Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program

I did doctors in Italy for 3 weeks from late June to mid July and the experience is once I can never forget. I had so much fun on this trip and it was like no other! Every week I am somehow reminded of the time I spent here and after the trip I was inspired to learn Italian!

I spent two weeks in Trieste shadowing the OB and Pediatrics departments!! It was so amazing and our guide was awesome. I learned so much and made amazing connections with memories that will stay with me forever :)

It was an extraordinary experience that allowed me to gain firsthand insight into how medicine is practiced in Italy. Throughout my stay, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in a completely different cultural and professional environment, which broadened my perspective both personally and academically. I learned extensively from highly skilled physicians, whose dedication and expertise greatly enriched my understanding of clinical practice. Additionally, I was able to observe a wide range of surgical procedures, including robotic surgeries, catheterizations, neck surgeries, and several other complex interventions. Each of these experiences contributed significantly to my appreciation of the precision, innovation, and teamwork involved in modern medical care. Beyond the clinical setting, I was fortunate to explore the country, enjoy its remarkable culinary traditions, and visit many places across Italy. This combination of professional growth and cultural immersion made the experience truly unforgettable, including great friends I got to make

Italy has always been romantic in my imagination soft light, slow mornings, conversations spilling into the streets. But nothing prepared me for what Bari would make me feel. From the moment I stepped into the old town, Bari felt like a beautiful contradiction: ancient yet youthful, calm yet full of life, familiar yet completely new. The sea breeze carried this quiet kind of confidence, as if whispering, “You’re exactly where you’re meant to be.” And for the first time in a long time, I believed it. Every day began with the same ritual cobblestone streets under my feet, the scent of fresh focaccia in the air, and the Adriatic Sea glimmering like it had a story to tell. But the heart of my trip wasn’t just the beauty of the city… it was the shadowing program. Walking into the oncology hospital for the first time, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. But as the days passed, I realized this experience was more than clinical exposure it was a lesson in humanity. I watched doctors heal not just with knowledge, but with presence. I learned how medicine is practiced with empathy, patience, and culture woven into every interaction. I saw how health, life, and community coexist differently in this corner of the world. There were moments that changed me quietly: a gentle smile from a patient, a doctor explaining a concept with passion, the hum of the ward in the early morning light. And there were moments that changed me loudly: standing in a foreign country realizing, “I chose this path. And I’m growing into it.” Bari taught me to slow down. The program taught me to rise up. Together, they reminded me why I fell in love with medicine in the first place. When I wasn’t shadowing, I wandered. I let the city show me its secrets tiny alleys where grandmothers make orecchiette by hand, sunsets that look like oil paintings, laughter echoing from balconies, and late-night gelato that tasted like pure joy. Bari didn’t just welcome me… it embraced me. I left Italy with more than memories. I left with clarity, courage, and a heart that feels just a little bit braver. If travel is meant to transform you, and medicine is meant to ground you, then my time in Bari was the perfect intersection of both. They helped me rediscover the version of myself I had been searching for. And a chapter I’ll carry with me forever.

I haven't yet had the opportunity to participate in the Doctors in Italy program, but I've followed everything closely through a friend who went—and her experience simply blew me away. She described the program as one of the most transformative experiences of her life, both personally and academically. What struck me most was how she was able to learn from professionals in different specialties, observe hospital routines, exchange knowledge, and build a real network with people from various countries. She came back talking about how inspiring it was to see medicine from another perspective, more humanized, more global, and more connected. In addition to the technical learning, she also experienced Italian culture intensely, meeting new people, cities, stories, and ways of seeing the world. It was a complete immersion: medicine, culture, language, friendship, and professional growth—all at the same time. Even without having gone yet, I've already talked to the team on Instagram, and they were simply sensational! I realized how special this program is, and how it has become a lifelong dream. This is the kind of opportunity that opens doors, broadens horizons, and transforms careers. I have enormous admiration for the project and a huge desire to live this experience myself. I very much hope that my next step will be to be in Italy with the program, learning, growing, and taking with me all that is most beautiful about medicine.

