What inspired you to go abroad?
What inspired me to go abroad was a quiet but persistent realization that I needed to see medicine beyond the boundaries I had always known.
After years of intense studying, long nights, and repeated examinations during my MBBS journey, I had built a strong academic foundation, but somewhere along the way, I felt the need for perspective rather than another achievement. I wanted to understand medicine not only as a science but also as a lived human experience shaped by culture, communication, and compassion.
As I progressed through medical school, I began to question how different healthcare systems approach patient care, how doctors across the world balance clinical responsibility with personal well-being, and how medicine adapts to the social and cultural contexts of a country. This curiosity slowly transformed into a desire to step outside my comfort zone and learn in an environment that would challenge my assumptions while expanding my worldview.
Furthermore, I come from a small Himalayan country, Nepal, where dreams often feel distant, and the world beyond the mountains can seem impossibly far away. Growing up, I always carried a quiet longing to travel, to see the world beyond borders, cultures, and familiar paths. Going abroad was once just a dream, one that required courage, belief, and the willingness to step into the unknown.
Choosing to pursue this opportunity meant daring to trust myself, to believe that someone from a small country could take a step toward a global journey and truly belong to the world. And I always knew going abroad would change me as a person and help me grow.
Why did you choose Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program?
The Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program was exactly what I needed to take my first step toward pursuing opportunities abroad. As an international medical graduate, I was looking for more than just travel. I needed structured clinical exposure, guidance, and a safe entry point into a global healthcare environment.
This program provided that balance perfectly. What stood out most was the opportunity for supervised clinical shadowing with experienced Italian physicians. It allowed me to observe real-world medical practice in a European healthcare system while learning about patient-centered care, communication, and multidisciplinary collaboration. The mentorship I received helped bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical, globally relevant experience.
Equally important was the program’s emphasis on cultural immersion. From navigating daily life in Italy to understanding how culture influences patient care, the experience helped me grow not only as a medical professional but as a person. The support system offered by the program made the transition into a new country feel manageable and empowering, especially for someone taking her first major step abroad.
The Doctors in Italy Fellowship didn’t just offer exposure; it offered clarity. It helped me understand my strengths, refine my goals, and gain confidence in my ability to adapt and thrive in an international setting. It reassured me that pursuing medicine beyond borders was not only possible but achievable.
In every sense, this program was the foundation I needed to begin my global journey in medicine. It combined learning, mentorship, structure, and cultural experience in a way that felt intentional and transformative, making it everything I needed to pursue opportunities abroad with confidence.
The best pizza I ever had.
What was your favorite part about Bari?
My favorite part about Bari and Italy was the way they gently changed me. Bari didn’t rush me, didn’t demand anything from me; it simply invited me to exist. From the very first day, the city felt like a quiet embrace. The sound of the sea, the narrow stone streets, the sun pouring into everyday moments, everything seemed to whisper that life is meant to be felt, not hurried.
In Bari Vecchia, I watched life unfold in its purest form. Grandmothers sitting outside their homes, making pasta with practiced hands. Children playing freely in streets that felt like shared living rooms. Conversations flow without urgency. There was beauty in the ordinary, and meaning in moments that would otherwise go unnoticed. It made me realize how much of my life I had spent chasing the next goal, forgetting to fully live the present one.
Italy taught me that slowing down is not a weakness; it is a form of wisdom. The country showed me how deeply culture, history, and humanity are woven into daily life. Meals were not just about food, but about connection. Walks were not just about reaching a destination, but about noticing the world around you. Even silence felt intentional.
As a young doctor who had spent years in survival mode studying, proving, and enduring, Italy gave me permission to breathe again. It reminded me that caring for others begins with caring for yourself. That you can be dedicated and gentle at the same time. Ambitious and present. Driven, yet deeply human.
And perhaps what touched me the most was realizing that a girl from a small Himalayan country could feel at home so far away. Bari made me feel seen, welcomed, and worthy of occupying space in the world. It was where a long-held dream turned into a lived reality, where I learned that the world is kinder, bigger, and more beautiful than I had imagined.
Bari and Italy didn’t just give me memories. They gave me a new way of seeing life, one I will carry with me wherever I go.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
What made my experience in Italy truly extraordinary was that it felt like a dream I had carried quietly for years had finally come alive. It was not just about observing medicine in a new country or adding an international experience to my resume; it was about discovering myself, my courage, and the kind of doctor I aspire to be.
As a young girl from a small Himalayan country, I had always dreamed of seeing the world beyond my mountains. Going abroad once felt impossible, something too far away to imagine. But stepping into Italy, I realized that dreams are not distant; they are steps waiting to be taken. Every day in the fellowship, I felt myself daring, growing, and belonging in ways I never expected.
