Voices

Alexander, Student, Keele University, United Kingdom
Juntendo University provided me with a welcoming and enriching surgical elective, where I easily made friends with many students and doctors. The residents and senior surgeons were kind and supportive, encouraging me to consider Juntendo’s research programs
in the future. I highly recommend this elective to medical students looking for a valuable and friendly clinical experience. I am eager to return to Japan in the near future!

Mujtaba, Student, Heidelberg University, Germany
Being known for world-class teaching, Juntendo University Hospital truly inspired me what it means to be a medical student in the operating room and being valued in the process of teaching. I had the pleasure of observing multiple procedures and asking
questions whenever I pleased. The doctors took their time to explain everything to me as thoroughly as they treat their patients. Juntendo has proved to me that you can provide great medical care by paying attention to every detail. This philosophy is
unique to Juntendo.

Angelina, Student, University of Indonesia, Indonesia
The opportunity to learn in Juntendo University Hospital, especially in the Department of Ophthalmology, has been one of the most honorable experiences in my medical education. From thought-provoking discussions to eye-opening 3D surgeries, I am very fortunate
to have been able to learn from the experts in the ophthalmology field. Moreover, I had a chance to meet and talk with Prof. Shintaro Nakao, the chairman of Department of Ophthalmology at Juntendo University. I was very grateful for the opportunity and humility expressed by Prof. Nakao to welcome me as a clinical observer.
I was also fortunate to be mentored by Dr. Takenori Inomata and Dr. Toshiaki Hirakata during outpatient clinic and in the operation room. Additionally, I made new friends from Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine and with other clinical observers from all around the globe. They were really kind and open to me. I hope I can have another chance in the future to learn in Juntendo. Overall, the short but meaningful time in Juntendo University opened my eyes about cutting edge medical innovations and also patient care in the field of ophthalmology.

Leo, Student, Queen Mary University of London, United Kingdom
My General Medicine elective was packed with fascinating clinic cases, ultrasound classes, seminars with English interpreters, and I loved my week in Shizuoka, perfectly balanced with rural resuscitation, amazing cycling and fresh sashimi! The staff,
Juntendo students and international community are so friendly and there was always something fun to do! I’ll always remember my Wednesday night Jazz band jams with the home-students (plus an Izakaya or two!), going out for Karaoke and the beautiful hikes
and swims in the stunning countryside Japan has to offer. Thank you Juntendo for an unforgettable experience

Kristian, Student, Queen Mary University of London, United Kingdom
It has been an absolute pleasure to spend 6 weeks with the Plastics Department at Juntendo University. The team have been incredibly welcoming, hospitable and kind. I have not only developed my surgical skills, but made friends and colleagues for life.

Denise, Student, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
My time at Juntendo University was a truly enriching experience. Juntendo University provided me with a warm and welcoming environment, in which the doctors were not only friendly but also highly supportive of my learning. One of the highlights of my
observership programme was the hands-on echocardiography workshop, where I had the opportunity to practice on cutting-edge ultrasound simulators. This experience enabled me to put my theoretical knowledge into practice, further enhancing my clinical skills.
Overall, it has been a memorable experience for me, and I highly recommend international students to participate in this programme.

Jasmine, Student, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
My experience at Juntendo University Hospital was truly transformative and enriching. The most memorable aspect was my attachment at the reproductive center, where I had the privilege of observing reproductive procedures like oocyte retrieval and embryo
transfer. The doctors here were exceptionally welcoming and accommodating, providing comprehensive explanations in English for our understanding. The simulation center was equally captivating, with my favorite part being the opportunity to practice on
a Da Vinci Skills Simulator. I thoroughly enjoyed my 5-week attachment and highly recommend it to all international students.

