A health internship program abroad guarantees two things: an unforgettable learning experience and incredible adventures along the way. Both play important roles in your medical career journey, but finding the right balance is what makes the experience truly transformative.
So, how do you balance adventure and learning during your health internship abroad?
Set Clear Goals
First, think about what you’d like to learn. Are there any specific skills you’d love to pick up? Perhaps you want to master public health research, health communication, or trauma-informed care. Write these down.
Next, consider what adventures you’re hoping to experience. Are you planning on hiking to a breathtaking waterfall on your weekend off, or maybe trying every single dish at the local night market? Make note of these, too.
With clear goals, you won’t be overwhelmed by every new experience. You’ll know exactly where you need to be and what experiences you’re seeking.
Put Learning First
Remember why you chose this internship in the first place, probably because you wanted to grow professionally. That needs to be your top priority, with everything else taking second place.
This internship doesn’t just impact your learning. It very likely lays the stage for career prospects, with data showing that interns are 25% more likely to start a full-time position barely six months after graduation.
So, show up every day ready to learn. If you’re observing surgeries, pay attention to even the tiniest details. How does the surgeon hold their tools? What questions do they ask the patient before starting? Ask for feedback from your mentors, too, and improve the experiential learning process based on their advice.
Plan Your Adventures Wisely
There are many things to do, many places to see, and plenty of cultures to experience. That said, smart planning becomes essential. You want to experience as much as possible without letting adventures interfere with your learning.
Start by scheduling dedicated downtime. For instance, you could use your evenings or weekends to explore a few things. Say you’re in Peru. On Friday nights, join a salsa class with locals. Saturdays, hike to Machu Picchu. On Sundays, relax at a café with a book.
Also, look for ways to combine professional development and adventure. For example, if you’re interested in public health, consider visiting a community clinic during your free time. Not only will you meet new people, but you’ll also deepen your understanding of patient care and global health care systems.
Cultural Immersion
Diverse cultures mean diverse experiences. And if you’re to make the most of your internship in new countries, you need to have at least a passing knowledge of how culture influences the lives of people there.
So, engage with locals whenever you can. Strike up conversations in line at the grocery store or grab coffee with a coworker after shifts. These interactions can provide insights that no guidebook could ever offer.
Ask questions whenever something intriguing pops up, too. People love talking about their traditions, holidays, and daily life. So, if someone mentions Tet (Vietnamese New Year), ask what it means to them personally. You’ll learn so much more this way. Also, if the opportunity presents itself, participate in cultural events. These experiences create lasting memories while deepening your appreciation for the communities you’re serving.
Health and Safety
Burnout rates in the medical field were as high as 62% in 2021. But when you put your health and well-being first, you increasingly lower the odds of falling victim to this situation.
Start by taking care of yourself physically. Eat well, drink plenty of water, and try to get enough sleep. Mental health matters, too. So, take breaks when you need to. If you need a quiet evening in instead of going out, do it. You’ll be sharper and happier for it.
But it’s not just about health. Safety is another huge concern. So, research the area before heading out. Are there certain neighborhoods to avoid? Do you need to carry cash or use cards? Know the local emergency numbers and crisis hotlines, and keep them handy.
Travel insurance is another very important factor. About 68% of people consider taking it up when traveling abroad, and with good reason. You could lose your passport, get sick, or miss a flight. Travel insurance can cover these unexpected mishaps. Consider health insurance, liability insurance, and any other relevant coverage, too.
Final Thoughts
Balancing adventure and learning during a health internship abroad might take some work and discipline, but with these strategies, it’s absolutely achievable.
Even better, arm yourself with the resources on our site. At International Medical Aid, we are dedicated to providing the support you need to make the most of your experiences in different places across the world. Get in touch with us today, and let’s partner with you in this very important stage of your career.
