“I enrolled in FutureDocs Abroad because I wanted to challenge myself. This program gave me the opportunity to step outside my comfort zone and fully immerse myself in a new culture, specifically allowing me to learn about healthcare systems outside of America. Attending FutureDocs Abroad gave me the opportunity to deeply immerse myself in a new and unfamiliar culture. I was exposed to different languages, customs and ways of life while in Vietnam, specifically observing differences within the healthcare system. As a physician, I will have the opportunity to work with individuals from all walks of life; individuals who may have an entirely different background from my own. I will be more compassionate and effective as a physician because of the cultural competency gained on this program. Participating in medical rotations in a foreign country, where most patients and staff members did not speak English, cultivated my ability to learn, adapt and thrive in an unfamiliar environment. It also exposed me to many aspects of healthcare, both beneficial and detrimental, driving my passion to implement change within the system.”

“Being a part of Future Docs Abroad was undoubtedly a life-changing experience. While you can shadow doctors at any hospital, Future Docs Abroad allowed me to experience almost 10 different specialties of medicine and stand next to the surgeon for numerous procedures in just 2 weeks, which is impossible to coordinate for a regular student. My favorite part was being able to take part in the state of the art medical simulation building and practice on the laparoscopic surgery machine. Shadowing the different doctors expanded my horizon on what speciality of medicine I want to practice in for the future.”

“My experience in Vietnam with the FutureDocs Abroad program has meant the absolute most to my personal growth and desire to go into the medical field. It has renewed my dedication to medicine in ways I never could have imagined, and I will be forever grateful to each and every person who made it such an incredible experience. Under the caring mentorship of HueUMP students and faculty, I was able to see my own blood under a microscope, learn anatomy on an actual cadaver, and witness the meaningful relationships between doctors and their patients. Additionally, getting to travel to another country and be immersed in their beautiful, unique culture was truly life changing. These are just a few of the incredibly valuable experiences I had on this journey! The amazing things I saw and did will stick with me forever, and the wonderful people I met will always hold a special place in my heart.”

“I’ve attended two FDA trips and can honestly say these experiences have changed my life! I’ll never forget being the first person to hold a newborn baby in Vietnam or standing right by the surgeon during an appendectomy in Poland. Being able to see the raw side of medicine at 17 has certainly fueled my passion and solidified my desire to pursue a career in healthcare!”