If you’re considering getting a shadowing experience abroad, then you might be able to get a ton of information from this article.
Shadowing Abroad in Greece as a Premed Student
Things to look for in shadowing abroad programs:
Hands-off observational shadowing experiences involve learning from physicians in authentic clinical settings. Participants have the opportunity to engage with consenting patients, ask questions, and interact under the supervision of professionals. In addition to these aspects, individuals can refer to the Association of American Medical Colleges Guidelines for engaging in premedical experiences abroad.
Criteria for Physicians in Collaboration with Philotimo Med Abroad
- Physicians affiliated with Philotimo Med Abroad must be members of our partner hospitals.
- They should be committed to educating premed and med students.
- Proficiency in the English language is essential.
Philotimo Med Abroad programs are based on
- Selection of locations that prioritize the safety and well-being of our students.
- Availability of diverse extracurricular activities to enrich the student experience.
- Immersive cultural exposure.
Current locations of Philotimo Med programs:
- Athens
- Larissa
Student Criteria
- Suitable for students aged 17 and above.
- Student performance expectations:
- Demonstrate commitment to the program.
- Display a dedicated attitude towards learning.
- Show thoughtful consideration of their career aspirations and passions.
How long do you shadow abroad with Philotimo Med Abroad?
- One-week to four weeks length
- Each week, the students get to observe a different surgical and non-surgical department
- Each week the students get to observe a different specialty department under the guidance of a different doctor or mentor
- Students get to choose their medical department
Philotimo Med Abroad is an organization based in the USA operating from Greece. Philotimo Med Abroad provides students with the opportunity to gain exposure to a different facet of the medical field, allowing them to experience the best aspects of medical practice. The organization offers comprehensive shadowing internships abroad tailored to pre-health students, including those in the medical, nursing, and dental fields.
A day in the life of a student shadowing doctors abroad:
Pre-Departure Services: – We provide comprehensive pre-departure services to ensure a smooth transition for students embarking on their trip abroad. Our students have access to our staff based in the USA and Greece for any pre-departure assistance or queries.
Preparation: – Prior to departure, students are advised to consult with healthcare professionals to obtain necessary vaccinations and to make flight arrangements.
Arrival at the Airport: – Upon arrival at the airport, students are greeted by a member of our staff who facilitates transportation to their accommodations.
Local Orientations: – Upon settling into their accommodations, students receive local orientations with information about the area, navigation, local ATMs and currencies, and an introduction to the cultural aspects of the hospital environment.
Daily Activities: – An average day shadowing abroad with Philotimo Med involves morning meetings between students and doctors to discuss cases, followed by shadowing and patient interactions in hospital wards. Students may have the opportunity to observe surgeries in the operating theater. At the end of the day, they return to their accommodations.
Weekend Activities: – On weekends, students partake in recreational activities such as safaris, jungle adventures, beach outings, and trips to Greek Islands.
Benefits of Shadowing Abroad: – Students gain exposure to diverse cultures and build international connections with peers. They experience firsthand the global disparities in healthcare, which contributes to their understanding of medicine as a global field and engages them in important conversations related to global health.
Ideal Participants: – The shadowing experience is well-suited for students seeking to gain a defining perspective on medicine, individuals exploring career paths, including older students, and high school students aspiring to enter the medical field.
Expectations from Medical Schools: – Medical schools value global health experiences, the ability to draw comparisons between domestic and international healthcare settings, and a broad range of experiences.
Incorporating the Experience into Applications: – Students are encouraged to integrate their Philotimo Med Abroad experiences into their applications in a natural and meaningful way, highlighting how the experience has shaped their aspirations in medicine and their dedication to helping those in need.
Cost and Fundraising: – The cost of a two-week placement in Greece can range from $2,740 to $5,740 for 4 weeks. Many students engage in fundraising activities and are provided with creative ideas to secure funds for their placements, including sponsored activities and volunteering opportunities.
Safety Measures: – We prioritize safety beginning with pre-departure orientation, providing detailed information on destinations and cultural differences. Our program managers and overseas staff are fully trained, and we maintain direct oversight of all operations. In addition, students have access to wifi and are accommodated in areas with internet cafes. Continual communication between overseas and pre-departure teams ensures that students have ongoing support and assistance.
