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Physical Therapy Study Abroad Programs

Studying abroad as a pre-physical therapy student can feel overwhelming, but since it's not a declared major, it often offers more flexibility. These programs are great for fulfilling electives while gaining international experience. Physical therapy blends scientific knowledge with compassionate care—studying abroad helps strengthen both clinical and interpersonal skills, essential for success in the field.
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97 Physical Therapy Study Abroad Programs

AIFS Abroad

9.11

37

AIFS Abroad in San José, Costa Rica: Semester

Spend a semester or academic year in the lively capital of San José with AIFS Abroad! You’ll earn up to 20 credits per semester from Universidad Veritas through various courses and internship opportunities. Courses are taught in English and Spanish. No previous Spanish language study is required for most programs. Universidad Veritas offers an internship program and volunteer opportunities that’ll help you make the most of your semester abroad. Their Spanish Language and Internship Program welcomes students with an advanced level of Spanish and a minimum of 2 years of college-level Spanish. It combines a 4-week Spanish language course with a 12-week internship placement within local companies or NGOs based on your major. You’ll also enjoy cultural and social activities, including: • Costa Rican cooking classes • Visits to local museums and historical sites • A 3-day trip to Arenal Volcano, hot springs, and Monteverde Cloud Forest • A 3-day trip to the beautiful Manuel Antonio National Park • Day trip to Poás Volcano, Doka Coffee Estate, and Sarchi artisans Optional excursions include a 2-day trip hiking and rafting in Sarapiquí.

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StudyAbroad.com

0

0

Study Abroad in the USA (Monroe University)

Experience the energy and excitement of New York City while studying at Monroe University! Renowned for its cutting-edge programs and focus on hands-on learning, Monroe offers a wide range of courses in business, arts, technology, and more. Small class sizes and experienced faculty ensure that students receive personalized attention and a world-class education. This program is perfect for students eager to challenge themselves academically and culturally. Whether you’re pursuing transferable credits or expanding your global network, you’ll leave with valuable skills and unforgettable memories. Located in the bustling heart of New York City, Monroe University offers an unbeatable location for students. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of NYC, with its endless cultural attractions, world-famous landmarks, and diverse neighborhoods. From exploring the art at the MET to strolling through Central Park or experiencing the buzz of Times Square, every day in New York is an adventure waiting to happen!

WorldStrides

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0

Study & Intern Abroad in Perth, Australia

In partnership with the University of Western Australia, WorldStrides offers a unique opportunity for Kinesiology or Exercise Science majors to combine a semester studying abroad with a professional internship. Intern with a local Australian Rules football team to experience just how passionate Western Australians are about this homegrown Aussie sport, and take three courses at the top-ranked University of Western Australia. Located in Perth—on the west coast of Australia, participants also get to enjoy wonderful weather, beautiful beaches, and a laid-back vibe, combined with a cosmopolitan city that boasts an enticing array of cafes, restaurants, cultural activities, and more.

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CIEE College Study Abroad

9.29

58

CIEE Arts and Sciences (Hayang University) in Seoul, Korea

Your Arts + Sciences program in Seoul lasts a full semester and is designed for students from all academic backgrounds. You will enroll in a combination of CIEE courses, host institution courses, and courses taught online through CIEE's global academic partner, ASU. Enhance your experience with co-curricular and extracurricular activities while immersing yourself in Korean culture. Live and learn in Seoul! Seoul is South Korea’s high-tech capital, celebrated for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and cutting-edge advancements in science and technology.

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IFSA, Institute for Study Abroad

9

4

IFSA James Cook University Partnership, Townsville

Study for a semester or academic year at James Cook University in Townsville, where world-class academics meet natural wonder. With around 13,000 students, the campus fosters a tight-knit community and a welcoming atmosphere, unlike larger Australian universities. Located in coastal Queensland, Townsville puts tropical rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef at your doorstep. Pursue ecology, environmental science, or marine biology at one of the world’s top-ranked research institutions. Field-based learning opportunities abound, offering hands-on experience in one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. Included in the program are optional activities and excursions designed to deepen your connection with local communities and cultures—at no extra cost. Whether you're diving into research or exploring the region, this program blends academic excellence with unforgettable adventure.