My time with Doctors in Italy was nothing short of extraordinary. Participating in clinical rotations at the leading hospital in Alessandria, completely reshaped my understanding of medicine and helped me discover what I truly wanted for my future in the field. Throughout the program, I had the opportunity to rotate through multiple medical services, each offering a unique perspective on patient care and clinical decision-making. From internal medicine to surgery, emergency care, and specialized departments, every rotation challenged me, inspired me, and deepened my passion for medicine. The physicians and healthcare teams were incredibly welcoming and eager to teach, allowing me to observe real cases, engage in meaningful discussions, and witness firsthand the precision, compassion, and teamwork required in high-quality medical practice. This experience broadened my vision of what it means to be a physician. It pushed me to grow not only academically but also personally reinforcing my commitment to pursue medicine with purpose, empathy, and global awareness. Being immersed in the Italian healthcare system, learning from exceptional professionals, and exploring diverse medical specialties gave me clarity about the path I want to follow. Doctors in Italy was more than a program; it was a turning point. I left Alessandria inspired, motivated, and profoundly grateful for the opportunity. It is an experience I will carry with me throughout my medical journey.

I had a wonderful time working with a veterinarian in Italy and making so many new friends from around the US and the world! We all became fast friends and took many trips around Italy and Florence during our free time. I was able to go to Sienna as they were setting up for the horse races, I was able to go to the Uffizi gallery, and pisa. I had the most amazing lasagna at trattoria Marione! I was able to learn so much about horses and what goes into their senior care. It was so amazing to work with sanctuaries that respected animals just as I do. It was an unforgettable experience. I wish I could go again!

I think the Doctors in Italy program changed my perspective on the idea of healthcare globally, and it showed me how to appreciate the technology we have for healthcare in general. The other main takeaway from this trip was the amount of friends that I still keep in touch with from the trip. We all bonded so fast and became close so quickly. What a wonderful experience that I think everyone deserves to have!

I met the best people I could have ever known, I had a blast during shadowing hours, (almost) all the doctors were very available, friendly and helpful, they encouraged us to ask questions and engage even in the ORs. Milan is the best city where to experience the surgical shadowing!

I haven't yet had the opportunity to participate in the Doctors in Italy program, but I've followed everything closely through a friend who went—and her experience simply blew me away. She described the program as one of the most transformative experiences of her life, both personally and academically. What struck me most was how she was able to learn from professionals in different specialties, observe hospital routines, exchange knowledge, and build a real network with people from various countries. She came back talking about how inspiring it was to see medicine from another perspective, more humanized, more global, and more connected. In addition to the technical learning, she also experienced Italian culture intensely, meeting new people, cities, stories, and ways of seeing the world. It was a complete immersion: medicine, culture, language, friendship, and professional growth—all at the same time. Even without having gone yet, I've already talked to the team on Instagram, and they were simply sensational! I realized how special this program is, and how it has become a lifelong dream. This is the kind of opportunity that opens doors, broadens horizons, and transforms careers. I have enormous admiration for the project and a huge desire to live this experience myself. I very much hope that my next step will be to be in Italy with the program, learning, growing, and taking with me all that is most beautiful about medicine.

Doctors in Italy was exactly what I was looking for. It is very difficult as a premed student to find access to shadowing experience in the US. The doctors and residents are great and really want you to learn as much as you can with your time. It was a very unique experience. Out of the hospital the program provides amazing opportunities for you to bond with your peers and see/experience Italy’s culture. The program coordinators had great communication and were there for you with whatever you needed. Truly you can’t find a better opportunity than this one. It will be very difficult to leave after your time is up there. It exceeded every expectation I had and was more than worth it!

Really excited about the upcoming journey with Doctors in Italy in Rome in the month of May. To be honest this fellowship can not only map my skill in medicine, but also lead a greater insight into the way global healthcare will be seen. Amazing mentorship so far from their team, looking forward an experience of lifetime.

