This internship has been an amazing experience, Pablo and I have learned a lot. So as this internship wraps up (we leave on Saturday D: D:), I just wanted to share some of the things we have learned here! So future interns, listen up! Here is my advice to you:
- Learn some Portuguese before you go. There are some key phrases you will hear all the time!
- Like “Tudo bem” or “Tudo bom”
- Visit La Maison often- they have good coffee and awesome employees.
- Go to the cultural events- they are a great way to meet people and learn about Brazil!
- To the females:the hospital has a dress code!
- Bring dark colored dress pants- you can’t wear skirts/dresses!
- Also, closed toed shoes
- Also, hair ties (your hair must be tied up)
- Also, you can’t wear any jewelry at the hospital
- And know you will be wearing a lab coat everyday!
- As far as weather goes with respect to clothes, a light sweater/jacket is good, but for the most part the weather is in the 60s or 70s at night and the 70s or 80s during the day
- Ask us for Henrique’s number, he’s the best taxi driver
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions
- Go to churrascos. They are heaven. Trust me.
- Meet everyone you can, in every department you can. You never know when you are going to need help.
- Be assertive. It’s a big hospital and youre a small fish. If you want to do something, don’t be afraid to make sure it gets done.
- Be prepared for things to take time. Once again, it’s a big hospital and often it takes some planning to get things done.
- Any time you have an idea for a blog post, write it down. If you are like me, you will forget it otherwise!
- Make sure to gets Whatsapp on your phone. People use it everywhere here, more than texting!
- Try and find a project to work on early on. It will allow you to meet lots of people and keeps you busy!
- Enjoy yourself and the hospital as much as you can. You are in an amazing, loving, generous place. Enjoy it!
