“From this experience, I've learned that I enjoy stepping outside my comfort zone, and I've gained more confidence in navigating new environments, meeting people from various backgrounds and keeping an open mind during new experiences and challenges,” reflected Lindsey Columbia, a nursing major on the Atlantis - Pre-Health Shadowing Experience in Madrid, Spain.
The program provides the opportunity to shadow doctors in Spain; observing patient care, hospital operation and clinical practices in leading Madrid hospitals.
“Going abroad was important for me because experiencing healthcare in Spain has strengthened my cultural competence in the hospital, increased my awareness of different healthcare systems and broadened my perspective on patient care.”
As an aspiring healthcare professional, Columbia wanted to pursue a study abroad experience to increase her cultural awareness and gain exposure to international hospital efforts.
“Atlantis has strengthened my ability to understand diverse patient populations and reinforced my commitment to providing culturally sensitive and compassionate care throughout my career,” Columbia shared.
Both inside hospitals and out, Columbia forged lasting memories and acquired new skills that can be used in everyday life and as she completes her nursing degree.
“Some memorable moments include exploring the city, experiencing Spanish culture, and getting to know individuals who call Spain their home! Shadowing physicians and surgeons in Spain has been extremely rewarding and has provided me with valuable insight into the practice of medicine from a global perspective.”