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MAXIMO NIVEL

9.17

42

Intern Abroad in Latin America | Top-Rated Internships

Do your international internship with Maximo Nivel - get international work experience in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. - Education (K-12) - Special Education - Micro-Business - Hospitality & Tourism - Human Rights - Medical Please take note of these qualifications: - Interns should be fluent in English. - Spanish language skills are only required for Micro-Business and Medical internships. - Interns should be enrolled or have completed a Bachelor's Degree in a related discipline. - Medical interns must present proof of their medical training. Since 2003, Maximo Nivel has been a leader in educational travel and study abroad. Our work-study-travel programs host more than 4,000 people per year. We are a professional, ethical, and hard-working organization that is completely dedicated to providing a great experience to every participant, student, traveler, and client! Every day, we strive to set ourselves apart and provide the best internship, education, and cultural experiences in Latin America along with top-notch client service and great home base facilities. Live it!

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International Medical Aid (IMA)

10

4

Advanced Opportunities in Physical Therapy/Pre-PT with IMA

International Medical Aid's (IMA) Physiotherapy Internships were created for aspiring and established physical therapists. Designed by IMA, a not-for-profit organization founded at Johns Hopkins University, this program bridges the gap between academic study and practical, hands-on experience in some of the most underserved regions of East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. Whether you're an undergraduate, a graduate student, or a practicing clinician, our internships offer a platform to hone your skills and make a tangible difference in the health and well-being of communities in need. Our commitment extends beyond healthcare delivery; we immerse you in the local culture and breathtaking landscapes through adventure-filled programs, guided by experts who ensure a safe and enriching experience. Join us in shaping a healthier future for underserved populations while advancing your career through invaluable clinical exposure and graduate school admissions support. Embark on an IMA physiotherapy internship and embrace the opportunity to grow professionally and personally, contributing meaningfully to global health initiatives.

IES Abroad

9

2

IES Abroad Seoul Direct Enrollment - Yonsei University

IES Abroad partners with Yonsei University, a prestigious private research university in Seoul and a trusted partner of IES Abroad’s Study Abroad Foundation (SAF), to offer the Seoul Direct Enrollment - Yonsei University Program for Fall, Spring, and Academic Year terms. Seoul is a dynamic metropolis where ancient history and modern life converge. And you might have heard that Seoul has been ranked the third “best student city” according to the QS World University Rankings® 2022! Winning factors include a “24/7” culture thanks to night markets, late-night tea houses, and 115 museums; nine major subway (plus bus) lines so everything feels convenient and a population of nearly 10 million people to enjoy all that it has to offer. So picture it: you’re walking across campus at Yonsei University listening to your favorite K-Pop songs, hoppang (steamed bun) from a pojangmacha (street cart) in hand, ready to take on the day in bustling Seoul.

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SIT Study Abroad

8

2

SIT Study Abroad: IHP Health and Community

Explore how healthcare is accessed and delivered in Washington, DC, India, South Africa, and Argentina. Compare health systems at global, national, and community levels, and study how inequities affect care across diverse contexts. Learn to critically analyze some of the most pressing health issues of this global moment such as social inequities, chronic and infectious disease, climate change, and the economic drivers of healthcare. Analyze how positioning health as a human right shapes policy and health outcomes worldwide. This program offers the choice to do a minor in global health or public health. MONEY MATTERS SIT has given an average of over $1.3 million in scholarships and grants to SIT Study Abroad students in recent years and is committed to ensuring you have the information necessary to apply for such funding. Our program costs include academics, excursions, accommodations, airport transfers, meals, and health insurance. Be sure to discuss how study abroad costs are handled at your school with your study abroad advisor and read the website for more specific information.

