Each of you comes here today a hopeful. Wanting in on the game. A month ago you were in med school being taught by doctors.

Today, you are the doctors. The seven years you spend here as a surgical resident will be the best and worst of your life. You will be pushed to the breaking point.

Look around you. Say hello to your competition. Eight of you will switch to an easier specialty.

Five of you will crack under the pressure and two of your will be asked to leave. This is your starting line.

This is your arena. How well you play? That’s up to you.