I joined the Rome program in the summer of my first year of medical school in Istanbul. The mix of medicine and social opportunities gave me an absolute blast of a time! Now in my fifth year of uni looking back, I remember my time at Doctors in Italy always with a huge smile. I met great people and made great memories. In the beginning of my medical journey, this experience was eye opening and broadened my vision for healthcare across different countries.

When I joined Doctors in Italy, I was still a pre-med student at LAU learning medicine through textbooks and lectures. The idea of seeing everything come to life felt distant until this program changed it. It gave me the chance to witness medicine up close, transforming theory into reality and deepening my passion for this ever-evolving field. Learning a concept is one thing; seeing it unfold in front of you is entirely different. On the first day, when the schedules were announced and I learned I’d be placed with the orthopedics team, I felt a wave of doubt convinced I was starting my experience on the wrong foot since orthopedics wasn't initially in my fields of interest — however, this experience proved me wrong. I still clearly remember shadowing Dr. Flavio Olivelli and watching my first hip-replacement surgery, I never realized how intricate orthopedics really is and getting to learn it under a doctor that passionate about his work, who actually takes the time to let you observe and learn, made it even better. A core memory I still cherish was seeing my first C-section, watching a whole team work together to safely bring a baby into the world was something I’ll never forget. Moments like these are opportunities of a lifetime, especially in a field as competitive and challenging as medicine. This program offered not only exposure to real clinical practice, but also the chance to learn from physicians who practice with genuine passion. It shaped me on both a professional and personal level, I met inspiring fellow students, built international friendships I still cherish, and felt deeply welcomed by the Italian culture, which reminded me of home in Lebanon. Doctors in Italy is truly one-of-a-kind. They say we are mosaics of the people we meet; I am grateful for this experience and the role it played in shaping the doctor I aspire to become. I encourage every future physician to take part in this journey, it’s one you’ll carry with you forever.

My Medical Exchange in Bologna, Italy My medical exchange in Bologna was an unforgettable experience, both personally and professionally. I was lucky to have Alessandra as my supervisor — she truly made all the difference. Always cheerful, friendly, and incredibly supportive, she was constantly available to help with anything I needed and made me feel at home from day one. During my internship in Oncology, I’ve learned closely with Dr. Giacomo, a resident who went above and beyond to make sure I understood everything that was happening during the consultations. He patiently explained each case, reviewed important topics with me, and even translated the appointments into English in real time so I could follow every detail. One of the highlights of the exchange was the friendships I built. I met Nandana (India), Claudia (USA), and Vitória (Brazil) — amazing people who made the internship lighter and so much more enjoyable. My friendship with Vitória continues to this day; we even traveled to see each other after the Doctors in Italy program! I stayed in a student residence with new, comfortable accommodations and a perfect location. Having everyone stay in the same place made it easy to connect, share experiences, and create strong friendships. I’m deeply grateful to the Doctors in Italy program for this incredible opportunity. It was an enriching experience that strengthened my passion for medicine and allowed me to learn, grow, and create memories that I will carry for life.

During my trip to Perugia, I learned so much about Italy’s culture, a bit of the language, and met people that I still talk to today, two and a half years later. My experience revolved around rescues and refuges, and being able to see all the different species in Italy, and our vet who showed us how to examine them, was so inspiring! It made me want to switch my focus to exotic animals rather than small animals. It was an amazing experience, and one that I will remember forever!

This is the best Medicine program, if you want to study this beautiful career, or you are already studying, you have to live this incredible experience. you will grow in soul and heart. You will love more the Medicine

The 2-week Milan Fellowship I attended was very thoughtful structured according to the our liking and interest. Throughout these two weeks I had the opportunity to observe and shadow doctors in almost 5departments as well be present in the operating room for 6 procedures. Although the primary interactions were completely in Italian the Doctor in charge translated all the case details the best he/she could. Even though this course dosen’t require knowing the language, I do suggest that having some knowledge of Italian would definitely go a long way. But, overall this program is a great balance of work, travel experiences and an opportunity to make new friends as well as build connections:)

From this experience, I felt more comfortable around large and farm animals. I participated in a realistic way of working in the field taking portal ultrasounds of horses with asthma, laminitis and Cushing's disease; conducted fecal examination outdoors for sheeps, goats, donkeys and horses; and learned about bovine and equine anatomy through physical examinations. I developed a new appreciation for sanctuaries because these environments thrive off the selflessness of devoted volunteers, constant donations, and mobile veterinarians. I learned about equine massage therapy from one of the volunteers who noted the different points to release pressure. This moment emphasizes why teamwork is critical and how collaboration is needed to complete a job thoroughly and holistically.

