Hunimed Students’ Experiences Abroad: Francesca’s story

As many other Hunimed students, Francesca Barbieri had the opportunity to spend 2016 summer abroad for medical training.
In this article, she describes her experience in Korea, at the Hanyang University Medical Centre, in Seoul.

Prescription For Growing: Learn Skills But Especially Make Friends

Written by Francesca Barbieri, Hunimed student

I would have never imagined to realize such a big project in such a short time. I found myself on the other side of the world just after a few months I started thinking about it.

As I knew about the possibility of obtaining a travel grant, I applied and was then accepted by the cardiology Professor Kyung -Soo KIM. Humanitas therefore gave me the opportunity to spend more than 40 days at the Hanyang University Medical Centre, in Seoul. There, I attended the cardiology wards, outpatient visits and the cardiology research laboratory.

To tell the truth, the difficulties of such an experience can be many and discouraging. But everything becomes so pleasant and worthy when you meet the right group of people.
Professor Kim and his group of physicians, residents, laboratory members and students accepted me as if I had always been one of them. My family and friends were definitely far away, but I found myself in an environment in which I never felt alone, I could ask anything I needed and was given all the possible help.

Trying to follow them during the working day was though, with no doubt. I used to spend between 12 and 13 hours per day in the hospital, some in the clinic, some in the laboratories. As a second year student, I felt to have a solid theoretical knowledge but it was the first time for me to approach the practical clinical environment or research designs and laboratory protocols.

I arrived as a very worried student, concerned about what to expect. I came out after 40 days with a basic knowledge of the main heart diseases, how to use the laboratory equipment, how to follow an experimental research design.  This was achieved thanks to the constant, careful and personal tutoring I was provided, I always had at least one physician or one researcher on my side. I came out as part of a group of friends, and this was the most surprising and precious aspect.

The attention they paid to the success and profit of my experience was invaluable. As invaluable is what I have learnt. Sometimes it is unbelievable how much we can grow in such a short time.

A quick overview of all Hunimed students’ experiences in this video.

Read also Cecilia’s, Sara’s and Giovanni’s.