Clinically, shadowing doctors in Italy was inspiring beyond words. I witnessed medicine practiced with patience, empathy, and humanity, where listening was as important as diagnosing. I realized that being a good doctor is not just about knowledge, but about presence, compassion, and connection. Watching this in action changed the way I saw my role as a healer.
Bari and the golden light.
Yet, what made this experience extraordinary went beyond the hospital. It was in the golden summers of Bari, walking along cobbled streets, sharing meals with new friends, watching the sun set over the Adriatic Sea, that I felt fully alive. These moments reminded me to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the beauty in both life and learning.
Most of all, it was extraordinary because it gave me courage, the courage to step out of my comfort zone, to trust myself, and to believe that a girl from a small country could dream big, explore the world, and truly belong. Italy showed me that growth is as much about discovering the world as it is about discovering yourself.
This journey will always remain extraordinary to me because it was not just an experience; it was a transformation. It reminded me that pursuing dreams, embracing the unknown, and opening your heart to the world can change you in ways you never imagined.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
The local staff in the Doctors in Italy Fellowship were more than just coordinators; they were my guides, mentors, and friends throughout the entire experience. From the moment I arrived, they made sure I felt welcomed and supported in a new country, helping me navigate everything from the practicalities of daily life to the nuances of the hospital environment.
They patiently answered my questions, guided me through clinical procedures, and provided insights into how the Italian healthcare system works. Their encouragement helped me feel confident in stepping into unfamiliar settings and observing medical practice at an international level. Whenever I faced language barriers or cultural differences, they were there to assist and reassure me, making every challenge feel manageable.
Beyond the professional support, the staff also made me feel at home. They shared local tips, introduced me to the culture and traditions of Bari, and checked in on my well-being. Their warmth and attentiveness created a nurturing environment where I could focus on learning, exploring, and growing both as a doctor and as a person.
Ultimately, the support of the local staff made my experience smoother, richer, and more meaningful. Their guidance and kindness transformed what could have been an overwhelming journey into one of confidence, comfort, and joy. I am truly grateful for them.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
If there is one thing I wish I could have done differently, it would be allowing myself to slow down and be fully present from the very beginning. Like many first-time international participants, I arrived with a sense of responsibility to make the most of every moment learning, observing, and absorbing as much as possible. While this came from gratitude and enthusiasm, it sometimes made me rush through moments that deserved to be savored.
As the program progressed, I learned that growth does not always come from doing more, but from experiencing deeply. Whether it was observing patient interactions, having conversations with mentors, or simply walking through the streets of Bari, I realized that being present added far more meaning than trying to capture everything at once.
This experience taught me the importance of balance between ambition and awareness, learning and living. If I could do it again, I would trust the process sooner, slow down earlier, and remind myself that meaningful experiences unfold naturally when you give them time and space.
Team Interventional Radiology
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
A typical day abroad began with a quiet sense of gratitude. Mornings in Italy were calm and unhurried, often starting with a short walk, a simple breakfast with pistachio cornetto and a cappuccino, and the anticipation of learning something new. I would then head to the hospital for my clinical shadowing, where I observed Italian doctors interact with patients, prepare for the operation, and approach care with patience, empathy, and professionalism.
During my time in the clinical setting, I paid close attention not only to medical decision-making, but also to communication, teamwork, and the doctor–patient relationship. Each day offered valuable lessons that extended beyond textbooks, reminding me that medicine is as much about humanity as it is about science.
After the hospital hours, my days often unfolded into moments of exploration and reflection. I spent afternoons and evenings walking through the streets of Bari, sitting by the sea, journaling, or sharing meals with fellow participants. If not, we would go to nearby places like Monopoli, Polignano a Mare, where we could soak in that Apulian sun. These moments allowed me to process what I had learned and truly absorb the cultural experience around me.
Evenings were slower and deeply grounding, filled with conversations, sunsets, and a sense of contentment. Each day struck a beautiful balance between professional growth and personal discovery, making my life abroad feel intentional, enriching, and unforgettable.
Can you tell the Italian sun looks good on me ?
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
During my free time, I loved spending time by the sea, watching the waves and sunsets, and allowing myself to pause after busy clinical days. Journaling, reading, and sitting in silence helped me process everything I was learning both professionally and personally. These moments of stillness were just as meaningful as my time in the hospital.
I also enjoyed sharing meals and conversations with fellow participants and locals. Food in Italy was not just about eating, but about connection and community. Through these shared moments, I felt a deep sense of belonging and gratitude.
Most of all, I enjoyed exploring Italy with an open heart, embracing curiosity, joy, and wonder. My free time became an extension of my learning, teaching me how beautiful it can be to live slowly, intentionally, and fully.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I stayed in program-arranged accommodation that was comfortable, safe, and conveniently located, which made settling into life in a new country much easier. The space was well-maintained and thoughtfully set up, allowing me to focus on my clinical experience and daily routine without added stress.
