Second year medical student Andy McKinlay travelled to Arequipa in Peru as part of his overseas medical placement with Work the World.
My clinical placement in Peru was the most unique and valuable experience of my life.
Local hospital staff were forgiving of my poor Spanish, and there was always someone willing to try to help me understand. I quickly learned that to get the most from my time at the hospital, I needed to be outgoing, proactive, and friendly.
To say that I learned more about different cultures, medicine, and myself over the few months I was in Peru than ever before would not be overstating it.
With a positive attitude and an enthusiasm for learning, I am certain that anyone else considering an overseas placement will have an amazing journey.
