Javiera Sepúlveda, a fourth-year medical student at the Universidad Católica del Maule, is set to embark on an international clinical internship in neurology at the prestigious Hospital Central Ignacio Morone Prieto in Mexico, starting January 2025. This possibility, facilitated by the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA), aims to enhance her medical knowledge and cultural understanding while working in a dynamic healthcare environment. “I’m excited about this invaluable experience that will not only expand my medical skills but also contribute to my personal growth,” said Sepúlveda. She encourages fellow students to explore similar programs, emphasizing that such experiences can significantly shape their future careers in medicine.
Q&A with Javiera Sepúlveda: Insights on International Clinical Internships in Neurology
Editor: Welcome, Javiera. We’re thrilled to discuss your upcoming international clinical internship in neurology at the Hospital Central Ignacio Morone Prieto in Mexico. What motivated you to pursue this opportunity?
Javiera Sepúlveda: thank you for having me! my motivation stems from a desire to broaden my medical knowledge and cultural understanding. Participating in an internship like this, facilitated by the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA), allows me to immerse myself in a dynamic healthcare environment, which is essential for my growth as a medical professional.
Editor: That’s remarkable! Could you elaborate on how this internship specifically enhances your medical skills?
Javiera Sepúlveda: Absolutely. Working in a prestigious hospital like Hospital central Ignacio Morone Prieto means I’ll have access to a diverse patient population and complex cases. This exposure will not only deepen my understanding of neurology but also help me develop practical skills that are critical in making informed medical decisions. It’s about translating classroom knowledge into real-world application.
Editor: Many medical students are hesitant to leave their comfort zones. What would you say to encourage them to explore similar programs?
Javiera Sepúlveda: I completely understand that hesitation. However,I beleive that stepping outside your comfort zone is where the biggest growth happens. Experiences like thes provide you with invaluable insights into different healthcare systems, cultural attitudes towards medicine, and patient care practices.I encourage my peers to seek out such opportunities, as they can considerably influence their futures and make them more adaptable healthcare professionals.
Editor: How do you think cultural immersion impacts the medical field, notably in neurology?
Javiera Sepúlveda: Cultural immersion is critical. In neurology, understanding the cultural context of patient backgrounds can improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy. Different cultures may express neurological conditions in various ways or have unique health beliefs. Being immersed in another culture allows us to appreciate these differences and adapt our practice accordingly, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.
Editor: What practical advice would you give to students considering an international internship in medicine?
Javiera Sepúlveda: First,do your research on programs that align with your career interests. Prioritize placements that offer robust mentorship and hands-on clinical experience. Second, cultivate a mindset of openness and adaptability; challenges will arise, and the ability to navigate them is key. Lastly, connect with past interns to gain insights and advice—they can provide invaluable perspectives on what to expect.
Editor: as you prepare for your journey in January 2025, what are you most excited about?
Javiera Sepúlveda: I’m most excited about the opportunity to meet and learn from professionals in the field, and also to engage with patients from diverse backgrounds. This experience is a significant step in my medical journey, shaping not just my skills but also my personal growth. I feel it will influence how I approach medicine for the rest of my career.
Editor: Thank you, Javiera, for sharing your insights and experiences. Your journey is an inspiring reminder of the value of international experiences in medicine.
Javiera Sepúlveda: Thank you for having me! I hope to inspire others to take similar leaps into international medical settings. It can truly transform your approach to medicine and enhance your career prospects in ways you never imagined.