The International School of Medicine at Zhejiang University (ZJU-ISM) once again reaffirmed its commitment to global medical education through its signaturebilateral overseas elective program. This past summer, the program served as a vibrant platform for academic, clinical, and cultural exchange, connecting medical students from diverse backgrounds and world-class institutions.

ZJU-ISM welcomed students from the University of Glasgow and Chulalongkorn University, providing them with immersive clinical and academic experiences across departments. From outpatient clinics and multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings to ward rounds and emergency care, students gained firsthand insights into the dynamic healthcare environment of the Fourth Affliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine in Yiwu .

"I participated in various clinical settings including outpatient clinics, ward rounds, MDTs, and even the emergency department, which significantly broadened and deepened my understanding of the medical field," shared Zhengying He, an elective student from the University of Glasgow.

Similarly, Chitsanupong Prakhongjai from Chulalongkorn University praised the academic atmosphere and quality at ZJU-ISM: "The professors were incredibly passionate about their areas of expertise and eager to share their knowledge. Their dedication truly inspired me."

Meanwhile, ZJU-ISM students ventured abroad for electives at prestigious partner universities. These overseas experiences offered rich exposure to advanced clinical practices, global health perspectives, and cross-cultural understanding.

Deeyana Hamheem,an MBBS student at ZJU-ISM who completed her elective at the University of Western Australia, reflected: "The experience at UWA introduced me to cutting-edge medical research, advanced clinical methods, and critical ethical discussions —essential components of becoming a competent and compassionate doctor."

Kolawatch Loakhajorn, whoundertook his elective at Chulalongkorn University, emphasized the value of cultural exchange: "The cultural exchange event, along with daily interactions with peers from various countries, allowed me to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. It truly broadened my perspective and enriched my journey."

These personal reflections capture the essence of what Professor Chen Weiying, Dean for Education, International Affairs, Student & Admissions at ZJU-ISM describes as the program’s core mission: "Our bilateral overseas elective program, developed in collaboration with world-renowned institutions, is designed to enrich the training of future healthcare professionals through international exposure to clinical enviroments, academic learning, and cultural diversity. We aim for our students to gain essential skills, new ideas, and lasting friendships. These shared experiences are key to shaping globally-minded physicians and advancing medical education worldwide."

As the founding visionary behind this first-ever bilateral overseas elective program for MBBS international students at Zhejiang University, Dr. Chen played a seminal role in its conception and successful implementation. Witnessing its launch and impact has been a deeply fulfilling milestone in her longstanding commitment to international medical education.

With its diverse experiences and deepened international collaborations, this summer’s bilateral exchange program offered students not only a colorful and fruitful season but also a stepping stone toward a truly global medical career. ZJU-ISM continues to build meaningful partnerships and create pathways that foster excellence, empathy, and innovation in medical education.

Written by: Yang Wenqiang

Edited by: Chen Weiying