2025 Student from Udayana University:Clinical training at the Dept of Medicine (Gastroenterology, Nephrology)

Name: Sara Putri Bungaran
Home Institution/ Country: Udayana University / Indonesia
Year of university: 3rd
Designated department at Shinshu University: Medicine (Gastroenterology, Nephrology)
Training Period: from July 7 to August 1, 2025
Training: Clinical training

1. What made you come train at Shinshu University School of Medicine and how did you find the School through your stay?
I chose to apply for the clinical training at Shinshu University School of Medicine after hearing about its strong reputation for excellence in education and research. When I found out that my home university had a collaboration with Shinshu, I knew it was the perfect opportunity I didn't want to miss. I've always been curious about how the healthcare system and work culture operate in Japan, and this program gave me the chance to experience it firsthand.
Throughout my stay, I was deeply impressed by how welcoming and supportive everyone was, from the professors and doctors to the students. The teaching doctors were not only knowledgeable but also incredibly patient and passionate in sharing their expertise. They made even the most complex topics feel approachable, and they encouraged me to actively participate during clinical sessions.
This hands-on experience allowed me to truly apply what I had previously only learned in theory. Being directly involved in clinical settings helped me gain a clearer understanding of patient care, teamwork, and the workflow in Japanese hospitals. I also learned valuable communication and observational skills that I know will benefit me in my future medical career.
Most of all, I'm grateful for the friendships I built and the inspiration I gained during my time here. The environment was not only educational, but also motivating. It has been such a meaningful experience that broadened my perspective both professionally and personally.

2. Please describe your training at host department/lab.
The Department of Gastroenterology at Shinshu University is divided into three main divisions: Gastrointestinal, Hepatology, and Pancreato-Biliary. I feel incredibly lucky because I had the chance to learn from all three during my training.
Each day usually started with a team meeting to discuss patient cases and treatment plans. After that, we did ward rounds to check on patients directly. What made this experience truly special was how structured yet dynamic it was. I was scheduled to observe and participate in a wide range of procedures such as endoscopy, Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), colonoscopy, Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS), abdominal ultrasound, liver biopsy, Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), patient conferences, bedside teachings, and digestive disease conferences.
But the learning didn't stop there. What amazed me was how the doctors went beyond the schedule. They would invite me to observe or even try new procedures whenever possible. One of the highlights was witnessing a Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) surgery for an achalasia patient, which is considered a rare and fascinating case. I was also taught how to handle and maneuver endoscopic instruments myself, which was such a valuable hands-on experience.
Moreover, I was invited to outpatient care sessions where I got to observe how doctors communicate and interact directly with outpatients, a side of clinical practice that's often overlooked but incredibly important.
Honestly, if the Shinshu University Faculty of Medicine gave me ten apples, this department gave me a thousand. I'm truly grateful for the generosity, patience, and enthusiasm of everyone in the team. This rotation not only expanded my clinical knowledge but also sparked even more passion in me for gastroenterology.

3. Please list what you have gained from your experiences through the training at Shinshu University and the stay in Matsumoto, Japan.
Through my training at Shinshu University and my stay in Matsumoto, I've grown significantly both professionally and personally.
Professionally, I gained valuable clinical skills, especially in the field of internal medicine, by directly observing and participating in various medical procedures. I also improved my academic understanding of gastroenterology-related diseases. Beyond that, I developed essential non-academic skills such as medical communication, cross-cultural collaboration, and even picked up some Japanese language basics, which helped me connect better with patients and staff.
Personally, this experience taught me to be more adaptable, independent, and open-minded. Living in a different country with a unique culture pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me appreciate new perspectives. I learned how to navigate unfamiliar situations, build meaningful relationships despite language barriers, and find joy in small, everyday moments like enjoying a local meal or simply walking through the beautiful streets of Matsumoto.
Overall, this journey has not only enriched my medical journey but also shaped me into a more confident, curious, and culturally-aware individual.

4. How do you think you can apply those experiences to your future career?
I believe the experiences I gained at Shinshu University will have a long-lasting impact on my future career as a medical professional. Clinically, the hands-on exposure to various procedures and patient interactions has strengthened both my practical skills and diagnostic thinking. I now have a better understanding of how to approach complex cases with a multidisciplinary mindset, which will be invaluable as I continue my medical training and eventually treat patients independently.
Beyond clinical knowledge, I also learned the importance of clear communication, teamwork, and cultural sensitivity skills that are essential for working in diverse healthcare environments. The opportunity to interact with professionals from different backgrounds taught me how to be a better listener, collaborator, and problem-solver.
Moreover, living and learning in Japan taught me adaptability and resilience qualities that I believe are crucial for any doctor. Whether it's handling unexpected situations in a hospital or building trust with patients from different cultures, I feel more equipped to face the challenges ahead.
In short, this experience has not only sharpened my medical competence but also shaped my values and mindset as a future doctor. I'm excited to bring all of this into my next steps in medical school, residency, and beyond.

5. Advice to those who are interested in studying at Shinshu University
If you're considering studying at Shinshu University, I'd absolutely encourage you to go for it! Shinshu University offers much more than just education, it offers perspective, inspiration, and a sense of global community. My biggest advice would be: come with an open mind and a willingness to engage. Don't be afraid to ask questions, try new things, or step outside of your comfort zone. The more you immerse yourself in the hospital, in the classroom, and in the local culture, the more rewarding your experience will be. Also, don't worry if your Japanese isn't perfect. A lot of people are happy to help, and you'll be surprised how much you can learn along the way. Just be proactive, respectful, and curious, you'll not only gain knowledge but build meaningful connections that last far beyond your time here.