Jessica Rivers

I wanted to experience healthcare in a country where medical practices, resources, and cultures differed. 

I also wanted to be challenged in an unfamiliar environment, where I would have to adapt my communication skills and use the resources available to me to deliver effective patient care and gain a deeper understanding of healthcare practice in another country. 

I chose Kathmandu because it offered a wide range of different medical conditions and unique cultural practices. 

I wanted to understand how healthcare professionals in a developing nation maximised the use of limited resources, and I wanted to experience a different culture. This would make me appreciate the healthcare system in my country, develop my practice skills, and facilitate my growth, not only as a medical professional but on a personal level, too. 

I was most surprised by the cultural richness and diversity in Nepal. There were so many fun festivals, such as Buddha’s birthday, where I experienced the religious traditions and visited the Buddhist temples. I also visited Hindu ceremonial grounds, which were fascinating. 

During my time in Nepal, I noticed that people from all different backgrounds and religions live together in harmony. Everyone is considered a brother or sister in Nepal! 

There was so much to see and do during the weekends and after placement. My housemates and I went to Chitwan National Park for a weekend on a jungle safari. 

We rode a boat down the river, followed by a jungle walk and a jeep safari. We saw crocodiles, elephants, monkeys, sloths, rhinos, and over 40 bird species! In the evening, we went to a cultural show to see the dances of the Tharu people of Nepal. We also went to a Tharu village and learnt about how they build houses, catch fish, and farm rice. Going to Chitwan was an incredible experience I would highly recommend!

Being exposed to a different culture, I have enhanced my cultural sensitivity and communication skills, whilst broadening my medical knowledge and increasing my understanding of different healthcare systems. Additionally, I was able to build my professional network which will allow for future opportunities.  

From a personal perspective, I developed my language skills and confidence. I have grown a lot as a person. 

Everyone at the Work the World house was in the same boat at the beginning; excited but also nervous. We bonded very quickly and became almost like a big family. We explored Nepal together, learnt from one another, and had so many laughs!

Everyone was so supportive and kind, and I made friends for life. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to have shared my overseas experience. 

If you’re thinking about undertaking a Work the World placement, stay open-minded, embrace the different practices and cultural norms, and see everything as an opportunity to learn. The experience will ultimately shape you into not only a better professional but also a better person!