5. As your program comes to a close, reflect on the outside of the classroom lessons that you have learned. How do you plan to apply these and take them forward into the rest of your academic career at Pitt and beyond?

The main lesson that comes to mind is a rather simple one – don’t be shy! On my study abroad program, one of the best ways I learned was through interacting with the student workers who helped guide us, or by interacting with the locals. One night out at a restaurant, I met someone who lived in Austria but was originally from California, and she turned out to be a great friend while I was in Austria. She was able to give us recommendations of things to do, and tips so we could experience the culture more like locals. I also was able to learn a lot about healthcare, which was the focus of my program, by talking to people. When they would ask what I was doing there, I was able to share about my program, which then segued into them sharing their thoughts on healthcare or me being able to ask them questions. Some of the most important aspects of the Austrian healthcare system I learned by talking to people. At Pitt, I would say that it is easier for me to go about my day without talking to someone I normally wouldn’t. When I was in Austria, there was a lot I didn’t know, so we often had to ask someone where to find the nearest bathroom, or how to navigate the public transportation which opened up the opportunity for conversations and further my learning. I can apply this same mindset at Pitt, whether I am working in my hospital where I can talk to new patients or clinicians, or even just in class to make new friends. The people around us can be such a great resource, and studying abroad reminded me just how important it is.