A resident starts at $62k annually at UPMC. They are protected from working more than 80 hours averaged over a 4 week period*. If a resident were to work 80 hrs per week, they make $14.90/hour. I can think of a lot of jobs I'd rather do for $15/hr.

Regarding their ability to get a 6 figure career after graduating, is that really all that impressive? I think anyone who has an undergrad degree, a 4 year graduate degree (med school) , and 3-4 years of an apprenticeship (internship), and possibly a second internship (fellowship) would expect to be reasonably well compensated. Most first year attendings have 200k in student loans and at 30-something are earning real money for the first time.

*I might have that slightly wrong, but I'm pretty close. Feel free to correct me.