As my time in the Comparative Healthcare in Graz program comes to a close, I’ve found myself reflecting not just on the lectures and assignments, but on the countless moments of learning that happened outside the classroom—in the cobblestone streets of Graz, the quiet corners of Vinzidorf, the peaceful Slovenian countryside, on trains gliding between cities, and in brief conversations with locals. These experiences shaped me just as profoundly as any formal academic setting. They challenged me to see with new eyes, to listen differently, and to engage the world more fully.
One of the most powerful lessons I’ll carry with me is the importance of humility in both learning and service. Whether it was figuring out the tram system in German, asking for food in a language I didn’t speak fluently, or observing how healthcare workers navigated challenges with quiet resilience and compassion despite having a more limited pay, I was constantly reminded that knowledge isn’t just acquired but is earned through presence, vulnerability, and curiosity. I met people who devoted their lives to serving others, not for recognition or financial reward, but out of a deep sense of community responsibility. Their stories reminded me that humility is foundational to effective care, in addition to being a compassionate human being.
Another takeaway I’ll carry forward is the value of slowing down and observing. In the U.S., especially as a university student, I’m used to operating under pressure and always being more, moving faster, and producing results quicker. However, in Austria and Slovenia, I encountered a different rhythm of life. Whether it was the intentional design of public spaces, the thoughtful infrastructure that promotes access and well-being, or the slower, more reflective pace of daily life, I learned to be still and pay attention to everything around me. That shift in pace altered my perspective on rest, productivity, and presence.
As I return to the University of Pittsburgh, I plan to carry these lessons into every space I inhabit. Academically, I aim to approach my studies not only with diligence but also with cultural awareness, seeking to understand how healthcare systems and beliefs vary across different communities. I want to explore how policy, equity, and history can influence societies and systems. Personally, I’m committed to being more mindfully present with my peers, my mentors, and myself. I want to slow down when it matters to truly listen and to be the kind of person who creates space for others. Professionally, this program has sharpened my interest in global health and reaffirmed my commitment to equitable and inclusive care. I’m more inspired than ever to pursue opportunities that expand my view of what medicine can be. Ultimately, this program helped me see the world more clearly.
