Brooke Dewar

I decided to go overseas for my placement because I wanted to experience a different approach to healthcare and use the opportunity to do something outside the comfort of my local healthcare system.

Part of being a good healthcare professional means appreciating cultural differences in medicine.

A previous student recommended Work the World, and I saw that Vietnam was an option on their list.

I thought it would be perfect for me to explore a new country.

I really did not know what to expect when I went to Vietnam, and I was really surprised at how much there was to see and do there.

Even though we were travelling every weekend, we didn’t get to see it all. I have fallen in love with Vietnam, and I can’t wait to come back.

I couldn’t pick a favourite weekend trip — we packed so much into our time here. Phong Nha was spectacular!

Our weekend trips alongside our placement enabled us to create memories that will last a lifetime.

The benefits of undertaking my placement overseas include experiencing a new culture and a different way to provide healthcare. It has been the most incredible opportunity.

Combining study with travel means being immersed in a dynamic clinical environment during the week and exploring on the weekend, creating a truly enriching life experience.

Living in the Work the World house with fellow students creates a sense of community.

Everyone is going through a similar experience and supporting each other. Sharing daily life helps build lasting friendships, and travelling together on weekends as a group makes exploring more fun and strengthens these bonds. The trip becomes so much more than just a placement.

An overseas placement may feel daunting, but it’s one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll have as a student.

You’ll experience medicine from a new perspective, meet incredible people, grow in ways you did not expect, and come home with unforgettable memories. 

My advice to other students is to be open-minded, embrace the challenges, and enjoy the adventure. You won’t regret it!