In the summer of 2019, I studied abroad in the city in Vigo, Spain. This study abroad was different than most: it was a clinical shadowing program partnership with the University of Florida. Within my experience abroad, I got the opportunity to grow in several ways. First, I learned about Spanish healthcare by shadowing physicians in several departments. I was able to observe physicians in radiology, trauma, ICU, and general surgery. I saw many procedures, both in and outside of the operating room. In addition, I was able to sit in on consults between patients and doctors. While I was not allowed to answer any medical related questions, I was able to answer questions about myself that piqued Spanish patients’ curiosity. I did note that overall, doctors and nurses in Spain have special relationships with their patients that is difficult to describe. There is an overwhelming amount of respect between patients and healthcare providers. There is a sense of openness and genuineness between the two groups. Also, the healthcare providers work in an amazing, collaborative effort that seemed to make work flow seamlessly despite the high volume of patients their medical system has to endure.

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While also Vigo, I was able to travel to other nearby cities to truly experience Spanish, Portuguese, and Galician cultures. I tried port wine in Porto, got sunburnt with locals on Pontevedra’s beaches, and lost track of time wandering Las Ramblas in Barcelona. However, the most touching experience was visiting Santiago de Compostela in the northwest of Spain. This is the final destination for many Catholics who embark on long pilgrimages across Europe. While I was able to experience the rich Spanish culture and laid back lifestyles, visiting Santiago de Compostela was truly unique. Watching people from several nations all coalesce in one spot because of their faith was awe-inspiring to say the least.

 

From food, to religion, to healthcare, my time in Spain was one of the highlights of my college career. I will forever cherish the many lessons I have learned while living there.