I was clearly a new face, and many members and staff made it a point to introduce themselves. This society, like many others, invites all new members for a formal introduction at a meeting later in the year. There are several ways to get involved, and any level of participation can make an impact. The simplest but least proactive is payment of dues. With this you can receive benefits and be counted on the membership rolls.
More members means more clout when working with our legislators.
Serving on a committee is even more beneficial. Most societies have an array of committees, and at least one of them is bound to strike an area of your personal interest. It is helpful to speak with an officer of the society to get information on which committee might need your particular talents. It is very easy to jump back into organized medicine after residency. For those who have never formally participated, the immediate postresidency period is an ideal time to get involved.