Dr. Liu Fei, Doctor, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, China
Juntendo University is a world-renowned university, an international stage where doctors and medical students from all over the world can exchange ideas and learn from each other. During my time studying in Pediatric General and Urogenital
Surgery department, the professors very kindly answered my questions anytime and were willing to share their valuable experience with me. In daily life, they also took good care of me and helped me experience Japanese cuisine and culture. I highly recommend
everyone to come to Juntendo University for exchange and learning.
Hana, Student, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
My time at Juntendo University was a lot of fun, especially thanks to the supportive supervisors and a diverse cultural environment. The emphasis on diversity and pushing boundaries helped refine my thinking and broaden my perspective. Surrounded by cutting-edge
facilities and a culture of respect, I grew both professionally and personally, gaining insights that will guide me throughout my career.
Isabelle, Student, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
My observership at Juntendo University has been amazing! All of the doctors have been engaged in teaching me, taking time to help me understand a variety of topics. Staff and students were all keen to engage with me about the differences in culture and
healthcare systems between Japan and the UK. It has been a fantastic experience that I'm sad to have finished!
Rosemary, Student, University of Leicester, United Kingdom
My time at Juntendo University will shape my future practice as a clinician. This experience has offered more than just a cross-cultural exchange. I was able to draw comparisons to the UK healthcare system and consider the role of healthcare in an ageing population. The supervisors were keen to foster a supportive learning environment to ask and answer questions. Juntendo University has left me with some lifelong memories and a deeper appreciation for medicine. Although it was my first time in Japan, it definitely will not be my last.
Dr. Ricky Chiang, Doctor, China Medical University Hospital, Taiwan
I am truly grateful for the opportunity to complete a rewarding and enriching traveling fellowship at the Orthopedics Department of Juntendo University Hospital. The faculty members and colleagues here demonstrated exceptional passion for teaching and
were always eager to share their knowledge and engage in meaningful academic exchanges. Throughout my time at the hospital, I was able to observe several distinctive aspects of medical practice compared to those in Taiwan, broadening my perspective and
deepening my understanding of orthopedic care. I sincerely appreciate and cherish this invaluable experience.
Anisha, Student, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
I had a fantastic experience at Juntendo University Hospital. Everyone I came across, both students and staff, welcomed me into the departments and helped me to overcome the language barrier and understand cultural differences. The fortnightly discussion-based
seminars further facilitated a cross-cultural healthcare exchange between other international students and Japanese students serving to broaden our global understanding of healthcare delivery. Juntendo University Hospital is a leading institution of excellence
in patient-centred care and medical education, and I am delighted to have undertaken my elective placement here.
Dr. Nguyen, Doctor, 108 Central Military Hospital, Vietnam
It was my first time coming to Japan, a country that I have admired for a long time. One thing that I like here is the attitude of Japanese healthcare workers. They always show their respect and best regards for their patients. The nurses even knelt beside
the patients in order to make explanations to them in certain cases. These impressions let me know more about the compassionate nature of Japanese people.
Clara, Student, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Colombia
Juntendo University offers a wide variety of opportunities in campus life. As an international visiting student, I was able to be a part of important moments, such as interacting with Japanese students, attending seminars, practicing, and observing some of the clubs for students in the university. Furthermore, Juntendo International Center will also plan different activities, this way you can also expand your knowledge from these activities and not only from the department you choose. I enjoyed my time in Juntendo because it focuses on academics but never forgetting how important is to get to know Japanese culture and traditions, and to understand why and how the health care system works the way it works.
Auréline, Student, University of Limoges, France
Spending time at Juntendo gave me the opportunity to combine clinical learning with cultural discovery (and in a truly unique setting at that!). I was struck by the precision and dedication of the surgical team, and deeply appreciated how welcoming everyone was, even across language barriers. Getting hands-on experience in the simulation center, including working with surgical robots, was a rare and enriching bonus to an already unforgettable experience. Thank you for the training and inspiration. :)
Aryaki, Student, University of Sheffield, United Kingdom
I was welcomed with open arms into the Otorhinolaryngology Department by both the doctors and the medical students. The theatre environment was great to be in, where everyone was encouraged to teach and learn. I was amazed to see the Professor pausing to teach students about a technique whilst doing a complicated head and neck cancer resection, and later the senior residents taught us how to do one-handed hand ties. There is a real sense of willingness to share knowledge and skills at Juntendo University, which I hope to take back with me and apply in my own medical education.
Samuel, Student, University of Sheffield, United Kingdom
During my time at Juntendo University I learnt from inspiring surgeons who are leaders in their fields and I observed surgeries that are not commonly performed in the Uk. This broadened my understanding of Urology and Plastic Surgery.
Khaleel Bashir, MS3, Morehouse School of Medicine, United States of America
My time at Juntendo University was an eye-opening experience. The supervisors and residents were incredibly supportive and welcoming. I was impressed with the hospital's advanced facilities and imaging technology, but what stood out most was its genuine commitment to fostering international medical professionals. Learning firsthand insight into practicing medicine in Japan as a foreigner broadened my outlook on my future career.
My time at Juntendo University was an eye-opening experience. The supervisors and residents were incredibly supportive and welcoming. I was impressed with the hospital's advanced facilities and imaging technology, but what stood out most was its genuine commitment to fostering international medical professionals. Learning firsthand insight into practicing medicine in Japan as a foreigner broadened my outlook on my future career.

