In October, Valeria Neira Bejarano, a medical student from Universidad de La Sabana in Colombia, took part in an internship at the Neurology Department of the School of Medical Sciences (SMS) of Unicamp. She shared her experience - read her account below:

“During my internship, I had an incredible opportunity to immerse myself in a wide range of clinical and surgical experiences. I spent time in both the neurology service and the neurosurgery unit, where I observed fascinating procedures, including brain tumor resections, spinal surgeries, and functional and epilepsy surgeries. Each of these provided invaluable insights into the complexities of the nervous system.

I also attended neurology outpatient consultations, which allowed me to interact closely with both patients and doctors. These consultations were a fantastic opportunity to develop my communication skills while learning about the diverse neurological conditions patients face. The doctors were incredibly supportive, encouraging me to ask questions and generously sharing their expertise.

One of the highlights of my internship was visiting the micro-surgery lab, where I had the chance to observe the brain under a microscope. This experience deepened my appreciation for the precision and skill required in neurosurgical procedures.

Although the language barrier initially posed a challenge, I was able to overcome it thanks to the kindness and patience of the medical staff, who were always willing to teach and explain. This experience not only enriched my medical knowledge but also solidified my passion for pursuing a career in neurosurgery. I am deeply grateful. Thank you, Unicamp!”, wrote Valeria