by Alexis Tuyo| Summer 2024 |
Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine. In fact, it was one of the reasons I was drawn to ACU. Despite being a pre-medical major, I wanted to find a way to explore Europe. Finding out about the Global Healthcare program was a blessing for me. Not only did I get to shadow for the first time, but I got to do it in Germany, something not many people can say. I learned so many things during the trip, medical and otherwise. I got to see places I never thought I’d see, from the pre-war, post-war, and modern architecture in Leipzig to the multi-historical buildings that you can find in Prague. Ever since I was little, I have wanted to be a doctor, but I have a deep fascination with the likes of Harry Potter. The architecture I found reminded me deeply of my childlike fascination with architecture and awe that I had not felt in the likes of the United States. Germany has gathered many different historical events and has the architecture to support it, which meant that every day was a new adventure.
In the Global Healthcare program, there was obviously a heavy emphasis on health insurance and the way health is conducted overall in not only Germany but also the surrounding European countries. As Americans, we often try to say our healthcare system is either the worst or the best, depending on which side of it you’re on. When “socialized medicine” is often introduced, we think of the “traditional” option of getting healthcare straight from the government with no option of private plans. It was fascinating to look at different angles of the healthcare system and even debate each other about the merits of every country. Despite the struggles I had in the beginning, I did not want to leave when it came time.
As a very anxious person, there are quite a few things I wish people had told me, one of which was to not be afraid to travel alone. Germany is an extremely safe country, and there are so many hidden places you can find if you stay away from traveling in large groups. Traveling by yourself or one other person not only diminishes the “American” aspect but also leads to an immersive experience. I would also advise you not to be afraid to speak German to the locals. The Germans will appreciate you trying! Learning German can be hard, but people who live there will try their best as long as you are trying.
At the end of the day, everyone experiences studying abroad differently. Many people loved bookshops, while others loved coffee shops or even hiking or swimming away from the bustle of the city. Don’t be afraid to try new things! Studying abroad, in my experience, was a life-changing experience that caused me to gain much more autonomy and confidence in myself. If you are thinking about studying abroad at all, I would highly encourage you to do it! There aren’t many opportunities like this, and experiencing a whole new culture is worth every second.
