Ida Štimacさん

I am writing to share my reflections and experiences from my recent exchange program at Hyogo Medical University, Japan, which has been one of the most valuable opportunities of my medical education so far.

Visiting Japan had been a dream of mine for many years, and being chosen for this exchange was truly an honor and a privilege. I had heard wonderful stories from students who participated in previous years, and my expectations were very high even before my departure. Still, the reality of my time in Japan far exceeded anything I could have imagined.

Prior to my departure, I undertook preparation to ensure that I would be able to gain the maximum benefit from the exchange program. This included reviewing relevant aspects of the Japanese healthcare system, revising core medical knowledge in anesthesiology and emergency medicine, and familiarizing myself with Japanese cultural practices and basic language expressions. I also gathered insights from students who had participated in the program in previous years, which helped me set realistic expectations. These allowed me to approach the exchange with confidence and excitement for the professional and cultural experiences that awaited me. From the very first day of my arrival, I felt warmly welcomed. Everyone I met was exceptionally polite, respectful, and helpful. Very quickly, Japan felt like a second home to me.

During my four weeks at Hyogo Medical University, I had the opportunity to rotate through two departments: two weeks in the Department of Anesthesiology and two weeks in the Department of Emergency Medicine. Each placement gave me unique insights into the Japanese healthcare system, and I was able to notice both the similarities and the differences compared to the healthcare system in my own country.

In the Anesthesiology Department, I gained exposure to different settings, including the operating room, intensive care unit, and the pain clinic. Each environment in its own way gave me a deeper understanding of the crucial role anesthesiologists play in patient care. Observing the close teamwork between doctors, nurses, and other healthcare staff was very useful, and I learned a lot not only about medical techniques but also about collaboration and communication in a clinical setting. The Pain Clinic was particularly interesting for me, as many of the procedures performed there were ones I had not encountered before. What stood out to me was how these interventions were able to provide patients with noticeable relief in a relatively short period of time. The resulting improvement in their quality of life highlighted the importance of this field of medicine and aligned closely with my own motivation as a future physician.

In the Emergency Medicine Department, I was faced with cases involving some of the most critically ill patients I had ever encounteredThe experience was difficult at times but provided valuable learning opportunities. Although I had studied emergency medicine at my home university, I had never personally witnessed a resuscitation until my time at Hyogo Medical University. Being able to observe such an intense and vital procedure was very valuable experience for my future work. I also learned more about postmortem care, which is not a subject we receive much exposure to during our medical studies. This experience expanded my understanding of the scope of emergency medicine and the many responsibilities physicians must take on.

Beyond the clinical training, what made the greatest impact on me was the Japanese culture and the kindness of the people. The politeness, humility, and generosity of everyone I met left
impression on me.
The interactions I witnessed, marked by respect, patience, and consideration, shaped my understanding of Japanese society. These qualities not only shaped my overall impression of Japan but also provided personal lessons that I will carry with me into my future practice as a physician.

During my stay, I had the opportunity to visit Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Tokyo. Each city offered a different perspective on Japan and reflected a distinctive balance between tradition and modern life. Kyoto was the most impressive for me, as it presented the clearest representation of Japanese history and culture through its temples, gardens, and preserved neighborhoods. Hiroshima left a strong impression due to its history and its role as a symbol of peace and resilience. Tokyo demonstrated the innovation and energy of modern Japan. We have visited cities such as Nara, Kobe, and Osaka several times, which allowed us to fully experience what each city had to offer. Spending six weeks in Japan allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of how people live and interact here. I am grateful for the chance to experience Japanese culture firsthand and to meet many Japnese people. This experience has broadened my perspective and reinforced values of respect, humility, and community, which I hope to integrate into both my personal life and my professional development as a physician.

Looking back, I can confidently say that this exchange program was one of the most meaningful and formative experiences of my time as a medical student. It enriched my medical knowledge, exposed me to new perspectives in patient care, and gave me a deeper appreciation of cultural differences in healthcare. Most importantly, it gave me unforgettable memories of Japan and its people.

I will always remain grateful for this opportunity, and I sincerely hope that many more students in the future will be able to benefit from the same experience at Hyogo Medical University.