I had such an amazing time in Italy. I was able to learn so much about the medical field in other countries and was able to meet so many great people. We had plenty of time to explore Italy and spend time enjoying the culture.

One of the things I liked the most was that I had the experience of living as a local in Italy, being immersed not only in the Italian healthcare system but also in the culture. It was very enriching for me. Also, I made a lot of friends from different countries and I was able to gain some insight about not only the differences in the healthcare system and medical schools in different countries but also learned that we have so much in common as medical students. I think having those kinds of friendships is a good network for the future.

My experience with the Doctors in Italy program in Milan was absolutely unforgettable. Shadowing doctors across various specialties, including but not limited to cardiology, gynecology, and the neonatal department, was an incredible opportunity that opened my eyes to the world of medicine in ways I never thought possible. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with warmth and enthusiasm by the program coordinators and the medical staff alike. The hands-on experience I gained, coupled with the chance to observe and learn from skilled professionals in their field, was invaluable to my personal and professional growth. Each day brought new insights and challenges, and I was amazed by the dedication and expertise of the doctors I shadowed. Whether it was witnessing life-saving procedures in the cardiology department or experiencing the miracle of childbirth in the gynecology ward, every moment left a lasting impression on me. Not only did I gain invaluable medical knowledge, but I also formed lifelong friendships with fellow participants from around the world. Exploring Milan and immersing myself in Italian culture added an extra layer of richness to an already unforgettable experience. I cannot recommend the Doctors in Italy program highly enough to anyone considering a career in medicine. It's a summer I will cherish forever, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of it. Thank you to everyone involved for making this experience truly unforgettable.

My experience shadowing abroad in Bologna, Italy for 5 weeks was incredible. We got to see several different specialties such as dermatology, cardiology, oncology, etc. After shadowing for about six hours in the morning, we would go out to group meals or activities, like cooking classes, where we got to be fully immersed in the Italian culture. On Fridays, we went on group excursions outside of Bologna to other Italian cities like Ferrara, Modena, and Parma where we got to see different parts of Italy and learn even more. On the weekends, my other fellows and I would plan our own trips to different cities, such as Venice and Florence, and spend time having fun together. Overall, the experience not only helped me gain exposure to the medical field by allowing me to gain 100 clinical shadowing hours but also fostered lasting friendships and lifetime memories.

Undertaking the Doctors in Italy program in June 2022 was one of the best experiences of my life to date. As an aspiring doctor (and surgeon), this program exposed me to a variety of hospital and clinical experiences that exacerbated and confirmed my desire to enter the medical field. Further to that, the chance to undertake this in another country, being Italy, allowed me to be immersed in international healthcare, something that not a lot of people are privileged to experience. Finally, the program allowed me to make lifelong friends with people from around the world (particularly with me being from Australia) and also potential future colleagues. I cannot speak highly enough of this program and recommend it extremely highly.

My two-week fellowship shadowing with Doctors In Italy was truly an unforgettable learning experience that I will carry with me throughout my career. During the two-week session in Rome, I got to observe numerous surgical specialties, experience thought-provoking conversations with residents in clinic settings, begin to understand a different standard of healthcare and patient relations than I was used to and explore the most beautiful city in the world (in my opinion). Our guides, Maria, Naz, and Federico, especially made our experience and adjustment so enjoyable and were supportive in every step of our time there. Lastly, this experience allowed me to meet so many unique and outstanding individuals that I still communicate with, and cannot wait to see what they accomplish in life. Being in a new country for an extended amount of time around professionals and patients who do not speak your native language can be overwhelming, but if you take the opportunity to soak up every experience, you will make the most amazing memories!

