Author: Ada Norcross | Major: Biology and Psychology | Semester: Summer 2025
Best. Hike. Ever.
This summer, I had the amazing opportunity to travel to Sweden for three weeks as part of the Health Teams Abroad program. The trip was not only a chance to explore a new culture but also a pivotal step in my journey to hopefully becoming a healthcare professional. I chose this program because I wanted to immerse myself in a healthcare system different from my own. I wanted to gain insight into how another country approaches health. I knew that if I wanted to best serve patients in the future, I needed to understand healthcare from every angle, especially through a global lens. Throughout the three weeks of the trip, our schedule was full of lectures, hospital tours, and hands-on activities that pushed us to think critically about health systems.
Although the primary focus of the trip was healthcare, one of the most memorable and impactful academic moments came from a lecture on children’s rights. In Sweden, the rights of the child are taken very seriously and are deeply integrated into all aspects of society. This lecture resonated with me deeply because I plan to specialize in pediatric dentistry, and understanding the legal and ethical framework surrounding children’s rights is crucial in providing meaningful care. After the lecture, I had the chance to speak personally with the professor. Despite her busy schedule, she took time to have a meaningful, one-on-one conversation with me about how I could prepare to best serve children in my future dental practice. She provided me with guidance that went above and beyond. Her willingness to share her knowledge reminded me that truly caring for others is the point of life.
Throughout the program, I saw firsthand how healthcare professionals in Sweden approach their work with a deep commitment to collective well-being. Healthcare wasn’t just seen as a service, but as a shared social value. That perspective challenged and inspired me. It reminded me that being a healthcare provider is as much about community and compassion as it is about clinical expertise, and it made me fall more in love with my future path. This experience taught me that caring for others is not limited to physical health and includes protecting their rights. In Sweden, I didn’t just learn about medicine or policy; I learned what it truly means to show up for people. That’s a lesson I’ll carry with me throughout my career. I’m so grateful for the experience, and all of the incredible people that I experienced this journey with.
To any student interested in studying abroad, I must encourage you to just say yes. I truly had the time of my life and met lifelong friends. I left with strangers and returned with my\ favorite people. The relationships are just as important as the education. I know wherever you choose to study abroad, it will be home SWEDE home!