For January to March, the medical students Uliana Lodygina and Laura Rodrigues da Silva, from Universität Duisburg-Essen, Germany, did an internship at School of Medical Sciences (SMS) of University of Campinas (Unicamp). Both Uliana and Laura passed thru surgery, and Uliana also passed thru the ophthalmology area.

Read below their testimony about the experience:

“During my three-month internship at the University of Campinas, I had the opportunity to explore various medical specialties such as trauma surgery, gastrosurgery, vascular surgery, and ophthalmology. I am truly grateful for this enriching experience, where I learned, grew, and contributed to patient care in meaningful ways.

Participating in classes, simulations, and morning rounds deepened my understanding of medical practice and helped me refine my clinical skills and critical thinking abilities. Being actively involved in surgeries and assisting patients under the guidance of experienced professionals was invaluable to my learning.

What stood out to me during my time at Unicamp was the strong sense of teamwork and support within the medical community. I felt welcomed and embraced as a member of the team, which fostered collaborative learning and mutual encouragement. The dedication and expertise demonstrated by the doctors and staff were truly inspiring and served as role models for my future career in medicine.

Outside of the hospital, I enjoyed immersing myself in campus life and discovering the vibrant culture like music and dancing classes that Unicamp has to offer. The friendships I formed and the memories I created will always hold a special place in my heart, underscoring the profound impact of this experience on both a personal and professional level.

As I bid farewell to Unicamp, I carry with me not only a wealth of knowledge and skills but also a renewed sense of purpose and a renewed passion for medicine. I'm grateful for the chance to be part of such a great institution and eager to use what I've learned in my future healthcare work”, told Uliana.

“My internship at the Unicamp Hospital of Clinics provided me with the opportunity to receive an insight into numerous surgical specialties and to have an exchange with health care professionals from various areas, enabling me to expand my medical perspective.

Not only was I able to delve into practicing medicine in Portuguese, but I was also able to form a deeper understanding of the Brazilian health care system and be in close contact with the diagnostic and therapeutic process regarding diseases with high prevalence in Brazil, like the Chagas disease.

I think all in all, this clerkship at Unicamp has given me unique and important experiences - medical, as well as interpersonal ones - and I believe I will carry those into my future medical practice.

My time in Campinas was especially shaped by the warm welcome I received from the staff and my peers, the people I met and the connections and relationships I built, making me very grateful for having pursued this abroad experience”, said Laura, who is portuguese.