Post by Esther Hallal, a 3rd-year Medical Student at the Carol Davila University of Bucharest Romania.
This August I had the privilege to be one of the winners of the SNO- GEMx elective student exchange program, and honestly, this experience has propelled me both professionally and personally in various ways.
I had the opportunity to interact with a different medical system and while working within the surgical unit I was able to develop my surgical practical skills and further my theoretical knowledge through real-life problem-based learning. During the internship, I had the chance to communicate with patients and colleagues alike; strong bonds were forged, so much so, that I wish to visit the hospital once again in the future.
After the hospital internship experience, the bar was set quite high, which is why I underestimated the impact the TUFH conference would have on me. Nevertheless, the conference did not fall short from revolutionary because I was inspired by the student projects and the passion with which they presented. The overall atmosphere of the conference persuaded me to become part of the Student Network Organization movement; whose goal is to help students rise together. This is how I became the European Regional Representative of the Student Network Organization and now it is also my mission to empower students alike around the world.