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Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona

9

1

Study Abroad at UAB: Tailor Made Study Programs for Groups

This is a unique, tailor-made learning and living experience integrated with the academic quality of the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. Our customized programs are for institutions and agencies that want to provide groups of international students with an educational experience at a university of international excellence. Participants study on the main campus just outside the city or at a campus in central Barcelona. Individual programs are tailored by selecting from more than 100 elective subjects in English or Spanish across areas like Business, Communication, Medicine and Nursing, Law, Arts and Humanities, and Spanish and Catalan Language. Guarantee maximum flexibility! Programs are available all year round, with flexible timetables and no minimum duration. Students can add accommodation, meals, transport, cultural visits, and leisure activities.

Go Abroad China Ltd.

9.7

149

Paid Internships in Fortune 500 Companies in China

Go Abroad China’s Paid Internship Program connects international students, graduates, and young professionals with guaranteed placements in Fortune 500 companies, multinational corporations, and innovative startups across China. Since 2003, we’ve placed over 4,000 participants from 50+ countries into 2,000+ paid internships spanning 20+ industries—including business, finance, engineering, IT, marketing, law, hospitality, and more. Designed for ambitious and motivated individuals aged 18+, our year-round programs offer real-world, cross-cultural experience in booming cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou. No Mandarin skills required—many placements are in English-speaking environments. All-inclusive packages from $1,980 cover accommodation, visa support, Mandarin classes, orientation, business/cultural activities, 24/7 local assistance, and a risk-free refund policy. With 90% of interns securing jobs within 3 months and 20% receiving full-time offers, this is your gateway to a global career. We understand that every intern's needs and budget are unique, which is why we offer fully customizable package options, and we will tailor a program specifically for you.

Linguistic Horizons

9.54

13

Nutrition & Natural Medicine in Peru

Gain practical experience in holistic health while exploring the Peruvian Andes. The Nutrition & Natural Medicine program in the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas, Peru, is a unique opportunity. You will learn about Peruvian superfoods, food as medicine, healthy cooking, natural Andean medicine, nutrition, cleansing practices, herbal and plant-based medicine, aromatherapy, organic farming, and more. You will gain an entirely new perspective on health and natural medicine by participating in this life-changing experience. If you want to stay longer in Peru, you may extend your stay by adding an internship, volunteering placement, or taking Spanish classes before or after the program.

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Top Rated Program Study Abroad in Bulgaria 2025

Therapy Abroad Inc.

9.46

24

Bridging Speech & Culture: Travel & Explore Eastern Europe

Embark on a transformative journey through Bulgaria, Greece, and Turkey, where speech therapy meets cultural exploration. This unique program blends learning and immersive travel, offering participants the chance to visit speech therapy clinics, university programs, and local organizations while experiencing the rich history and traditions of Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean. Walk the ancient streets of Athens, explore the vibrant bazaars of Istanbul, and discover Bulgaria’s hidden gems—all while engaging with local speech-language professionals and gaining real-world experience in diverse clinical settings. From historical landmarks to professional workshops, this adventure fosters personal growth, cultural awareness, and clinical insight. Whether you're a student, professional, or passionate traveler, this journey offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore your world, expand your global perspective, and learn about service provision in the region. Join us and let your voice be part of a cross-cultural conversation!

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Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy

8.95

20

Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy Certification

The Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy offers the only COMTA Accredited Massage Therapy study abroad program in the world. The 600/700-hour certification program is designed to prepare students to successfully pass the United States National Licensing Exam (MBLEX) and qualifies graduates to become licensed in most US states and many places worldwide. Our unique and comprehensive curriculum has been developed by leaders in the massage field for over 10 years. Instruction is conducted in English by professionals and educators from the U.S. including massage therapists, authors, business owners, naturopathic physicians, and chiropractors. Organized as a four-month intensive and immersive program, sessions are offered two times per year. The program includes accommodations in fully equipped bungalows on campus, just seconds away from the beach. Students may also explore off-campus housing. Samara, Costa Rica is a quaint beach town nestled in the jungle on the edge of a tranquil bay. The white sand beaches stretch for miles, and the town is full of delicious local and international restaurants. Students love to explore the many outdoor activities and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

