Jazmin Melo-Vazquez

Overall Experience

I had a great time in Norway with my classmates and professor Dr. Bowker. We were able to visit so many different healthcare institutions, OsloMet, and many beautiful landmarks and sites. It was awesome to be able to meet with the Norwegian students again after having them here for a few weeks as well. Not only did I learn so much about the differences in our healthcare systems, but I also was able to experience so much of their culture.

Learning experience

We were able to visit a hospital where they treat the unhoused population that struggle with substance use disorder. I learned so much about how we can treat them primarily for only what they want treated in that moment (wound, infection, etc.) and not detoxing them if they don't want. This is very different from what we do here in the states, and this has inspired me to be more of an advocate for this population.

Memorable experience

I really loved going on our fjord dinner cruise, being able to bond with my classmates and professor during this experience was unforgettable!

What did you not expect?

In Norway people aren't automatically detoxed if they want to be treated and have a substance use disorder. They are given medication that is chemically the equivalent of what they are addicted to in order to reduce or avoid withdrawal symptoms. This is very different from what we do in the emergency department, we help them with their withdrawal symptoms but don't keep them from detoxing in order to treat them. This changed the way I see this population and how I want to approach their care. I have become more of an advocate for them by ensuring that they feel comfortable enough to voice whether they need more medications to help with their symptoms during their time with us.

What advice would you give?

Do it! It seemed a little scary for me at first due to the costs and never having done an experience like this before but there are so many scholarships to apply for. I had the best time and was able to learn so much more than I thought I would, I highly recommend it.

How has this experience impacted your life?

This experience helped me view certain aspects of how I carry out care at my job, it has pushed me to want to be more of an advocate for my patients. It also opened the door for me to be able to present my research proposal at OsloMet. Having this experience will help with my goal of one day applying to medical school and continuing my education in this way.

How did you learn about this experience?

I learned about this opportunity through Dr. Bowker during my orientation initially as a new student.

International Connections