Summer of Service – Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe and Hospital Pequeno Príncipe

by Julia Ramos

My experience at Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe and Hospital Pequeno Príncipe in Brazil has been nothing short of transformative. This journey has helped define the kind of compassionate and informed professional I aspire to become.

I had the honor of presenting a workshop and giving a lecture on my experience as an international student in the U.S. and the differences between the psychology field there and in Brazil.

Sharing my journey and insights with fellow students was a true highlight. It was deeply fulfilling to connect through shared passion and exchange perspectives that cross borders.

At the outpatient care clinic, I administered the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD) to patients before their medical appointments.

This initial step of psychological screening plays a crucial role in understanding the mental state of each patient and has taught me how subtle but significant mental health indicators can be in clinical practice.

At the hospital, I shadowed psychologists in a wide range of specialties, including neurology, oncology, nephrology, short bowel syndrome, and the surgery ICU.

Each specialty comes with its own challenges, approaches, and patient needs.Being immersed in these different areas has sparked deep reflection about my role as a future healthcare professional.