CEA

9.57

23

CEA CAPA Education Abroad in San José, Costa Rica

San José, the capital of Costa Rica, blends urban life and natural beauty with more than 800 miles of coastline and acres of lush rainforests lying just a short drive from this diverse metropolitan center. Study a wide range of subjects with CEA CAPA’s partner university: Veritas University. It boasts a large international student body and diverse curriculum including international business, intensive and medical Spanish language, environmental sciences, and health sciences. Courses are available in both Spanish and English. Get the most out of your time in Costa Rica by taking advantage of the numerous cultural and learning opportunities CEA CAPA provides. Whether you enjoy concerts, sports, cooking classes, language exchanges, or something entirely different, our resident staff will get you involved in the local culture. Interested in going abroad with CEA CAPA? Contact us to get started!

Academic Programs International

9.6

5

API: Experience Leeds, England (Scholarships Available)

Students who study abroad in Leeds with API at the University of Leeds will choose from a wide range of undergraduate classes open to British and international students. From Stonehenge and Tower Bridge to Eton and Oxford, England is loaded with cherished icons of past eras. But it also does modernity with confidence and panache left over from its days in the never-setting sun. Fashion, fine dining, clubbing, shopping – England’s rank is among the world’s best, offering endless cultural and social opportunities for visitors and residents alike. Leeds offers one of the widest selections of courses in the U.K., and the opportunity to enroll with locals makes it one of our most integrated program options. Also, the University of Leeds has over 300 clubs and societies you can join for an authentic student experience!

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Toucan Abroad

9.83

58

Physical Therapy Shadowing in Costa Rica

Join Toucan Abroad and other students from around the US in this highly enriching program. We aim to expand your perspective and grow into future leaders in the field of physical therapy through exposure to the work of licensed PT specialists. You’ll shadow them while they provide expert patient care. Evolve by developing a more holistic view of yourself, your future profession, and the world through immersion into a different society. For two or three weeks, you’ll engage in 40 hours or 60 hours of clinical observation in different PT specialties. You’ll also have time to bask in the breathtaking natural beauty of Costa Rica and experience its rich culture. Toucan Abroad gives you the opportunity to stand out among other PT school applicants through a unique, unparalleled experience abroad through this program.

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University of Limerick

9

2

Study Abroad Semester Program

The University of Limerick (UL) offers an unforgettable experience. Discover a transformative journey at one of Ireland’s most prestigious universities. UL welcomes international students and provides diverse academic opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities, and a warm, inclusive community. Studying abroad is a unique time in your education. At UL, we want to be as flexible as possible to ensure incoming students have the option to make the most of their experience with us. Thus, our semester program has been designed to accommodate academic and personal goals by offering various courses across numerous disciplines. Whether you’re studying engineering, business, humanities, or science, UL provides the resources to customize your learning experience. As one of Ireland’s foremost universities, UL is recognized for its dedication to an outstanding student experience, commitment to graduate employability, and research with societal impact. Benefit from an extensive network of partnerships with national and international industries, government bodies, and communities.

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Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program

9.79

34

Shadow Doctors in Italy's Best Hospitals – 40 to 90 Hours

Get out of your comfort zone—and into the hospital, abroad. In today’s world, future healthcare professionals need global awareness, cultural sensitivity, and a strong international network to thrive in medicine. The Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program, offered in over 10 cities across Italy, gives you the chance to shadow English-speaking physicians in real clinical settings—no Italian required. From surgeries and patient consultations to hospital rounds, you’ll rotate across multiple specialties while earning 40+ AAMC-compliant shadowing hours. Programs run for 2 to 5 weeks and include housing, cultural activities, 24/7 local support, and optional academic credit. Shadowing abroad is a unique way to strengthen your med school application while gaining global clinical experience, exploring Italy, and connecting with other pre-health students from around the world. If you're dreaming of travel but don’t want to pause your healthcare journey, the Doctors in Italy Fellowship is the perfect way to do both—seamlessly.

