research if the specialty isn't all about the Twitterverse. But they should be. Talk them into making that happen while you are at the conference. Also, look around. What do you think about this group of people? Can you see yourself working with them in the future? Going out for a few beers? Is this the specialty for you?
2. Business Cards: Get business cards made. Hand them out. You want to give them to people you want to do research with, want to have elective time with, etc. Seriously. Get it done. They're dead cheap. Put your photo on it to ensure the peeps you share them with will remember who you are.
3. Committees: Sometimes annoying, sometimes difficult to deal with, but so important to learn how to deal with this kind of interaction with colleagues. Sitting on committees will teach you how to follow Robert's Rules that you will need to follow as you move through your career. It also allows you to stand up for what you think is right while you are still protected as being "just a student". Learning how to make a point so that others understand is not something that comes easily. It's worth having some practice. These skills work when you are talking to other specialties, asking administration for resources for your patients. It also teaches you when to shut up and trust your colleagues to do what's right.
4. Counselling: Everyone in medicine needs a counsellor. Trust me. Get one.
