David Dao

My placement with Work The World was an amazing experience that I would recommend to any pharmacy student. Being a PharmD major with two internships, I have found it extremely difficult to find study abroad programs that fit my schedule.

Because short-term programs were offered through Work the World, I found that I could fit in my 68-hour workweek schedule. With Work The World, every single detail was organised prior to arrival. They made sure that I had malpractice insurance, and the entire pre-departure package ensured a smooth transition into the WTW house. The food selection that was offered was fantastic as well, and they also made sure that we had access to local SIM cards for our phones and a proper currency exchanger.

Both working in a local hospital and visiting an Ayurvedic hospital gave me two different experiences of pharmacy in this country. Witnessing the contrast between allopathic and homeopathic medicine opened my eyes to the challenges that traditional and nontraditional healthcare professionals may face. Also, seeing how far both types of healthcare professionals stretch money in their hospitals instilled in me a deep respect for professionals who ensure quality healthcare on a minimal budget.

Not only do you see the world, but you see it through the eyes of medics - something that will challenge you and inspire you to grow. I will never forget this experience and hope I’ll see you there!

Because I spent two weeks in the hospital, I only got a small taste of how pharmacy was practiced there. Having professionals show me around was great as they were extremely experienced. I had the opportunity to shadow them and seeing what they did on a day-to-day basis was awesome. Working with them in the General Ward, Endoscopy and Radiology gave me an all-encompassing experience within Nepali medicine.

In terms of advice I’d give to other Pharmacy students; it is important to be confident, but know when and when not to assist. Also, working in different areas of Kathmandu’s hospital is important, and staff will help organize all of your needs within the placement.     

Traveling to Pokhara at the end of my trip was awesome too and really opened my eyes to different parts of the country. The experience was amazing and definitely made me want to go back at some point - traveling to Pokhara is a great way to get an overall feel of Nepal and gave me space to reflect on the trip and see the natural beauty of the Himalayan mountains.

If you have the opportunity to go, even if just for two weeks, I would definitely recommend it. The opportunity of personal and professional growth to be had on this trip is indispensable. Not only do you see the world, but you see it through the eyes of medics - something that will challenge you and inspire you to grow. I will never forget this experience and hope I’ll see you there!