Informator uniwersytecki

"The stimulating academic environment" MUL through the eyes of an Erasmus+ student

Lorenzo Gurrieri is a student of Medicine and Surgery at the Università Statale degli studi di Milano. In the academic year 2023/2024, he lived in Lublin and studied medicine at the Medical University of Lublin. He got to know the university and the city, travelled around the country. Let's hear what he has to say about these few months.

When did your Erasmus exchange take place? What did you do during the exchange, what did you learn, what were your duties in the hospital/clinic you were or at the university?
My Erasmus exchange took place from October 2023 to June 2024. During my stay, I engaged in clinical activities at local hospitals and clinics, and attended courses at the Medical University of Lublin. I learned a lot both theoretically and practically, enhancing my clinical skills, teamwork abilities, and understanding of various treatment methodologies. My duties included assisting doctors, participating in medical rounds and procedures, and interacting with patients.

Tell us a little bit about your studies in your home country.
In Italy, my medical studies are highly structured and focus on a combination of theoretical lessons and practical activities. Students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in hospital wards from the early years, allowing for progressive and continuous learning.
 

What is the difference between studying in Lublin and in your alma mater?
The main difference I noticed was the teaching approach. In Lublin, I found a more practical and problem-solving-oriented method, with a strong focus on clinical simulations and hands-on experiences. Additionally, I greatly appreciated the accessibility and availability of the professors.
 

What were your expectations before leaving?
Before leaving, I expected to improve my clinical skills, learn new teaching and treatment methods, and have new cultural and personal experiences. I also hoped to make new friends and grow both professionally and personally.

 
What do you think about our University and the city? How does the trip fit into your studies, what have you learned?
I found the Medical University of Lublin very well-organized and advanced. The city of Lublin is welcoming and rich in history and culture, which made my stay even more enjoyable. This trip greatly enriched my studies, allowing me to gain new perspectives and techniques that I will surely apply in my future career.

How do you rate the Erasmus exchange itself, academically, but also privately? What you liked and what you didn't like.
I rate the Erasmus experience very positively both academically and personally. I appreciated the high level of education and the numerous practical learning opportunities. On a personal level, I loved the chance to live in a new culture and make new friends. The only less positive aspect was the initial adjustment to new habits and the different climate.

 
Was there anything that surprised you in Poland?
I was pleasantly surprised by the hospitality and kindness of the Polish people. Additionally, I was impressed by the quality of healthcare facilities and the efficiency of the healthcare system.

 
What did you particularly like about your stay?
I particularly liked the stimulating academic environment, the opportunity to work closely with professionals in the field, and the chance to live in such a fascinating and historically rich city as Lublin.


Could you please tell us what were you doing in your free time in Lublin? Have you traveled anywhere?
In my free time, I explored the city of Lublin, visiting museums, attending cultural events, and discovering the local cuisine. I also had the opportunity to travel to other Polish cities, such as Warsaw and Krakow, further enriching my cultural experience.

 
How does your Erasmus exchange comply with your studies, what have you learned?
My Erasmus exchange perfectly aligned with my medical studies. I learned new diagnostic and therapeutic techniques, improved my clinical skills, and gained a broader view of international medical practices.

 
What do you think about our University and the city?
As mentioned earlier, I found the Medical University of Lublin excellent in terms of facilities and teaching quality. The city of Lublin was a wonderful place to live, full of history, culture, and warm-hearted people.

 
And the most important question is: Are you going to visit Lublin again?
Yes, definitely. I would love to return to Lublin in the future for both professional and personal reasons. I developed a strong connection to the city and the people I met, and I would love to relive this experience in the future.

Interviewed: Justyna Jóźkiewicz