This summer abroad was definitely one of the best, if not the best, experiences I've had in my life. Not only are you immersed in a country that has so much history and beauty to it, but you also get to do something you're interested in, while having a lot of fun. The group I was in was amazing, as we all got along so well together, which made it more fun to do things during shadowing and outside of shadowing. Being in the operating rooms was so cool and interesting and made me more cognizant of different types of procedures. Going abroad opened my eyes to differences in other cultures and healthcare, which I think is crucial to being a doctor, as you are faced with needing to be open-minded and look at things in different perspectives.

Doctor’s in Italy was truly a once in a lifetime experience. It gave me, a pre med college student, a chance to jump out of my comfort zone and learn all about the healthcare in another country, while shadowing specialties I was interested in. Shadowing the doctors was nothing short of amazing, I learned so much from them and they were always willing to teach me and explain the procedures they were doing. Outside of the hospital, there were so many chances to immerse yourself in the culture. From several group excursion, dinners, and the opportunity to explore Italy with fellow students, I truly was able to soak in all parts of the culture. Doctors in Italy helped me grow as a pre med student, learn about differences in global healthcare, explore beautiful Italy, and make lifelong friends from all over!

Shadowing doctors in different departments allowed me to realize there are so many specialties to explore. It was really interesting and eye opening to see how different the healthcare system is in Italy compared to the U.S. My favorite part was being in the OR and learning how the tracheotomy and other surgical procedures are performed. I also had a great time with the excursions and visiting all parts of Genova.

My two-week fellowship with the Doctors in Italy Pre-Vet program in Rome was indeed an unforgettable experience. Throughout the program, I, along with the other fellows, observed daily maintenance, feed routines, and veterinary care at two animal sanctuaries. It was amazing to see and learn about the different veterinary practices in a foreign country. At the second sanctuary, it was neat to watch the veterinarian on-site in action during an emergency with a sheep. During that week spent at the second sanctuary, I really enjoyed working with the other fellows as we helped the veterinarian with that case. Aside from the vet shadowing aspect, I had a blast exploring Rome. The program planned great group activities that immersed you into the culture, from site seeing villas, to learning how to make traditional pasta, and group dinners. I also had a fantastic time doing my own site seeing with the other fellows during the free time we had. Overall, it was an amazing two weeks filled with lots of learning and fun!

My time in Italy was absolutely stunning from start to finish. Through the program provided, I got the opportunity to learn all the ins and outs of working with animals in a sanctuary setting, as well as beginning to get involved in clinical work! Doctors in Italy was a wonderful experience to dip your toes into the work of a veterinarian and cemented my desire to go on to vet school. Martina and Cristina were both wonderful providers throughout the program, and I would drop everything to go again given the chance!

I absolutely loved my time with Doctors in Italy in Genova, Italy! I learned so much and made memories that will last a lifetime. The accommodation, hospital staff, and city manager Denise and Matteo were all so wonderful! I even tested positive for COVID-19 at the beginning of my trip, and all were so helpful in accommodating me and my needs during my mandatory 4-day quarantine. I would absolutely go again if given the chance! I can not recommend it enough!

At first, I was nervous about going to an entirely different country, let alone a different continent. However, as the first day went by, I quickly realized that I was in an environment that was not only enriched with a new culture but also safe and full of educational opportunities. We were able to go and shadow experienced doctors at Campus Biomedico and even explore the streets of Rome on our off time. The memories and experiences I have gone through definitely have opened a new way of looking at the medical field for me personally. I will use this trip as a positive influential experience, of which I will use what I learned for my future practice as a medical professional.

Besides managing the program budget to improve business profitability, Doctors in Italy is a marvelous venue for multicultural interaction paving a stronger foundation for a better and more civil sociaty.

