Academically, I had the chance to train in dermatology and maxillofacial surgery, gaining hands-on exposure and learning from international doctors in a very supportive environment. The program helped me grow not only in clinical skills but also in teamwork, communication, and cultural understanding.

Beyond the hospital, the social program was amazing. I met students from all over the world, joined organized activities across Budapest, and explored the city’s beautiful mix of history and modern life. During weekends, I also traveled to Italy, Vienna, and Switzerland, discovering new cultures and creating unforgettable memories with other exchange students.

This journey taught me how to balance learning with exploration, and it truly broadened my view of medicine and life. I highly recommend every student to take this opportunity; it’s not just an internship, it’s a life-changing adventure.

Studying medicine in Malta gave me a fresh perspective on healthcare and patient interaction. The clinical exposure, teaching methods, and emphasis on hands-on learning helped me grow not only as a medical student but also as a person. I particularly appreciated how approachable the professors were and how much they encouraged us to ask questions and think critically.

Outside the classroom, Malta was a beautiful mix of history, culture, and breathtaking views. I made friends from all around the world, explored stunning beaches, and learned to appreciate a slower, more mindful pace of life.

This experience has truly broadened my horizons and strengthened my passion for medicine. I returned to Egypt with new knowledge, confidence, and unforgettable memories that will always stay with me.

In July 2025, I participated in my second exchange in Slovenia. From the very first day, the people there were incredibly friendly and made me feel at home. I was placed in the orthopedic department, where the staff were welcoming and supportive, giving me the chance to assist with casts and join them in the operating room. The social program was equally well organized, allowing us to explore different cities, experience Slovenian culture, and connect with other international students. Meeting people from so many diverse backgrounds during both exchanges helped me grow not only as a future doctor but also as a person, deepening my appreciation for different cultures and perspectives. What began as a group of strangers soon became a close circle of friends, and by the end of the exchange, those friendships felt like family bonds. We still keep in touch, carrying forward the wonderful memories and connections we built together.

Summer dream! So when I found out I’d be going to Belgium, I was absolutely astonished!

From the very first moment I arrived, I was welcomed warmly by my CP Selim, the LEO Jef, and

many of the amazing locals. I also met international students from different majors in my dorms,

which gave me an incredible chance to experience real cultural exchange.

I spent my internship in the Vascular Surgery Department, which turned out to be a truly

fascinating experience. The professors were very supportive and collaborative, and every time

they said,

“From Egypt? Wow!” it never failed to make me smile. I got the opportunity to scrub in

and assist in five surgeries throughout the month, as well as help in preparing and transferring

patients.

During my exchange, I also had the chance to visit four countries — Belgium, Germany, the

Netherlands, and France! I loved how easy it was to explore Europe; it truly feels like one big

connected country.

Even now, I’m still in touch with my exchange friends (you’ll see them in all my photos!), and

saying goodbye at the end of the month was truly emotional.

I’ll forever cherish the memories we created together — and I highly recommend this experience

to anyone who gets the chance!

Samuel Boghdade

During the first week, I trained in the ward, learning how to follow up and communicate with patients. The second week in the Emergency Department was thrilling, full of critical and interesting cases. Later, I observed advanced procedures like TAVI and PCI, and in my final week, I learned how to perform ECGs and interpret echocardiograms.

Beyond the clinical experience, the trip was equally rewarding socially. Our contact persons were incredibly friendly—one even invited us to her home on the first day! We also met other international students in another city, making the journey even more memorable.

Overall, this experience broadened my medical perspective, strengthened my skills, and gave me friendships and memories I’ll always cherish.

I fell in love with medicine, with nature, and with life itself. We were placed in Banda Aceh, a small coastal town surrounded by the sea and breathtaking scenery. Every corner of the city had something magical, from the kindness of the people to the peaceful sound of the waves each morning. The hospital where we were placed was incredibly well-equipped, and the doctors were beyond supportive and patient. They guided us with care, encouraged us to ask questions, and gave us the opportunity to learn through hands-on experience. We even got to scrub in on surgeries and gain skills far beyond our years.

But the best part was the people, an incredible group from all around the world. They taught me so much about their cultures, values, and dreams, and together we built friendships that will last a lifetime. We explored the town and nearby islands with the kindest local students, who made sure we were always happy, comfortable, and making the most of our time there.

If someone were to ask me whether they should try this experience, I’d say yes without hesitation. It’s something that will truly fill your heart, expand your mind, and stay with you forever.

Two years ago, I was fortunate enough to travel with my best friend, Eman, on an exchange program in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. During my stay, I had the chance to explore breathtaking sceneries, immerse myself in a rich new culture, and meet incredible people who made the experience a hundred times better. Many of the friendships I built there are ones I still cherish and keep in touch with today.

For my hospital placement, I was assigned to the General Surgery Department, where the doctors were exceptionally supportive and eager to teach. I learned so much beyond just medicine from teamwork and communication to compassion and resilience. I also had the chance to scrub in on numerous orthopedic and urology operations, which were truly fascinating and eye-opening experiences.

Overall, this exchange was nothing short of life-changing. I’m deeply grateful to my CIMSA family in Aceh for their warm hospitality, constant support, and for making me feel at home even though I was on the other side of the world. This journey not only enriched my medical knowledge but also gave me unforgettable memories and lifelong connections.

I would highly recommend this exchange program to anyone seeking personal growth, medical learning, and meaningful friendships it’s simply an experience that truly stays with you forever.

Exchange was nothing usual. All I can say is that I saw nearly everything I had dreamed of seeing, and even more than I could have imagined. Not only that, but I made friends I don’t think I will ever be able to forget.

From the very first moment, I was welcomed by incredibly kind people, the CPs, who even accompanied me to my accommodation. The place was great: a nice room, a kitchen, and several bathrooms, so accommodation was never a problem.

Academically, I learned so many things I could never have learned here, thanks to the top-notch equipment and a wonderful tutor who treated us like family.

And I’ll never forget every city I visited: Porto, Lisbon, Cascais, Cabo da Roca, and Braga. Each one was magical. The city I stayed in, Lisbon, may be a little smaller than the others, but it was truly beautiful once you start discovering everything it offers.

To sum up, this exchange not only showed me how amazing it is to discover new things but also taught me valuable lessons I will carry with me forever.

experiences I’ve ever had, and I’d definitely do it again if I had the chance. I met so many amazing people from all over the

world and made lasting friendships that I’m still keeping in touch with today. The social programs were incredibly engaging —

full of laughter, activities, and cultural exchange. I even got the chance to travel to different countries and go on trips with my

friends, doing everything from hiking and long walks to just having fun together at arcades and exploring new places.

At the hospital, the experience was just as rewarding. The doctors were kind, welcoming, and genuinely passionate about

teaching. I learned a lot about both medicine and the healthcare system in Poland, and the hands-on experience was truly

eye-opening. Overall, this exchange gave me lifelong memories, valuable lessons, and friendships that I’ll always cherish.

Our time at the university hospital in the Neurology department was also incredibly meaningful, as it was my first time observing real cases, interacting with patients, and learning directly from doctors who were exceptionally kind, patient, and supportive. Beyond the university, Brazil itself left a huge impression on me; every weekend we explored incredible places like Foz do Iguaçu with its breathtaking waterfalls and Rio de Janeiro with Christ the Redeemer and its stunning views. Everywhere we went, people were warm, friendly, and always willing to help, making Brazil feel like a second home. This exchange opened my mind and heart, gave me memories I will truly cherish forever, and it’s definitely an experience I would love to repeat again in the future.