“In the summer of 2024, I embarked on a medical student exchange program in Campinas, Brazil. From my first day in the Surgery Department at the School of Medical Sciences (SMS) of Unicamp, I knew I was in for a challenging yet rewarding experience. The department was a hub of activity, with a steady stream of patients presenting with various traumatic injuries. The cases ranged from motor vehicle accidents to industrial injuries, reflecting the fast-paced and often unpredictable nature of trauma surgery.

Each day began with morning rounds, where the team discussed overnight cases and planned the day's surgeries. I was paired with a trauma surgeon, Professor Gustavo Fraga, whose expertise and mentorship were invaluable. Observing many surgeries, I learned techniques and approaches that differed from those I had seen back home. The emphasis on rapid assessment and decision-making in trauma cases was particularly enlightening. I also had the opportunity to do a day shift in the emergency department, where I gained hands-on experience with trauma patients.

Outside the hospital, my experience was equally enriching. I stayed with a host family who welcomed me with open arms and introduced me to Brazilian culture. I enjoyed traditional dishes like stroganoff, feijoada, and pão de queijo, and participated in local festivities like Festa Junina. Exploring Campinas, with its parks, museums, and vibrant nightlife, provided a perfect balance to the intense hospital work.

The program was not without its challenges. The language barrier was initially daunting, as most patient interactions were in Portuguese. However, this pushed me to quickly improve my language skills and adapt to communicating effectively in a medical context. The high volume of trauma cases also required me to stay focused and manage my time efficiently. By the end of the exchange, I was able to understand Portuguese better and could hold a fairly good conversation in the language.

Participating in a medical student exchange program in Campinas, particularly in the Trauma Surgery Department, was an unforgettable journey. It broadened my perspective on trauma care, strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in surgery, and deepened my appreciation for cultural diversity in the medical field. For any medical student considering an exchange program, I highly recommend embracing the opportunity—it is a path to both professional and personal growth”.

Testimonial from Nathanael Orin Dion, a medical student from Pelita Harapan University, Indonesia. He completed his internship in June 2024 at the SMS of Unicamp.