During the fall, first-year pediatric residents spend time away from the hospital and clinical responsibilities at a two-day intern retreat. This informal event is held at Pere Marquette State Park on the Mississippi River in Illinois.

The retreat is an opportunity for PL-1s to relax and get to know each other better. Through interactive methods, and led by an independent facilitator, the residents work on team-building and interpersonal skills vital to a successful career in medicine. Discussion groups explore such issues as personal work styles, conflict resolution, experiencing critical events and stress management. The retreat is fashioned to aid the resident in assessing personal and professional goals and to provide a supportive environment for discussion and exploration of these goals.

The main objectives of the intern retreat are fostering support and camaraderie among peers; enhancing interpersonal, communication and stress management skills; and developing an appreciation of and respect for diversity among colleagues.

Free time is built into the schedule for swimming, hiking and exploring the park. Large limestone bluffs overlooking the mighty Mississippi are superb locations for eagle watching or simply enjoying the fall colors.

During the fall, first-year pediatric residents spend time away from the hospital and clinical responsibilities at a two-day intern retreat. This informal event is held at Pere Marquette State Park on the Mississippi River in Illinois.

The retreat is an opportunity for PL-1s to relax and get to know each other better. Through interactive methods, and led by an independent facilitator, the residents work on team-building and interpersonal skills vital to a successful career in medicine. Discussion groups explore such issues as personal work styles, conflict resolution, experiencing critical events and stress management. The retreat is fashioned to aid the resident in assessing personal and professional goals and to provide a supportive environment for discussion and exploration of these goals.

The main objectives of the intern retreat are fostering support and camaraderie among peers; enhancing interpersonal, communication and stress management skills; and developing an appreciation of and respect for diversity among colleagues.

Free time is built into the schedule for swimming, hiking and exploring the park. Large limestone bluffs overlooking the mighty Mississippi are superb locations for eagle watching or simply enjoying the fall colors.