Frequently Asked Question's About Studying Medicine Abroad

Whenever I am at work or back home in the UK and I tell people I study medicine in abroad, they always seem to ask me pretty much the same things. And trust me, the questions don't change that much and it's been 5 long years.

Often enough I find myself repeating the same kinda questions. When asked what I do, I usually answer by saying 'I am a medical student' (usually at work & online). And people then usually ask 'Where?' and then I answer, 'I study abroad actually....pause...in 'Romania' and then they pause, stare at me confused, then the questions begin lol! These FAQ's aren't written in particular order but they pretty much summarise what questions I get asked all the time! 

1. Did you always want to be a doctor?

I did actually, well, for most of my life at least. I remember going through this period just before going starting my A-levels and wondering if I should choose a career in law or in medicine. But I definitely always knew I wanted a professional career that would challenge me and be very rewarding!  

2. Why did you go to medical school abroad? 

I actually didn't have it in mind to study abroad until much later. I soon realised that my options were limited in the UK as I was only able to apply to 4 medical universities in UK and I just wanted to cover my back by applying for medical schools in Europe. And, I'm so glad I did because its now 5 years later and I'll be graduating before I know it. 

3. What do your family & friends think about you studying there? 

Well most of them think I'm crazy and they honestly don't know how I am even getting through medical school and on top of that, living abroad in Romania. But they always do say to me 'If I knew that I could go Romania and my career is set for the rest of my life, I would definitely do it!'

So I always find that super- encouraging. My mum is also a big encouragement for me also and I am so thankful for her unconditional support and I couldn't imagine doing this alone.

4.  So are you going to work in Romania when you finish?

Haha! I love this question.. I still get surprised when I hear this. If you know me well, you'll know I'm such a London girl, I love the city life, being close to my family, friends and just having lots to do! I cannot imagine living anywhere else permanently. So as much as I love Romania, thank you for making my doctor dreams come true..err..but no! Ha!

5. Is your course in Romanian? 

My course is in English! Everyone always asks me this lol. I don't think I'd ever study medicine in a language that I can't speak, it'd be far to hard. Studying medicine, is hard enough, so definitely not up to the challenge to study it in a different language. P.S. Theres also a french section too if anyone is thinking of study here. 

6. Do you speak Romanian?

Da, eu vorbesc romaneste, putin! Translated- 'Yes, I speak Romanian, a little!' But, in all fairness I understand more than I can say. It mainly because we don't actually get taught Romanian after the first year of medical and even then what we learn is pretty basic. But it is quite refreshing to see that most people here, speak basic English, so if you mix of Romanian with English you'll get very far. 

7.  So did you study anything before? 

Yes I sure did! It's been a long road..I studied Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Sociology in college (16-18 years), then studied a degree in Biology with Psychology from Queen Mary, University of London, which I am very proud of!

8.  How many years is medicine over there?

Medicine in Romania is 6 years! I know if you are from the UK, it's usually 5 years. But if you include the foundation training years we finish at the same time. Only one year for Romanian medical graduates and two years for UK medical graduates... so technically its 7 years for your degree + training to be a trained medical doctor. I hope this is easy enough to digest. 

9.  So are you going to work there when you finish?

Haha! I love this question.. I still get surprised when I hear this. If you know me well, you'll know I'm such a London girl, I love the city life, being close to my family, friends and just having lots to do! I cannot imagine living anywhere else permanently. So as much as I love Romania, thank you for making my doctor dreams come true..err..but no! Ha!

10. Have you faced any racism in Romania? 

Sadly, I have experienced this on some occasions! I don't think I notice it as much anymore, after 5 years you get used to it I guess. I think the main problem here is that people aren't all very educated, Romania is techinically a second- world country so, the average person aren't used to seeing black people or any other persons of colour. My taiwanese friends get noticed even more than me... sighs*.. but you get used to it, kind of, its hard to explain but yeah minimal racism, MAXIMAL STARING! 

--

Hope you liked my FAQ's about studying in Romania! If you're still curious and want to find out more, please ask and I'll be happy to do another post.

Thanks for reading J x

--