Hilary, Student, Monash University, Australia
My time at Juntendo has been an incredible experience. You have a unique opportunity to meet both the local Japanese students but also other international elective students and consequently gain insights into what medical education and work life is like around the world. You can be fully immersed in their healthcare system and get to participate in ward rounds, observe procedures and listen in to their case conferences. Nevertheless, you also have ample time to explore the surrounds of Japan to get a full cultural immersion.
My time at Juntendo has been an incredible experience. You have a unique opportunity to meet both the local Japanese students but also other international elective students and consequently gain insights into what medical education and work life is like around the world. You can be fully immersed in their healthcare system and get to participate in ward rounds, observe procedures and listen in to their case conferences. Nevertheless, you also have ample time to explore the surrounds of Japan to get a full cultural immersion.

Abe, Student, Medical College of Wisconsin, United States of America
Rotating at Juntendo University has been a one-of-a-kind experience. With interests in both Asian linguistics and medicine, I enjoyed gaining a broad understanding of Japan’s culture and healthcare system. Interacting with students and doctors from around the world allowed me to appreciate differences in medication use such as dosage variations/anesthesia setups and treatment strategies including complex endoscopic procedures for gastric cancer. Plus, being in Ochanomizu made it easy to explore Tokyo and beyond. Thank you to the Juntendo team and the lifelong friends I made along the way!
Rotating at Juntendo University has been a one-of-a-kind experience. With interests in both Asian linguistics and medicine, I enjoyed gaining a broad understanding of Japan’s culture and healthcare system. Interacting with students and doctors from around the world allowed me to appreciate differences in medication use such as dosage variations/anesthesia setups and treatment strategies including complex endoscopic procedures for gastric cancer. Plus, being in Ochanomizu made it easy to explore Tokyo and beyond. Thank you to the Juntendo team and the lifelong friends I made along the way!

Student from Luxembourg, Studying in Germany
My time at Juntendo University was an unforgettable experience, especially because I had the opportunity to rotate through various surgical departments, each of which was truly impressive. However, the cardiovascular surgery department stood out in particular. The doctors and team went out of their way to explain everything to me in English and were incredibly supportive. Their dedication and kindness made me feel truly welcome.
Tokyo itself is a breathtaking city, and Juntendo provides the perfect opportunity to experience life here. The university makes it easy to connect with other international students, and thanks to this welcoming environment you never feel alone
My time at Juntendo University was an unforgettable experience, especially because I had the opportunity to rotate through various surgical departments, each of which was truly impressive. However, the cardiovascular surgery department stood out in particular. The doctors and team went out of their way to explain everything to me in English and were incredibly supportive. Their dedication and kindness made me feel truly welcome.
Tokyo itself is a breathtaking city, and Juntendo provides the perfect opportunity to experience life here. The university makes it easy to connect with other international students, and thanks to this welcoming environment you never feel alone

Yong Xuan, Student, University of Adelaide, Australia
My experience at Juntendo University has been nothing short of amazing. The doctors and staff were incredibly warm, going above and beyond to teach me despite the language barrier. The hospital's cutting-edge technology and supportive atmosphere made everyday a rewarding learning experience. I can truly say I enjoyed my time inside the hospital as much as outside—and trust me, there was plenty of time to explore and soak in everything Japan has to offer! If you're looking for an unforgettable experience that blends medicine and culture, Juntendo is the place to be!
My experience at Juntendo University has been nothing short of amazing. The doctors and staff were incredibly warm, going above and beyond to teach me despite the language barrier. The hospital's cutting-edge technology and supportive atmosphere made everyday a rewarding learning experience. I can truly say I enjoyed my time inside the hospital as much as outside—and trust me, there was plenty of time to explore and soak in everything Japan has to offer! If you're looking for an unforgettable experience that blends medicine and culture, Juntendo is the place to be!

