国際交流・留学

Name: Robert-Patrick Steiner
Home Institution/ Country: TU Dresden/Germany
Year of university: 6th year
Designated department at Shinshu University: Medical faculty; Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Department of Plastic Surgery
Training Period: from Nov. 20, 2023 to Mar. 10, 2024
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?
Ever since I was a child, it's been my dream to live and work in Japan. I've always been very interested in Japanese culture, food, history, and architecture. When I found out that Shinshu University is a partner institution of TU Dresden, I immediately signed up for the exchange program. My stay was an incredible experience that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

2. Please describe your training at host department/lab.
Most of my time at the two surgical departments was spent in the operating room, the outpatient clinic, and the ward. I assisted during surgeries, got to learn the most common diseases and surgical treatments, and learned about patient-doctor communication.

3. Please list what you have gained from your experiences through the training at Shinshu University and the stay in Matsumoto, Japan.
I gained a deeper understanding of the differences between the German and Japanese healthcare systems and can evaluate their advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, the valuable international experience will contribute to my growth as a healthcare professional.

4. How do you think you can apply those experiences to your future career?
When making future decisions about the treatment of patients, I will be able to see things from a different perspective. I'll evaluate alternative communication and treatment strategies that I might not have considered without my international experience.

5. Advice to those who are interested in studying at Shinshu University
Study Japanese before coming to Shinshu University! Even basic language skills will drastically improve communication in day-to-day life and make a huge impact on the relationships that you can build in Japan.