www.doi.org/10.67214/g9qrns48
As a fourth-year medical student, I have learned over the years that scientific congresses of
fer valuable experiences beyond traditional medical education. The 47th International Medical
Students’ Congress (IMSC) took place in Ohrid, North Macedonia, bringing together students,
researchers, and healthcare professionals from various countries to exchange knowledge, devel
op practical skills, and establish professional connections. As an active participant presenting
a clinical case report, I was honored to be selected by the Scientific Committee to present my
work, titled “Acute Stanford Type A Aortic Dissection as the Initial Manifestation of Suspected
Marfan Syndrome.” The experience allowed me to learn to professionally present complex med
ical cases to a distinguished scientific audience, discuss clinical findings with experts, and confi
dently defend and debate a case not typically found in textbooks. Presenting my case report was
both challenging and rewarding. Preparing for the presentation involved a thorough literature
review, a detailed analysis of clinical findings, and learning how to explain medical information
in a simple and clear way.
Alongside the scientific presentations, the congress also offered practical workshops in fields
such as surgery and anesthesiology, allowing us medical students to gain hands-on experience
in areas of particular clinical interest. These sessions showed us the importance of teamwork,
communication, and attention to detail, while also connecting theoretical knowledge with
everyday clinical practice. What I found particularly meaningful was the opportunity to interact
with professors and experts from North Macedonia, Serbia, and Turkey. Through their lectures
and personal clinical experiences, they created discussions that were not only educational but
also genuinely inspiring for young medical students. Listening to experienced physicians speak
so passionately about their profession further strengthened my motivation to continue learning
and growing in medicine.
At the same time, the congress created an environment that encouraged interaction between
students from diverse universities and international backgrounds, fostering the exchange of
ideas and experiences across different educational and cultural settings. . During scientific ses
sions, workshops, and informal discussions, we shared a strong enthusiasm for medicine and
a genuine desire to learn from each other. These exchanges, together with discussions about
future careers and new friendships, showed that professional growth extends beyond academic
achievements. The connections made at such events often provide valuable support, motivation,
and opportunities for future collaboration.
Reflecting on this experience, I became more aware of how important environments like these
are in shaping young medical professionals. Beyond the academic program itself, the congress
created a space where knowledge, experience, and diverse perspectives were openly shared
among students and physicians from various backgrounds.
Participating in discussions, observing different approaches to medicine, and engaging with
people who share the same dedication to healthcare made the entire experience both memora
ble and motivating.
148
Macedonian Journal of Anaesthesia
The 47th International Medical Students’ Congress not only broadened my perspective on med
icine but also reinforced my enthusiasm for continued learning and professional growth.
Sincerely,
Jordanoski Matej
Medical Student, Faculty of Medicine
University of “Ss. Cyril and Methodius”
Skopje Republic of North Macedonia