Gloria Zhang, MD
Orthopaedic Surgery Resident, PGY3
NYU Langone Health
New York, NY
Member Since: 2022
How has the AAOS helped you during residency?
Residency can feel very local and service-heavy at times, so AAOS has been valuable in helping me stay connected to the bigger picture of orthopaedics — education, innovation, advocacy, and mentorship. This year, I had the opportunity to serve as a member on the AAOS Resident Health Policy Committee, which connected to me amazing residents across the country similarly interested in policy changes.
As a Resident Member, which AAOS resources do you use most and why?
I use AAOS ResStudy questions the most during OITE preparation because they mirror the way attendings think through problems clinically. I also regularly use OrthoInfo and clinical practice guidelines as quick references when preparing for cases or teaching juniors.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
One of my seniors told me before graduating that I should, “Look up more. Worry a little less.” It sounds simple, but it completely changed how I approached residency and reminded me not to miss the good parts while constantly thinking about the next thing. Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in the stress and forget that residency is also something special.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
My go-to productivity trick is changing my environment intentionally. If I stay at home after a long day, I’m much less productive, so I’ll often go straight to the hospital library to reset and focus. Luckily in New York, we are blessed with some beautiful and historic libraries that I get to explore.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
I’m trying to become more intentional about mentorship — both seeking it out and paying it forward to junior residents and students. Some of the most meaningful moments in residency for me have been when senior residents or attendings took the time to teach, encourage, or simply check in during difficult rotations, and I’ve realized how much those small interactions shape training culture.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
Outside the hospital, I love trying new bakeries, studying to become an entry-level wine sommelier, and long walks around New York with a podcast. I’m also a surprisingly enthusiastic schedule-maker.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
I’ve traveled to 53 countries and have realized that some of my favorite memories come from the smallest moments — finding a neighborhood bakery, wandering through local markets, or talking to people over coffee. It’s probably why I’m always planning my next trip.