Faculty of Medicine , Airlangga University

Hello. I am Nurul Izzati. I am a medical student in Airlangga University, Indonesia. I am currently in my seventh semester. In this semester, there is one obligatory modul called elective module. In this module, the students are required to visit and observe health cares besides our university's hospital. All the students were advised to apply to foreign countries. My curiosity of Japanese culture and sophisticated technologies has led me to choose Osaka City University.

Spending one month here in Osaka was one of the best experiences in my life. I have learned so much during my time in this university. I spent two weeks in obstetrics and two weeks in gynaecology department. It was very fun and interesting as I got to observe so many operations including caesarean section as well as natural births. There were times when we were allowed to observe from very near distance. I was also given the chance to observe operations such as salpingo-oophorectomy and transvaginal mesh. It was a good opportunity and a great experience for me as I have never been a part of an operation before. The classes were interesting as it was more like discussions between doctors and students. The doctors were very friendly and were willing to help whenever I needed help.

Besides that, language is not an issue. The doctors made sure I was able to understand the lessons. I appreciate very much to see the doctors and students tried to speak in English. Furthermore, we had skills practice (laparoscopy simulation and birth simulation) where we got to use sophisticated tools. It was really fun as it was my first time to use such tools. It was also my first time to do birth simulation. Furthermore, I got the chance to join the microsurgery skill trial. There, I learned how to do microsurgery suturing.

As for the Japanese students, they were all very friendly and helpful. They spent time to show me around, to help me in studying the topics, as well as explaining about Japanese cultures. I have learned so much about Japanese cultures and I have met nice people and new friends here in OCU.

Another thing about this university is that the location is very strategic. It is near the Tennoji Station and Q's mall. Therefore, it is very easy to get to the university and we can find shops or places to eat easily.

We were given accommodation that was very cozy and I would say it was a nice place to live. It felt like home. Our dorm was 5 minutes away from the university, and it was very convenient as there were convenience stores and restaurants nearby. The accommodation fee was reasonable as well.

Overall, it was a wonderful experience that I will never forget. I am very glad that I have chosen OCU for this elective program. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be OCU's student for a month. Thank you to Obgyn Department, Professor Koyama, Professor Sumi, Professor Ishimura, Professor Ohata and all the doctors and staff in OCU. I hope I will have the chance to meet again as well as visit OCU.