Lana Ali

I always wanted to go abroad during my studies – to see how hospitals and daily life differ from back home. Mixing travel with meeting new people, exploring new places, and learning was the best combination ever.

At first, my placement hospital felt overwhelming. There were patients everywhere, little structure, and less hygiene than I’m used to. But people make the most of what they have. The staff are super resourceful and focused on helping, doing whatever they can.

I learned a lot about how the healthcare system works in the Philippines. For example, patients need to buy their own medicine before a procedure can happen, and they always need someone (“a bantay”) with them — they’re not allowed to be alone. I also got to practice cannulation, which I always wanted to try but wasn’t allowed to do back home.

We added a T-tube during fluoroscopy, and I got to see how that was tested. Another moment was during a breast ultrasound — a woman who had been cancer-free five months ago suddenly had 12 tumours.

Things are much less digital here — most hospitals use pen and paper for patient information, while in the Netherlands, everything is online. Hygiene is also very different; they don’t always clean up after patients, and staff are much less cautious about radiation. We students were well protected, though, always given a lead apron or told when to “hide.” Also, if a patient hasn’t brought contrast or medication beforehand, the procedure doesn’t happen.

Honestly, one of my favourite parts was after placement. We’d go to the pool, spa, or mall, or get our nails and lashes done. Wednesdays were activity days organised by WTW staff — pottery, shooting ranges, etc. Thursdays were barbecue and karaoke nights, and we’d often go out in Iloilo after. Karaoke nights with the students and staff were definitely my highlight. Weekends meant island hopping and trips to places like Boracay, Gigantes, El Nido, and Coron — unforgettable bonding moments with the other students.

It’s so eye-opening to see how healthcare works in another country, especially where there are fewer resources. I’ve come out of my shell more — more independent, social, and grateful. Sharing space with others and learning about different cultures really teaches you things you’d never learn by staying in your own country.

I was so nervous at first — scared I wouldn’t make friends or that it would be too hard. I never really “take risks.” But honestly? This has been the best decision of my life. Everyone says it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it really is. If you get the chance: do it! You won’t regret it.

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