Denise E. Smith, M.D. M.S.
Orthopaedic Surgery Resident Physician
Duke University Hospital
Durham, NC
Member Since: 2021
How has the AAOS helped you during residency?
AAOS has helped me during residency by offering study and clinical resources that I refer to daily as well as keeping me up to date with relevant practice guidelines and policies that affect how we treat our patients.
As a Resident Member, which AAOS resources do you use most and why?
I have recently started using the AAOS ROCK (Resident Orthopaedic Core Knowledge) and have really enjoyed the ease of learning it offers. It can be tough to consolidate the most important information, but this resource is great for casual studying or when looking for treatment options while on call. As a rising PGY4, I have prioritized this resource to supplement my boards studying.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
The best advice I was ever given was from my grandmother who was always a HUGE advocate for higher education. She told me “If you’ve done your best, the angels can’t do better.” She always told me to give myself grace and if I know I’ve tried my hardest in any task, take pride in my efforts and know nothing else can be done.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
My go-to productivity trick is my planner. I’ve used a planner since high school to keep track of everything I have coming up and projects/assignments that I need to get done. It is also helpful with keeping track of presentations, conferences, or travel and allows me to effectively plan my life outside of the hospital. I also frequently take breaks. During a busy day at the hospital or busy weekend of admin work, I will schedule small breaks for physical activity, calling family, or to just relax to keep me going!
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
I am currently trying to make a habit of getting back to cooking. I have always enjoyed making home-cooked meals and have fallen behind in residency. I have recently made cooking and meal prepping a priority as I always take pride in a great meal and feeding my loved ones.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
I really enjoy cooking, attending concerts, trying new restaurants, LOVE going to the movies, lifting weights, and traveling.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
A fun fact about me is that I was the first All-American women’s hammer thrower to compete for Louisiana State University Track & Field.