As our time in Argentina comes to an end, I can honestly say that I will never forget this amazing experience. Over the past few weeks, I have learned so much about Argentina’s healthcare system and culture. From all of our lectures and hospital visits to exploring the streets of Buenos Aires, each day has been awesome and educational.

One of the biggest things I learned was how different healthcare systems can operate around the world. I learned about the public, private, and obras sociales sectors in Argentina and how they each play an important role in providing care to people. It was interesting to see both the strengths and challenges within each system, especially how access to care can vary depending on someone’s location or financial situation. I also learned how culture, economics, and the government all have major impacts on healthcare delivery. Seeing healthcare from a new perspective helped me better understand the importance of adaptability, communication, and compassion in the medical field.

Beyond academics, I learned how to become more independent and open to new experiences. Exploring a new country, practicing Spanish, trying new foods, meeting new people, and stepping outside of my comfort zone helped me grow throughout this trip. I also made so many memories with all of the people I had around me. Whether we were walking through the city, laughing on the bus, or visiting hospitals and universities, every single moment made this trip extremely meaningful to me.