Congratulations. Med school is finally in the past. You graduated with an MD and you’re ready for the next step: residency.

After medical school, the average graduate spends two to eight years in residency. This is the time to further your training and eventually become licensed to practice. Now that you’ve chosen your specialty, here are some tips to get you through your postgraduate study.

If you’re not sure about something, ask for help. One person can’t know everything and you don’t want to make a mistake. Take the time to ask for a second opinion.

Have a good attitude. Working in the medical field is a high stress environment. Certain things have to be done immediately and snapping at other people adds to the tension. Everyone involved understands the urgency of their jobs, so try to add some calmness to the atmosphere.

Appreciate how the whole engine operates. You’re not the only one working. You need the help of nurses, radiologists, surgeons, and many more people to get you through the day. You have to work with many different departments so be appreciative and respectful. It will help things to run smoothly.

Work hard. Make sure you’re giving your patients the best you can offer. You’ll be gaining many experiences to fall back on later in your career. Learn ways to communicate effectively with your patients in all situations.

On a very practical note, don’t forget to eat, drink, and rest. Although you’re taking care of the health of your patients, don’t push aside your own. You will be more productive and have more stamina if you take the time to grab a snack or take a catnap. Take your own advice and live a healthy life with nutritious food and plenty of exercise.

Cultivate positive relationships with people around you. Yes, this is networking and it can be essential to your career. Think about life after residency and where you want to end up. Other people can give you great advice on ways to achieve your career goals.

Keep those goals in mind. Do you want to go into academia, be a salaried doctor, open your own private practice, or go into research? There are still many options open to you. Figure out what you think is best for you. It’s your own thoughts that matter.