I had the most amazing time completing the Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program. This was hands down the best experience I have ever had. It combined my love for medicine with my love for traveling and exploring new cultures. It proved to me that I can exceed when taken out of my comfort one and thrive in new environments. I made friends that have become LIFE LONG friends. I had the opportunity to shadow specialties I had never shadowed in the US and also participate in research. The physician mentors are the kindest and most caring doctors I have interacted with. Despite the short time they know you they are willing to help you and keep in touch and offer their assistance with anything you need even after completing the program. This experience has strengthened my desire to become a physician and instilled in me an interest in global health as I learned a lot abut the healthcare system in Italy which is very different than that of the US. I have nothing negative to say about this experience and I highly encourage anyone who wants a truly genuine and fulfilling experience to embark on this journey.

This is an experience you won't forget. Studying abroad while pre-med is difficult, but this program makes it so simple. Having the program in the summer, and for a maximum of 3 weeks, allows anyone who is interested to join and still intern or work for the rest of the summer. Shadowing during the day with doctors who are eager to help you learn and answer any questions is at the forefront of the trip, but there is still plenty of time for fun! Weekend trips to other cities in Italy, museum visits, castles, beaches, AMAZING food, a cooking class, walking tours, and so much more are included when you sign up. This is easily an experience I will never forget and I'm so glad I applied when I got the email. This trip is worth every euro and more

I did this program the summer of 2018 and it was fantastic. There’s a lot of freedom to do what you want and go out on your own, but the staff still provides you with plenty of tours and trips so that you’re not completely overwhelmed. The doctors at the clinic spoke great English and are pretty good about letting you help with small tasks when it’s appropriate. I highly recommend trying this program it was a great experience.

Doctors in Italy was the best experience I have been apart of. Everyone I met was kind, outgoing, and excited for us to be apart of their program. The hospital was amazing and each and every doctor I met made sure to include me, explain each case, and translated the doctor-patient conversation when they had time so I could follow along. I spent time in the in- patient and out- patient Endocrinology Department, the Hepatology department, and Plastic Surgery. While some days I was in an office, others I was in an operating room watching surgery for the first time. I learned a lot about myself as well as Rome. When I was not in the hospital, I was lucky enough to see the major historical sites of Rome, as well as going on day trips to experience neighboring cities! I met the most amazing people and made memories that will last a life time. Nadia, Anna and Greg were a huge part of what made my experience so memorable, and I am grateful for the opportunity to spend my time in Rome with them. Also, everyone that I contacted responded promptly and provided the necessary information to make the trip successful and easy. If you get the opportunity to be apart of the Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program, please take advantage of it. Every second of the trip was worthwhile and I would do it again without a doubt! As I finished the program and returned home, I took with me new friendships, inspiration to be as hardworking as the doctors I had met, and a new passion to study what I love and interests me.

As an intern at Doctors in Italy, I learned about health care, shadowed doctors, and explored the beautiful city of Rome. This experience was by far the most inspiring and eye opening times of my life. The people at the clinic are kind, intelligent, and the most hardworking people I have ever met. The doctors and administration gave me endless support for my medical school career. I was able to shadow various specialties and even visit the United Nations in Rome. I worked on research projects and learned about health care management. My life was forever changed by my time at Doctors in Italy. This program is a MUST for pre-medical students. I had so much fun and an exceptional shadowing experience!

I had the best time of my life with this program. It was a program that solidified my interest in the medical field. There was so much to learn and so much to explore. Traveling to different cities in Italy and most of all seeing the different tools used from years ago. Seeing the differences in private and public hospitals and having shadowed doctors and surgeons in my field of interest. Not only the medicine or the traveling, but being able to meet new people and create friendships was the best!

I needed an experience that would give me clinical shadowing hours for my resume, but I got much more than that! The program coordinators were quick to respond to my questions over email and text and were very friendly in person. I felt like they were always there to help me when I needed it! The place I stayed at was comfortable and near many restaurants. The doctors I shadowed were warm and welcoming! Many were happy to explain the conditions and treatments for their patients. There were many cultural activities incorporated in the program and I made friends both in the program and at the school where I took classes. I wrote about this experience in my applications to post-baccalaureate programs and with a letter of recommendation from one of the program coordinators, I got into my top choice! I'm thankful I chose this program and would do it all over again if I could.