Joseph Shaw

Having missed out on previous travel opportunities due to the pandemic and my university’s course structure, the chance to do an elective abroad seemed like the perfect way to explore a different country and culture, as well as get experience in a different healthcare system.

Having heard of and researched Southeast Asia, I have always wanted to visit. Going to Hue seemed like the best balance between opportunities to travel and experience a vastly different healthcare system.

The biggest change was the friendliness and generosity of the local people. I always felt safe and welcomed in Hue, and the level of English spoken in the hospital was a pleasant surprise.

I was lucky to travel to Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City during my weekend breaks. Hoi An was beautiful, with lovely scenery and fun activities like the Hai Van Pass motorbike tour and a ride out in the coconut boats. Ho Chi Minh City was very busy, with a lot of history and culture to see. I recommend the Cu Chi Tunnels and the War Remnants Museum.

The best part was getting to experience a brand-new culture. Because you are shadowing local Vietnamese healthcare professionals, you experience the cultural differences first-hand and quickly develop professional relationships with local staff.

Living with other students in the Work the World house was so helpful. Sharing experiences and weekend trip recommendations was useful too. It was also great to be able to meet different students from around the world and travel and explore together.

This was a fantastic opportunity to see a different country, culture and healthcare system and meet some great people!

Read more about our Electives in Asia, and you'll find options in Nepal and beyond.