Lithuanian Adventure
Lithuanian Adventure
I am Sesilia, a fourth-year medical student at Tbilisi Medical Academy (TMA). I have always wanted to participate in an exchange program, and thanks to the Academy, I was able to be part of this incredible project.
The four weeks I spent in Klaipėda, Lithuania were extremely important for both my personal and professional growth. At Klaipėda University Hospital, I met highly skilled doctors who were not only experts in their field but also very warm and welcoming. My mentor, Dr. Titas, supported me throughout my time there and involved me in as many activities as possible. He explained every procedure in detail, allowing me to understand and learn effectively. I communicated with patients, did my best to assist them, and gained valuable clinical experience.
I had the opportunity to observe many surgeries, and eventually, Dr. Titas offered me the chance to assist him directly. It was an incredible experience; I was even allowed to suture a wound. The doctors made sure we, as students, were comfortable and had a hands-on learning experience.
After long and fulfilling days, we would return to our cozy student dormitory. Our days typically began at 7 a.m., and by 8 a.m., we were already at the clinic.
The hospital was very well organized, and I was deeply impressed by the Lithuanian healthcare system, which combines advanced technology with a strong patient-centered approach. It was fascinating to compare Klaipėda’s healthcare practices with those in my home country. I learned about different treatment protocols, hospital workflows, and public health challenges.
One of the most valuable aspects of the exchange program was the mentorship provided by attending physicians and senior residents. They informed me about each patient and encouraged me to participate actively, which helped me to expand my knowledge and confidence.
I was especially inspired by the strong sense of teamwork among the doctors. They worked together seamlessly and took their responsibilities seriously. One of the most important lessons I learned during my stay in Klaipėda was the importance of adaptability—whether it was adjusting to a new healthcare system, working in a different language, or embracing a new culture. This experience taught me to be flexible and resilient in unfamiliar situations. Medicine is a global profession, and the ability to adapt to different environments is essential. I stepped out of my comfort zone and embraced this new experience fully.
I was fortunate to witness robotic surgeries, which left a lasting impression on me. I also participated in patient interviews, diagnosis, and treatment planning. I saw firsthand how vital it is to uphold medical ethics and communicate effectively with patients.
One day, my mentor told me that a patient had cancer and asked me to deliver the news. It was a difficult task, but I did my best to approach it with empathy and care. Though it was one of the most challenging moments of the program, I realized it is part of being a doctor. I reassured the patient that we would be by his side throughout the treatment journey and that our entire medical team would do everything possible to help him overcome the illness. Seeing his grateful expression and the trust in his eyes was an unforgettable moment.
My experience in Lithuania reaffirmed my passion for medicine. It was in Klaipėda that I discovered the specialty that I want to pursue in the future.
The skills, connections, and memories I gained during my time in Klaipėda will stay with me for years to come. The lessons I learned will undoubtedly support my future career development.
I am Sesilia, a fourth-year medical student at Tbilisi Medical Academy (TMA). I have always wanted to participate in an exchange program, and thanks to the Academy, I was able to be part of this incredible project.
The four weeks I spent in Klaipėda, Lithuania were extremely important for both my personal and professional growth. At Klaipėda University Hospital, I met highly skilled doctors who were not only experts in their field but also very warm and welcoming. My mentor, Dr. Titas, supported me throughout my time there and involved me in as many activities as possible. He explained every procedure in detail, allowing me to understand and learn effectively. I communicated with patients, did my best to assist them, and gained valuable clinical experience.
I had the opportunity to observe many surgeries, and eventually, Dr. Titas offered me the chance to assist him directly. It was an incredible experience; I was even allowed to suture a wound. The doctors made sure we, as students, were comfortable and had a hands-on learning experience.
After long and fulfilling days, we would return to our cozy student dormitory. Our days typically began at 7 a.m., and by 8 a.m., we were already at the clinic.
The hospital was very well organized, and I was deeply impressed by the Lithuanian healthcare system, which combines advanced technology with a strong patient-centered approach. It was fascinating to compare Klaipėda’s healthcare practices with those in my home country. I learned about different treatment protocols, hospital workflows, and public health challenges.
One of the most valuable aspects of the exchange program was the mentorship provided by attending physicians and senior residents. They informed me about each patient and encouraged me to participate actively, which helped me to expand my knowledge and confidence.
I was especially inspired by the strong sense of teamwork among the doctors. They worked together seamlessly and took their responsibilities seriously. One of the most important lessons I learned during my stay in Klaipėda was the importance of adaptability—whether it was adjusting to a new healthcare system, working in a different language, or embracing a new culture. This experience taught me to be flexible and resilient in unfamiliar situations. Medicine is a global profession, and the ability to adapt to different environments is essential. I stepped out of my comfort zone and embraced this new experience fully.
I was fortunate to witness robotic surgeries, which left a lasting impression on me. I also participated in patient interviews, diagnosis, and treatment planning. I saw firsthand how vital it is to uphold medical ethics and communicate effectively with patients.
One day, my mentor told me that a patient had cancer and asked me to deliver the news. It was a difficult task, but I did my best to approach it with empathy and care. Though it was one of the most challenging moments of the program, I realized it is part of being a doctor. I reassured the patient that we would be by his side throughout the treatment journey and that our entire medical team would do everything possible to help him overcome the illness. Seeing his grateful expression and the trust in his eyes was an unforgettable moment.
My experience in Lithuania reaffirmed my passion for medicine. It was in Klaipėda that I discovered the specialty that I want to pursue in the future.
The skills, connections, and memories I gained during my time in Klaipėda will stay with me for years to come. The lessons I learned will undoubtedly support my future career development.