What I liked most about the accommodation was how it truly felt like a home away from home. After long days at the hospital, it was a peaceful place to rest, reflect, and recharge. Sharing the space with fellow participants also created a sense of community. We exchanged stories, supported one another, and formed meaningful connections that became an important part of the experience.
Its location allowed easy access to both the hospital and the city, giving me the freedom to explore Bari during my free time. Overall, the accommodation offered comfort, safety, and companionship, which played a significant role in making my experience abroad smooth, memorable, and enjoyable.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
One thing every future participant should know before beginning the Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program is that this experience will change you in ways that go far beyond clinical learning. It is not just about observing medicine in a new healthcare system; it is about growth, adaptability, and self-discovery.
Coming in with an open mind and an open heart makes all the difference. The more willing you are to embrace cultural differences, ask questions, and step outside your comfort zone, the richer the experience becomes. Some of the most valuable lessons happen quietly through conversations, observations, and moments of reflection.
This program offers guidance and structure, but it also gives you the freedom to explore, learn, and find clarity about your future path. Trust the process, slow down, and allow yourself to fully experience both the professional and personal aspects of the journey. What you gain from this program may stay with you long after it ends.
Would you recommend Shadow Doctors in Italy's Best Hospitals to others? Why?
Absolutely, I would wholeheartedly recommend the Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program to anyone considering international clinical experience. The program offers more than just exposure to medicine abroad; it provides mentorship, structured learning, cultural immersion, and personal growth all in one.
The staff and local team are incredibly supportive, ensuring that participants feel welcomed, guided, and confident from the very first day. The clinical experience allows you to observe medicine practiced with empathy, professionalism, and cultural awareness, giving a truly global perspective on patient care.
Beyond the hospital, the program encourages participants to explore, reflect, and connect with the culture and community, making the experience unforgettable. For anyone looking to expand their horizons, gain confidence in an international setting, and grow as both a doctor and a person, this program is an extraordinary opportunity.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The biggest benefit of traveling abroad, in my experience, is the way it expands both your perspective and your sense of self. Being immersed in a new culture, healthcare system, and way of life challenges you to step outside your comfort zone, adapt, and learn in ways that go far beyond textbooks or traditional training.
Traveling abroad allows you to see medicine and life from a global lens. You witness different approaches to patient care, communication, and collaboration, and you learn to appreciate that there are many paths to excellence. At the same time, you discover your own strengths, resilience, and ability to navigate the unknown.
For me personally, traveling abroad also offered a rare gift of reflection and growth. It gave me the space to reconnect with my dreams, appreciate the beauty of diversity, and gain clarity about my path as a doctor and as a person. Ultimately, the biggest benefit is not just what you learn about the world but what you learn about yourself in the process.
Monopoli
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Now that I’m home, I realize that my time abroad didn’t end when the program did it continues to shape the way I see myself, my career, and my life. The experience gave me a renewed sense of confidence and clarity. Having navigated a new country, culture, and healthcare system, I now trust my ability to adapt, grow, and pursue opportunities beyond familiar boundaries.
Professionally, the exposure to patient-centered care and global medical practices has influenced how I approach learning and medicine moving forward. I am more mindful of empathy, communication, and balance values I witnessed daily during my time in Italy and ones I now carry into my own journey as a doctor.
On a personal level, the experience changed me even more deeply. It reminded me that it is okay to dream beyond what feels familiar and to take courageous steps toward those dreams. As a girl from a small Himalayan country, traveling abroad showed me that the world is more welcoming than I once imagined and that I belong in it.
Most importantly, my time abroad taught me how to slow down, be present, and live with intention. I returned home not just with memories, but with a stronger sense of self, gratitude, and purpose, less afraid of the unknown and more excited about what lies ahead.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel, to me, is more than visiting new places; it is about growth, connection, and self-discovery. It means stepping out of your comfort zone and immersing yourself fully in a new culture, a new way of life, and new perspectives. Meaningful travel challenges you to see the world through different lenses while reflecting on your own values, dreams, and purpose.
For me, traveling abroad was meaningful because it allowed me to learn in ways that went far beyond classrooms or textbooks. I experienced medicine in a global context, connected deeply with people, and explored a culture that reshaped how I see life and myself. Every street I walked, every conversation I had, and every challenge I faced became part of a journey that taught me empathy, resilience, and gratitude.
Ultimately, meaningful travel is about transformation, returning home not just with memories, but with insights, confidence, and a renewed sense of who you are and who you aspire to be. It is about letting the world teach you as much about yourself as it does about the places you visit.