Projects Abroad

0

0

Occupational Therapy Work in the Philippines

Join this Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy project as an intern in the Philippines. Interns can help treat and further the rehabilitation of patients in need. While interns are contributing to their lives, they will also build on their own skills and experience in the field. During the internship, participants will work closely with disabled patients and observe and treat various illnesses and conditions. This placement is ideal for physical therapy students looking to build on their experience, as well as graduates interested in putting their skills and knowledge to good use. While many experience lifelong disabilities, others are able to overcome mobility problems with appropriate therapy. Severely disadvantaged families, especially in Northern Cebu, are unable to afford special therapy sessions because of the high cost or lack of nearby facilities.

How to Study Physical Therapy Abroad

Prepare to Study Abroad

Understand the benefits

Studying physical therapy abroad gives you more than just course credit. It adds real-world depth to your future career.

  • Learn how healthcare works globally. Whether you're shadowing therapists in public hospitals or private clinics, you’ll see different models of care and treatment approaches firsthand.
  • Strengthen both your science and your soft skills. Physical therapy requires clinical know-how and empathy. Working abroad helps you build cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and patient communication.
  • Make your resume stand out. International experience shows future employers that you’re motivated, globally aware, and ready for hands-on challenges in diverse settings.

Things to know

Physical therapy is a science-based field, but flexibility is key when going abroad.

  • Credits and course alignment - Since pre-PT isn’t usually a declared major, most students focus on general education or elective credits while abroad. Still, check if your school accepts your study abroad program’s coursework.
  • Clinical hours vs. observation - Many programs abroad don’t offer hands-on patient care due to local regulations, but shadowing and observational experiences are common and valuable.
  • Language matters - You don’t have to be fluent in the local language, but learning basic terms for anatomy, directions, or greetings will help you connect with staff and patients.

Popular Providers

Frequently Asked Questions

Studying physical therapy abroad exposes you to diverse healthcare systems, cutting-edge research, and hands-on clinical training in different cultural settings. It enhances your adaptability, broadens career opportunities, and helps you build a global professional network. Many programs also offer specialized courses that may not be available in your home country.

Countries known for top-tier physical therapy programs include the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the U.K., which offer strong clinical training and research opportunities. Germany, the Netherlands, and Sweden also have highly regarded programs with innovative teaching methods. When choosing a country, consider accreditation, cost, and internship options that align with your career goals.

Some universities offer online coursework for physical therapy-related degrees, such as pre-PT programs or continuing education. However, due to the hands-on nature of the field, a full physical therapy degree typically requires in-person clinical training. Hybrid programs may combine online theoretical courses with on-site practical components to provide flexibility while ensuring essential hands-on experience.

Start by researching universities with accredited physical therapy programs and strong clinical training opportunities. Look for institutions with experienced faculty, modern facilities, and internship partnerships with hospitals or rehabilitation centers. Checking student reviews, program rankings, and curriculum details can help determine the best fit for your goals. Scholarships and cost considerations are also important factors.

The duration of a physical therapy program depends on the country and level of study. A bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy typically takes 3–4 years, while a Doctor of Physical Therapy program can take an additional 3 years after a bachelor’s. Some countries require postgraduate clinical training, adding to the timeline. Specialized certifications or advanced degrees can extend study duration further.

Latest Program Reviews

Holistic Healing and Cross-Cultural Care: My Pre-Physical Therapy Internship with IMA in Cusco, Peru

November 26, 2025by: Avery Nicholas - United StatesProgram: Advanced Opportunities in Physical Therapy/Pre-PT with IMA
10

