Every thriving medical professional starts from somewhere. And that place is usually somewhere abroad through an internship.
Many pre-med students pursue internships abroad for various reasons, mostly to gain relevant experience. For one, that experience could bump up one’s application against an average of 18 applications per med school applicant.
But getting all the benefits of interning involves careful preparation and lots of effort once you’re there. Your question now may be, ‘How to make the most of your internship abroad.’ In that case, this guide will provide you with the answers you need.
Read on for tips on how you can maximize your pre-med internship opportunities and turn them into a rewarding experience. Let’s begin!
Planning Your Internship
Find the Right Program
First on your agenda should be choosing the program that’s ideal for you. Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you want to work in a bustling city hospital or a health clinic in a rural area?
- Are you curious about public health initiatives or more into developing research?
- Where do you want to pursue your pre-med internship?
Once you have an idea of your goals as a pre-med intern, start searching for reputable organizations offering pre-med internships abroad. A recent study found that 40% of young medical students felt that some internships didn’t prepare them sufficiently for clinical work. So, research thoroughly for programs that offer adequate preparation for your future medical career.
If you need additional help, feel free to visit your university’s career center. They could offer resources and connections relevant to your search and provide answers on how to get an internship abroad.
Pre-Departure Preparation
Depending on your place of residence and the destination for your pre-med internship, you may need to fulfill visa requirements and arrange for health insurance. Moreover, don’t forget your vaccinations. Some countries require an International Certificate of Vaccination or ‘Yellow Card’ for entry.
Researching your host country’s culture and language is also a plus. Knowledge of cultural and societal rules and some conversational words and phrases can help you interact with the locals better.
Lastly, consider setting personal goals, too. These goals can be anything from learning clinical skills to gaining medical research experience. Having something specific to achieve is one of the ways you can make the most of your internship abroad to an extent.
Thriving During Your Internship
Succeeding in Your Placement
Once you’ve safely arrived in your host country, the real work begins. First, establish clear expectations with your supervisor. It’s better to understand your responsibilities and learning objectives early on to avoid confusion and problems down the line.
Also, keep communication open to ensure a smooth and productive pre-med internship abroad. Don’t be shy when you need to ask your supervisor questions about your role. The more you ask, the more you’ll learn.
Pre-med internships are all about practical learning. So, actively seek opportunities to learn essential skills for your future healthcare career by observing medical procedures or assisting with research tasks. The hands-on experience will be truly worthwhile.
And remember to build rapport not just with your colleagues but with your patients, too. For instance, nine out of ten patients prefer clinicians who don’t use medical jargon. So, in your pre-med internship, practice your communication skills and embody cultural sensitivity to interact with patients from various backgrounds appropriately.
Cultural Immersion
Pre-med internships abroad offer invaluable medical experience, but the growth doesn’t stop there! Immerse yourself fully in the local culture of your host country. You may be invited to participate in community events or try local cuisine. Embrace these opportunities with open arms. These experiences can broaden your worldview and equip you with invaluable cultural understanding – essential qualities for a well-rounded future medical professional.
While exploring the vibrant culture of your host country, remember to be a respectful guest. Adapt your communication style if necessary to avoid miscommunication. This isn’t just about courtesy; it’s a bridge to deeper understanding.
By embracing cultural differences, you gain valuable insights into diverse healthcare approaches, potentially enriching your own medical perspective and future patient care.
Maximizing Your Learning
Taking Notes and Keeping a Journal
Aside from taking photos, keeping a journal is a fantastic way to document your daily experiences, observations, and reflections. So, capture every lesson, challenge you faced, and personal growth moment encountered in your pre-med internship. This way, you can revisit your entries later to see how much you’ve grown as a person and as a medical practitioner.
Networking Opportunities
Pre-med internships abroad open you to a world of networking opportunities that’ll aid you once you step into med school and beyond. So, make the most out of this experience by connecting with the healthcare professionals in your field and attending relevant conferences or workshops if available.
Making a Lasting Impact
Fulfilling Your Internship Responsibilities
You may not be a licensed doctor yet, but you must still deliver high-quality work, meet deadlines, and contribute meaningfully to the program. Remember your responsibilities and maintain a professional and positive attitude. When you do, your presence could leave a lasting impact on those you’ve collaborated with.
Leaving a Positive Impression
As your internship wraps up, express gratitude to your supervisor and colleagues. Doing so shows how you value their help and teachings. Moreover, why not offer to do a follow-up project or summarize what you have learned in a report? This extra effort shows initiative and genuine appreciation for the experience.
Final Thoughts
If you’re adamant about becoming a medical professional in the future, start by pursuing a pre-med internship. There are many ways to make the most of your internship abroad and apply the lessons in med school. This article has shown you what you can do.
So, don’t be afraid to take this new and beneficial opportunity. Seeking out challenges and embracing personal growth through an internship abroad can boost your chances of entering your dream med school.
