With the support of the Hanoon Foundation, Palestinian medical students gain early clinical exposure and hands-on learning opportunities. A fourth-year student recently attended a two-week summer course at Oxford University as a finalist in the Surgical Skills Competition. During the placement in the Cardiothoracic Department, they shadowed doctors in theatres and wards, gaining invaluable technical skills, patient care experience, and inspiration from meeting dedicated surgeons and fellow students.
“This opportunity has been truly transformative, giving me invaluable clinical exposure and learning experiences that will shape my journey towards a career in surgery.” — Nour
Check her testimonial and photos below.
Testimonial
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the Hanoon Foundation for supporting my participation in the Oxford University two-week summer course as a finalist in the Surgical Skills Competition. This opportunity has been truly transformative and has given me invaluable clinical exposure and learning experiences.
From 11th August to 22nd August, I attended a placement in the Cardiothoracic Department at Oxford University Hospitals. Each day, from 8:00am to 5:00pm, I shadowed doctors and actively engaged in both the theatres and the wards.
During my first week, I was based in the Thoracic Theatres, where I observed complex surgical procedures and gained insight into the precision and teamwork required in thoracic surgery. In the second week, I moved to the Cardiac Theatres, which gave me the opportunity to witness intricate heart operations and deepen my understanding of cardiac surgical techniques. These experiences strengthened my knowledge of surgical anatomy, technical skills, and the collaboration between surgeons, anaesthetists, and nurses.
On the wards, I joined doctors during ward rounds, where I observed how they took patient histories, conducted general examinations, and managed patient care pre- and post-operatively. This was a particularly valuable part of the placement, as it showed me how communication, empathy, and clinical reasoning are all vital in patient care.
On the 21st of August, we had our final exam, which was unlike any exam I had ever experienced—challenging, engaging, and surprisingly fun. It consisted of six stations, four of which tested our surgical skills, including vessel anastomosis, laparoscopic instrument handling, suturing, and performing a one-handed reef knot.
During this time, I was accommodated at St Anne’s College, Oxford, which provided a supportive academic environment and the opportunity to connect with fellow students who share a passion for surgery and medicine.
Overall, this placement gave me insight not only into the technical aspects of surgery but also into the human side of patient care. I am immensely thankful to the Hanoon Foundation for making this experience possible through their funding and support. The knowledge, skills, and inspiration I gained will be a cornerstone in my journey towards a career in surgery.
Best regards, “
Nour
Read more about the international training placement programme here