GoAbroad

Alumni Interview with Karla Rica Piccio

Here's what it's like to go on an Atlantis program!

Karla Rica Piccio

Karla Rica Piccio

Participated in 2018Intern Abroad | Spain

Karla was born in the Philippines but she currently lives in Texas and attends Texas Tech University. She is majoring in Human Development and Family Studies. Karla recently traveled to Spain, Scotland, and England, and she plans on becoming a Child Life Specialist before applying for Medical School.

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What inspired you to go abroad? 

I've always been interested in different cultures and learning about them.

Why did you choose Atlantis? 

I chose Atlantis because it gives you an edge in your pursuit for medicine. It allows you to experience healthcare in different countries, and it will give you an opportunity to gain more knowledge in the field of medicine. It also gives you an opportunity to create professional relationships with doctors and surgeons. The Atlantis Fellowship is a great opportunity.

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Muchas gracias por todo

What was your favorite part about Spain? 

Burgos, Spain could easily have been my second home. The city and the people were so welcoming, and I felt comfortable and at home. 

What made your experience abroad unique? 

The doctors were so excited to teach me more about their respective fields. They helped me learn so much more than I could ever have expected.

How did local staff support you throughout your program? 

The local staff were kind. They were there to listen when we were in need, and they helped us feel comfortable in Burgos.

What's one thing you wish you would have done differently? 

I wish I would have come in with more knowledgeable of biology, but it's ok that I didn’t because the doctors I encountered were so kind and taught me so much. The doctors were definitely one of the biggest highlights of the internship.

Describe a typical day in the life of your program. 

Wake up 6 a.m., eat breakfast, and be ready to leave for the hospital by 7:15 a.m. We walked to a public transportation bus and rode it to the hospital. We shadowed typically from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the rest of the day was for us to do as we please. We had group dinners and excursion events that were planned as part of the program.

What did you enjoy doing in your free time? 

Being able to explore Burgos and try out the different foods they served. 

What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it? 

We lived in a dormitory at a local university. The best part for me was that me and the other fellows in my group were all together in one building. We were able to interact and share our experiences with each other.

What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program? 

If you're going into this by yourself, don't be afraid. Be excited! Open your mind to the different people you will encounter; this will help you grow with empathy and as a person.

Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life? 

It's easily one of my favorite memories and experiences. Everything I have learned and experienced will help propel me to work harder in school and reach for my dreams. When i'm stuck in a rut, looking back at these memories will help motivate me to keep going.

Would you recommend Atlantis to others? Why? 

Atlantis gives you an edge in your pursuit for medicine. It allows you to experience healthcare in different countries, and it will give you an opportunity to gain more knowledge in the field of medicine. It also gives you an opportunity to create professional relationships with doctors and surgeons. The Atlantis Fellowship is a great opportunity.

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