Your first day at work isn’t just about showing up, it’s about trying to be ready to face different and new situations. From personal comfort items to clinical tools and you need some mental preparation too. I am curious - whether you are in a hospital ward, dental clinic, biotech lab, or pharmacy, what’s on your first day checklist? Share your must haves or must do! 
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For my first day as a surgery intern, I’d carry scrubs, a good pen, a notepad, my stethoscope, a surgical cap, some energy snacks, a water bottle, and most importantly loads of patience.
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The loads of patience part is so true because everything will feel new and a bit overwhelming. A positive attitude and patience will help you adapt.
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For me, it was my very first day in the lab before starting my doctoral degree. I walked in with a mix of excitement and curiosity. I already had my research topic in mind, and the day before I had gone through a few journal articles related to my doctoral topic towards the preparation for any discussion with my guide. Other parts of my checklist for that day included a professional get-up, a confident attitude, an open mind, and a warm smile to connect with lab mates and other lab members including the technicians. It was a day of setting up my workspace, meeting my guide and other faculty members of the department, learning where everything (reagents and chemicals) is stored inside the lab, and getting familiar with the safety rules to be followed. I left that day with my head full of ideas and my heart filled with colossal motivation ready to begin a journey I had dreamt of long ago.
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A pen (or maybe extra pens just in case we lose one), a tiny notebook, white robe, stethoscope, hair cap(and extra one) , a mask, a water bottle…. A snack bar (just in case we feel hungry) , sanitizer spray, and curiousity to learn 
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Excitement and nervousness along with the documents required, pen, notebook, water bottle.
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This sounds like a wonderful experience. I am glad you had prepared yourself and your first day was great.
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Curiosity , excitement and patience to learn from other and essential documents that is required
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Well said , curiosity to learn is so important. We know that work will get monotonous at a point but your drive to keep learning new things makes the process better.
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A small notepad and a pen are something u carry anywhere at a new job I guess. Lots of new information might be overwhelming and it will be great to note it down properly. And you should also carry an eager mind to learn and an attention to detail.
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Excitement and nervousness in my first day kit along with that a pen and a note book
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A small notepad is helpful to stay in track and have a look at all the pending work. Thanks for mentioning it
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My first was kind of observation .
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A pen, a notebook, a white coat, mask, a water bottle and the mixed feeling of excitement, curiosity and nervousness for the new beginning.
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Excitement , nervousness with a note book and a pen .
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First day checklist for me starts with confidence and curiosity. I’d carry a notebook, pen, water bottle, and maybe a small snack. Mentally, I remind myself to stay calm and observe more. I’d try to understand the workflow, respect the team, and ask questions when needed. Whether it’s a pharmacy or lab, being open to learning is the key.
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On my first day of my office, I’d kept it simple but prepared ,a notebook and pen for quick notes, a water bottle, some snacks for energy, and documents. Mentally, I’d remind myself to stay calm, observe properly ,and be open to learning.
Whether it’s a hospital, lab, or clinic, I believe a curious mind and a positive attitude are just as important as the tools you carry.
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My first day checklist would be confidence and happiness. I would carry some snacks ,writing stuff,water bottle and lunch box.
Mentally I would be nervous because it will be new surroundings to me,I will try to fit in with ASAP!
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Mine included a notebook & pen for quick notes, comfortable shoes, snacks for the long day, a water bottle, and lots of patience. Most importantly, a ready-to-learn mindset and empathy for every patient I meet.
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My first day as a Lecturer was full of excitement and little nervousness.
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