Studying abroad is an enriching college experience, but for pre-med students, the pressure to meet rigorous course requirements leads students to believe that studying abroad isn’t a realistic option for them. Concerns like “Will my science credits count?” or “Can I still finish all my pre-med courses on time?” may cause many to abandon the idea entirely.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone! However, there’s good news: there are opportunities that allow you to gain international experience, immerse yourself in a new culture, and enhance your medical school application—all without delaying your academic progress.

Rather than taking a full semester abroad, consider shadowing in another country during the summer. This offers pre-med students the best of both worlds: stay on track of academic goals while gaining invaluable hands-on experience in healthcare and clinical settings abroad. Plus, it’s the perfect chance to explore a new culture and broaden your perspective, all during a school break.

Atlantis has offered shadowing programs abroad since 2007 and is dedicated to providing pre-med and pre-health students with life-changing opportunities. To get a sense of what the experience is like, we asked alum Taeja Garrick how shadowing abroad helped shape her medical journey.

Pre-health undergraduate student Taeja Garrick discusses her shadow abroad experience with Atlantis

What led you to consider shadowing abroad?

Studying abroad was something I had always dreamed of doing. I began my undergraduate years at the University of Florida as a business management major, with aspirations to pursue a career in international business due to my interest in other countries and cultures. UF offered many opportunities for business students to study abroad, and I was drawn to Spain due to my love of the language. However, after some enlightening experiences during the COVID pandemic, I decided to switch to the pre-med track. With that decision, I let go of my dream of studying abroad, knowing that the pre-med schedule would be rigorous. I was then introduced to Atlantis by my academic advisor and I was thrilled because it would allow me to experience a hospital setting and finally visit Spain.

What are some of the benefits of shadowing abroad for pre-health students (pre-med, pre-PA, and nursing)? What did you get out of the program?

The opportunity to study abroad was truly a privilege, one that I do not take lightly. I had always read about different healthcare systems, but being able to visit Spain, experience its system firsthand, and engage with healthcare providers—while building meaningful relationships—was unmatched. Not only was the program an incredible learning experience, but it was also fun and helped me grow significantly as a person.

For me, one of the greatest benefits of this program was having a genuine story to share. In my medical school interviews, recounting my experience in Spain provided an exciting way to express my passion for medicine and my commitment to understanding and respecting different cultures. I believe this program is especially valuable for anyone with an interest in travel but who feels restricted by academic obligations. It allowed me to explore a new part of the world, and dive into various medical specialties while gaining the shadowing hours I needed for my application.

The benefits I gained from this program are numerous and ultimately helped me feel more confident in pursuing medicine.

How did shadowing abroad satisfy your desire to study abroad?

During my time shadowing abroad, I had the opportunity to experience a hospital setting, connect with physicians, observe various specialties and procedures, and explore a new city.

The program structure helped me gain the educational benefits of shadowing while also allowing me time to go out with friends, go shopping, travel to other countries on the weekends, try local cuisine, and fully immerse myself in the city.

My four weeks in Spain gave me time to become comfortable with the area and build connections with others in my program. Scheduled dinners and excursions brought our group even closer together. We even took spontaneous weekend trips—including attending an incredible music festival. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience, and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity.

Atlantis offers pre-health students the opportunity to shadow in a healthcare setting in another country during school breaks (usually the summer).

Learn more about Atlantis.