Medizinstudent:innen helfen Medizinstudent:innen.

Coming from Tel Aviv & despite having minimal German language knowledge, my request for a month-long Famulatur was granted nevertheless, & I was warmly welcomed into Klinkum Emden´s radiology department by the friendly doctors, technologists, & secretaries. Although nearly no one spoke English (including most of the doctors), I still felt comfortable; the atmosphere was very relaxed with a flat hierarchy.

Most of the days, from 8:15 am - 12:30 pm I sat together with the head of the department, where I was able to observe & discuss many imaging cases; that time was frequently interspersed with patient encounters (to personally explain them their scans); interventional radiology procedures (i.e. the attempted dislodging of a brain embolus); periradicular therapy injections (which I was allowed to help with); etc. etc.

Between ~12:30 - 4 pm each day (besides the lunch break ~1:15 - 2:30 pm), I sat in on specialized radiology meetings (in the topics of pediatrics, neurology, internal medicine, surgery); & from 4 - 4:45 pm (at the latest), I was with the head of the department again (his English was the best in the department).

Some days I also spent with some of the other radiologists, who patiently taught me concepts in radiology even with my limited German. Overall, I must say that this rotation was excellent both for the radiology experience, as well as for learning German (including medical German!) -- my first day I hardly understood anything, but by the fourth week, I understood most of the imaging reports & the meetings.

Additionally, the meal plan, dormitory accommodations, & stipend were all enjoyable bonuses. My room was comfortable & clean (& sleeping with earplugs helped keep out unwanted noise from the hallway & outside at night). I would definitely recommend this hospital to any student who is considering it!

P.S. If you come to Klinikum Emden´s radiology department, don´t forget to ask to see images of the Mann von Bernuthsfeld (aka "Bernie Moorleiche," the radiological survey of a bog body found in the area dating back to the 8th century -- very cool)!!