Leading Clinical Experience for Nursing Students in Europe

Atlantis provided me with an opportunity to expand my knowledge and appreciation for healthcare. It was my second time going overseas and my first time experiencing a different kind of medical system. While it was challenging in the beginning, I gained a lot from the experience. At first it was nerve wracking trying to determine what language and cultural barriers would be in place that would inhibit my learning. After the first few days, all nerves were set aside because the language and culture (while different) just provided a new way of observing healthcare. When I could not understand what was happening with my ears, I would use my eyes to observe body language, facial expressions, etc. in order to figure out what was happening. Later on the doctor would explain what happened. I learned how to effectively observe a situation and deduce relationships and emotions from them. I would recommend this experience to anyone interested in medicine and/or has an interest in cultural competency. Atlantis allowed me to observe and interact with a culture that was otherwise unknown to me. It helped me gain a better understanding and appreciation for the many unique lifestyles in the world.

My 2018 Healthcare Study Abroad Trip to Lithuania was by far, the best study abroad experience ever. I was able to learn about an unfamiliar Eastern European country, shadow
numerous health care professionals at a University Hospital, observe different surgeries, build life-long professional connections, learn about patient-centered health care, travel to different countries along the baltic sea, and finally, make ever-lasting memories with great people!

This was by far the best experience and decision I made during my college career. Not only did I get to meet a great group of friends from different schools, but I got to experience the Healthcare system of another country by directly interacting with doctors and other hospital employees. The Atlantis team was extremely prepared to handle our group, and they took excellent care of all of us. We went to local restaurants, had tours throughout the city and capitol and had a good amount of free time to spend exploring or finding awesome places throughout the country. I highly recommend this experience, and I really hope I can have another experience similar to this one...definitely life changing.

I spent a duration of five weeks abroad and a total of three weeks shadowing. I took time before hand to travel in Italy and absolutely believe that my most valuable time abroad was in the hospital during my fellowship! I am forever grateful to the Atlantis Project for this opportunity and allowing me to learn more about what I love. I was able to network with many healthcare professionals and form a strong, professional network. Atlantis includes weekly excursions that were incredible to experience and places I never would have heard of otherwise. In addition to my time as a fellow, I had a multitude of opportunities in which I genuinely learned about the culture in my host country. I will absolutely be applying for another fellowship in the future!

I was an Atlantis Project fellow in August of 2015 in Terceira, Portugal. This experience was one of the most influential for me both personally and in my career endeavors. I traveled out of the country for the first time and was able to experience a new and fascinating culture. The shadowing opportunities were such an inspiring opportunity that in this past semester when I really struggled, they were my reason to keep pushing. It gave me sight of the end goal and reminded me why I want to pursue my career. While there I gained about 20 hours a week of shadowing with doctors, nurses, surgeons, specialists etc... In my free time I was able to go hiking, explore a volcano, go cliff diving, swim with wild dolphins, go whale watching and overall learn about a new culture. This was one of the best experiences as I not only gained observation hours and educational information, but I also gained a new sense of independence and a more diverse outlook on life. I'd highly recommend this to anyone interested in the medical field and/or going abroad.

The Atlantis Project was easily one of the most rewarding experienced of my college career. I don't know of any other program that allows you to not only shadow doctors and nurses but also experience a whole new culture and health care system. Our day to day was always full of different activities ranging from exploring the beaches of Gran Canaria to visiting the different villages and cities on the islands full of history and culture. Monday through friday the day would start with going to the hospital, where we would stay until 1 or 2 in the afternoon. I got to shadow in pediatric emergency and nephrology, which were both great experiences! The doctors and nurses were all very welcoming and willing to let us observe their day to day and teach us about their jobs. The hospital was also the best place to practice the language, since a lot of staff felt more comfortable speaking in their own language and patients usually did not speak any english. After shadowing, we would either have a few hours of free time to explore Las Palmas or go to the beach or we would teach Base5 classes. Base5 was great because it gave us a chance to give back by teaching the hospital staff english. It also wasn't a huge commitment, since we would only teach two classes a week so that left lots of time to do other things. Our afternoons were usually filled with group dinners or excursions, where we got to explore the island and try some amazing Spanish and Canarian foods. The excursions and dinners were all optional, so any fellows who wanted to explore the island or city on their own could do so. Transportation was easy with so many city buses available and was fairly cheap. Our transportation to the hospital was also payed for and we were provided with most meals through breakfast at the residencia and lunch or dinner during excursions. The cost of food was pretty low, so buying your own meals was not expensive and most fellows chose to do so and try different foods.
Overall, the Atlantis Project offers an amazing opportunities for american students interested in healthcare to gain international experience while having a fun and enriching experience abroad. I would definitely recommend it to anybody looking for some international experience in healthcare.