Elizabeth Malone

Future Family Nurse Practitioner

October, 31st 2023

By: 

Elizabeth Malone

 

I am a nurse practitioner student at Texas Tech University and had the privilege of travelling to Genoa, Italy in April 2023 to study with the Doctors in Italy Program. I earned clinical hours while shadowing physicians and physical therapists and learning the particulars of the Italian healthcare system. Areas of focus included physical therapy/sports medicine, oncology, OR, L&D, pharmacy, and medical floors.

Elizabeth with her group of nursing and nurse practitioner students on the iconic steps of Galliera hospital.

We studied in the beautiful Galliera Hospital, established in 1877 and filled with rich history, including its impressive survival through World War II. The medical professionals that we worked with made us feel so welcome and showed genuine interest in our learning, aiming to create the most educational experience possible. The Italian program coordinators were amazing; they worked so hard to give us a well-rounded and rewarding adventure!

Elizabeth completed the Pre-Health Program

Genoa, Italy

  • 20+ clinical shadowing hours per week
  • Discover 4+ different specialties
  • See how healthcare is practiced IRL
  • 24-hour on-site support

In addition to our clinical hours, we had planned cultural immersion activities that included a historical hospital tour, city walking tour, historic castle excursion, dinner on the beach, and many others. We also had free time to enjoy the amazing scenery, museums, architecture, and cuisine that Genoa has to offer.

Elizabeth capturing the morning's experiences in the Doctors in Italy student journal

Through this experience, I did not just learn about medicine and healthcare in Italy. I experienced the warm culture of the Italian people and broadened my horizons. I learned a lot about myself and grew as a person. I gained confidence and realized I am more capable than I had realized. I made friends who I am still in contact with and memories that I will hold close to my heart for a lifetime. I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to participate in this program – you will thank me later!

Elizabeth taking in the breathtaking view of Positano on one of the program's excursion days

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FELLOWS

In the spotlight

Get to know the Doctors in Italy Fellowship Alumni

Gianni Martin Future Veterinarian From Alabama A&M Shadowed Veterinarians in Milan, Italy

Gianni Martin

Alabama A&M University

"I learned about different aspects of veterinary medicine including animal nutrition and behavior, clinical skills, and caretaking"

Nthabeleng MacDonald Future Doctor From Gallaudet University Shadowing Doctors in Rome, Italy

Nthabeleng MacDonald

Gallaudet University

"There are not many deaf doctors in the world right now, and I want to fill that gap"

Eliana Diaz-Aceituno future doctor from James Madison University shadowed doctors in Italy

Eliana Diaz-Aceituno

James Madison University

"In Italy, the doctor and patient have more of a personal relationship than here in the U.S."