This was an incredibly full and insightful experience for me as a pre-physical therapy student. I had never had language or cultural experiences like this before, and I learned so much. Everyone at IMA and the hospital was patient and kind to me and supportive of all of my experiences (good or challenging). I loved this internship and would highly recommend it to other students interested in healthcare, rehabilitation, and global medicine. Thank you for everything! Cusco, Perú was a surprise, to say the least. I had not expected to fall more in love with healthcare—or with a place—quite so much. To start, I was nervous to begin my International Medical Aid (IMA) adventure, but I had been in uncomfortably new situations before. I had jumped into the unknown and reminded myself that it wouldn’t be unknown forever. When I first arrived, I remember thoroughly investigating the schedule and looking around at my fellow cohort members. Little did I know that my roommate would become one of my best friends and that I would learn more about what it means to become a healthcare provider—and future physical therapist—than I ever thought possible. One of the most memorable lectures given, in my opinion, was about the differences between Peruvian and U.S. healthcare systems. Dr. Fabricio began the lecture by asking us to define the word health. Health. This word is used in almost every sentence or conversation in the healthcare profession—it’s literally in the name of the field. So it was surprising when we all looked a little incredulous and were unable to give an articulate answer. Health is defined as the complete state of well-being (Fabricio 2025). This understanding—that all parts of being human are essential to understanding the whole—is fundamental to healthcare and especially meaningful in physical therapy, where we treat function, lifestyle, and the person as a whole. I loved this lecture in particular because it highlighted how being holistic is important in becoming and being a great clinician. One of the primary differences between Peruvian and American healthcare is the emphasis on understanding other approaches to medicine, including traditional or holistic methods, apart from symptom-based diagnoses. From herbal remedies such as coca tea to alternative religious or spiritual solutions, doctors in Peru look at a multitude of options when working with patients. “The investigation of plant mixtures used in traditional medicine in Northern Peru yielded a total of 974 herbal preparations used to treat 164 different afflictions” (Bussmann et al. 2010). Traditional medicine is given serious consideration alongside formally trained medicine. There isn’t always a black-or-white solution, but rather many different ways of solving a given issue. This holistic approach is incredibly different from how allopathic medical training in the United States often functions, which is primarily symptom-based. This was very impactful to me, as I think that holistic healthcare is often lacking in the United States. It is invaluable to look at the entirety of a person’s health rather than just their symptoms. One of the main aspects of healthcare that was further developed during my experience with International Medical Aid was the reminder that, whether as a physician, physical therapist, or any provider, you are working with people—not just their symptoms. Your patients are more than the sheet of paper in front of you. A very interesting traditional medicinal approach that was widely used was chewing coca leaves. “Andean Indians have used coca leaves (Erythroxylon coca and related species) for centuries to enhance physical performance” (Casikar et al. 2010). It was common knowledge that coca tea was invaluable at high altitudes and for physical exertion in the Andean climate. For many problems involving headaches, nausea, or other symptoms of altitude sickness, coca leaves were prescribed. While there are some traditional medicine types in the United States, most are not considered central in general practice and are rarely integrated into mainstream care. As I am from a moderate altitude, I did not drink coca tea very often, but the times that I did, I noticed that the caffeine and properties of the leaves helped to alleviate uncomfortable symptoms I was experiencing. One of the most memorable times that I took advantage of coca leaf properties was on IMA’s clinical outreach day in a rural community in the Andean mountains. The community was settled at approximately 13,000 feet in elevation, so I had a slight headache driving up. This was one of my favorite days during my IMA experience due to the connections I made with the doctors and community members, as well as the sheer amount of knowledge I gained. I learned more than I could have imagined about rural health clinics—how doctors and providers properly evaluate patients in low-income settings and how to ask genuine questions that look at an entire person, not just their pain. As someone interested in physical therapy, this was especially powerful: I saw that medicine and rehabilitation are about the health of a person’s life and who they are, not just their list of symptoms or their diagnosis. I was able to see the true care that doctors and providers put into their work and their patients. This is what I wish to emulate when I become a physical therapist. I want to truly see people for who they are, not just their problems or functional limitations. International Medical Aid was an incredibly impactful experience that I would recommend to any student interested in cross-cultural experiences in healthcare, especially those exploring careers in physical therapy, rehabilitation, or patient-centered care. I am incredibly grateful to the IMA staff and the doctors at EsSalud for their patience and guidance, without which I would not have created such valuable connections or learned so deeply about what it means to be a healthcare provider.

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