Mavie, Student, University of Duisburg-Esse, Germany
My clinical observership at Juntendo University was an amazing experience. The supervisors and coordinators were incredibly kind, attentive, and always ready to assist, whether explaining complex procedures in English or even just guiding me to the next cafeteria. Unlike in my home country, where students often perform practical tasks, in Japan the focus is more theoretical. This approach allowed me to shadow doctors closely, gaining deeper insights and solidifying important theoretical knowledge. The welcoming environment and commitment to teaching me made my time at Juntendo unforgettable and I will definitely miss everybody a lot!
My clinical observership at Juntendo University was an amazing experience. The supervisors and coordinators were incredibly kind, attentive, and always ready to assist, whether explaining complex procedures in English or even just guiding me to the next cafeteria. Unlike in my home country, where students often perform practical tasks, in Japan the focus is more theoretical. This approach allowed me to shadow doctors closely, gaining deeper insights and solidifying important theoretical knowledge. The welcoming environment and commitment to teaching me made my time at Juntendo unforgettable and I will definitely miss everybody a lot!

Clare, Student, University of New South Wales, Australia
I have always been fond of the Japanese culture, though my past experiences have only been limited to that of a tourist. When the opportunity arose, I decided on Japan to understand the culture at a deeper level and learn about the sophisticated healthcare system it has to offer. In the past month, I had the opportunity to befriend and learn from the local/foreign students and doctors. Despite the occasional language barrier, the people I crossed paths with were always patient and kind. In the process, I also learnt to be more sensitive to non-verbal cues and worked diligently to improve my Japanese. This experience has truly been a heartwarming and humbling one, and one that I will always hold dearly to my heart. Being able to witness how the two things (medicine and Japan) I am passionate about converge has been a blessing, and I am ever so grateful for this opportunity to be at Juntendo, albeit a short time.
I have always been fond of the Japanese culture, though my past experiences have only been limited to that of a tourist. When the opportunity arose, I decided on Japan to understand the culture at a deeper level and learn about the sophisticated healthcare system it has to offer. In the past month, I had the opportunity to befriend and learn from the local/foreign students and doctors. Despite the occasional language barrier, the people I crossed paths with were always patient and kind. In the process, I also learnt to be more sensitive to non-verbal cues and worked diligently to improve my Japanese. This experience has truly been a heartwarming and humbling one, and one that I will always hold dearly to my heart. Being able to witness how the two things (medicine and Japan) I am passionate about converge has been a blessing, and I am ever so grateful for this opportunity to be at Juntendo, albeit a short time.

Hannah, Student, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany
My time at Juntendo has definitely enriched me as a person! Everyone in the department was welcoming, I learned a lot about surgery and the differences in healthcare systems. I made friends with the other students. I would recommend Juntendo University!
My time at Juntendo has definitely enriched me as a person! Everyone in the department was welcoming, I learned a lot about surgery and the differences in healthcare systems. I made friends with the other students. I would recommend Juntendo University!

Junior, Witten/Herdecke University, Germany
My time at Juntendo University, where excellence meets opportunity, was truly transformative. The academic environment nurtured curiosity, while the exceptional supervisors, deeply invested in my growth, provided mentorship that extended beyond academics. Though leaving was bittersweet, I am grateful for the invaluable experiences that will stay with me forever.
My time at Juntendo University, where excellence meets opportunity, was truly transformative. The academic environment nurtured curiosity, while the exceptional supervisors, deeply invested in my growth, provided mentorship that extended beyond academics. Though leaving was bittersweet, I am grateful for the invaluable experiences that will stay with me forever.