University of Florida, Madoka Suwa (6th year, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy *at the time)

I participated in a four-week practical training at the University of Florida. There, I visited various facilities such as hospitals, pharmacies, clinics, and research institutions, and learned about the work of pharmacists in each setting. What left a particularly strong impression on me was a clinic that primarily serves patients with financial difficulties. It was a distinctive clinic, characteristic of the United States, which does not have a universal health insurance system. In addition to the patients' illnesses, the clinic paid close attention to the surrounding circumstances, such as treatment costs and accessibility to medical facilities, and I felt they were able to provide the most optimal support for their patients.

Furthermore, doctors, pharmacists, and care workers worked in the same room, sharing their opinions with one another. There was an environment for frank exchange of views that transcended professional roles and positions, demonstrating a thorough implementation of team-based medical care. It was very refreshing to see local students, who were also training at the clinic, openly exchanging opinions, something I had not often seen during my practical training in Japan.

On my days off, I went out with local students and had many experiences while enjoying the differences in culture and values. Since Florida has many students from Central and South America, I was able to experience a multinational culture through music, food, and more, and I believe I was able to lead a stimulating life every day. It was also thrilling to see wild alligators on campus.

I recommend this overseas practical training program because it allows you to gain a wide range of knowledge, not only about the differences in healthcare systems abroad but also about other cultures and things you couldn't experience in Japanese practical training. I applied with some anxiety, worrying that it might overlap with my graduation research and job hunting, but I am so glad I took on the challenge, as I was given such a valuable opportunity while still a student. If you are hesitant, I encourage you to be brave and give it a try.