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SRT in Istanbul:
Exchange We Need!
Alzbeta Tylova
NMO: IFMSA-Czech Republic Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic alzbeta.tylova@seznam.cz
The Sub-Regional Training on Exchanges took place in Istanbul, Sile from 26th to 29th April 2014. Over 50 participants from 14 countries took part in making this experience truly unforgettable. Five trainers from five countries lead trainings on teambuilding, intercultural learning, avoiding burnout with time management, leadership and motivation, and handover. During these trainings the participants had an opportunity to improve in soft skills, work on their weaknesses and bring home useful tips for real life as well as for the IFMSA work. Moreover, there were four small working groups focused on academic quality, national social program, promotion techniques and cooperation with other youth groups. This was a chance for us to share a wide range of problems we all face in different areas and talk it through with other people trying to find the best solution. It was a great opportunity for both new and old LEOs, LOREs and all the people interested in exchanges to share knowledge and experience to help improve exchanges in their NMOs. For me, as a newbie in the SCOPE world, it was the most amazing time. It was my first international IFMSA event and I couldn’t have wished for a better start. I came home motivated and inspired in so many levels and immediately started
o think what can we do differently and/or better. What I loved about it the most is that even though there were people from so many different countries in the end we had so much in common. It was really just a bunch of great people with shared interest, ready to work during the days and party during the nights. I think we really fulfilled the international aspect of IFMSA, making friends all around the world. I want to use this opportunity to say a huge thank you to the TurkMSIC-Turkey OC team. They worked hard for months to ensure everything goes smoothly and it did. Including airport pickups, social program changes because of bad weather and even a broken leg. There was always somebody asking if we have everything we might need. I am sure they will be just as great hosts for the next March Meeting 2015 which will take place in Antalya. During the last day some of the participants attended the optional Istanbul tour. Firstly, they had a boat tour alongside Bosphorus. Then they went to see Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and Blue Mosque. The tour finished in Grand Bazaar. And since one day is not nearly enough to explore this beautiful city, my guess is that many of us will return to see more of it. I came home with memories I will cherish and many new friends I hope to see again as soon as possible. To anybody out there thinking about attending an international IFMSA event - don’t be scared and use the chance, you will certainly not regret it!
medical students worldwide | AM 2014 Taiwan