Six things I wish I'd known before studying medicine abroad

Having studied and worked across medical pathways in three different countries, Amritha says one of the biggest lessons she's learned is that every country trains and evaluates doctors differently. 

She told me: "The Philippines prioritises whether you can actually do things." This is why their medical education places a strong emphasis on practical skills. Students get early clinical exposure, assist in surgeries and interact with patients much sooner.  

Many Filipino students also study medicine as a second degree, often after qualifying as nurses or other healthcare professionals, meaning they already enter medical school with hands-on experience. 

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, places much greater emphasis on academic performance. Students are ranked based on their final examinations, and that ranking continues to influence everything from internship placements to future career opportunities. 

The UK expects something different again. While medical knowledge remains essential, communication and patient-centred care carry just as much weight. Rather than simply diagnosing and directing treatment, doctors are expected to involve patients in decisions and explain their options. She believes these differences extend beyond patient care. "In most South Asian countries including Sri Lanka, the doctor is like a final authority who tells you the diagnosis, and you are expected to sort of obey the doctor," she says.  

"In the UK however, you have to be a communicator, a healthcare manager, a person who can counsel, answer questions and guide patients through their options, not just about treatment plans but also advice about social services". 

While healthcare systems may differ, Amritha says communication and other soft skills have been invaluable wherever she's worked. Whether in Sri Lanka, the Philippines or the UK, she believes being kind, approachable and taking the time to speak to patients well never goes unnoticed. 

"When you are nice to your patients, people notice, patients notice, and doctors notice. Even if it's rewarded or not, it's always appreciated," she explained. 

She emphasised that strong people skills help build relationships with colleagues across the wider healthcare team, from senior doctors to nurses, laboratory staff and caregivers.  

Amritha Sridaran during her clinical training in Sri Lanka

Reflecting on her own journey, Amritha admits networking was something she underestimated early in her career. While she focused heavily on studying, she later realised that building professional relationships could open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable guidance throughout the profession. 

“After graduation, I noticed that people with better networks fared better. When it comes to working in hospitals, it always helps when you know someone who's done the exam before you, or someone working somewhere else,” she explained.  

Medicine is a profession where advice from someone who's already navigated the pathway you're about to take can save both time and uncertainty.  

Whether it's understanding licensing exams, applying for jobs or simply knowing who to ask for guidance in your first internship, having a strong professional network can make the journey much easier. 

Amritha’s advice is to make the most of opportunities to meet people throughout medical school, whether that's through conferences, university events or simply getting to know classmates and colleagues.  

She also recommends keeping an updated LinkedIn profile as a way to build and maintain professional connections beyond the people you meet in person.  

"It's always good to know people. Even though everything is automated these days, people can still open doors for you."

Amritha also encourages students to develop skills outside of clinical practice. Licensing exams, degree verification and job applications can create long waiting periods during which you may not yet be able to work as a doctor.  

As she puts it, “If being a doctor is the only skill you know, then it’s going to be difficult because you won’t be able to put those skills to use while you wait for your license.” 

This is where skills like research, scientific writing, teaching and content creation can be invaluable, opening up opportunities while you work towards the next stage of your medical career.  

Drawing on her own experience, she recalled: “Since I was into writing, I wrote medical articles for a local newspaper and worked with senior consultants who were carrying out research.” 

While small side hustles like these may not be highly compensated, they will still provide valuable experience and keep you engaged with the profession. 

Alongside medicine, Amritha Sridaran pursued opportunities in writing and research while preparing for the next stage of her career.

For students considering medicine overseas, Amritha's biggest piece of advice is simple: don't just research the university, research everything that comes with it. 

Before applying, Amritha recommends checking whether the medical school is recognised by the relevant international bodies, such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) directory, and whether the degree is accredited in your home country. 

"Not being able to practise in your home country can be a major drawback because if things don't work elsewhere, people usually resort to their home country." 

Once you've shortlisted universities, take a closer look at the country you'll be living in. Research the practical realities of studying there, including visa requirements and renewal costs, accommodation, travel connections to home, the local climate and the country's political stability. 

These factors may seem small at first, but over five or six years they can make a significant difference financially and personally. Even something as simple as moving from a tropical country to one with harsh winters can mean unexpected expenses for clothing, heating and higher utility bills. 

While university rankings can be a useful consideration, Amritha believes they're only one piece of the puzzle. Understanding how different healthcare systems work and where you ultimately see yourself practising, will help you choose a medical school that aligns with your long-term goals, not just your university shortlist. 

As Amritha puts it: "Medical school is like buying a ticket into a theme park. The degree gets you through the gate, but then you still have to pay for every ride, wait in every queue, and keep moving through the system. Graduation isn't the finish line. It's just the entrance."