Aikaterini Andrianopoulou, Patras, Greece
Hosting department: Secteur de neuroradiologie du Département d’imagerie médicale des Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
Supervisor: Dr Idil Gunes Tatar
I am honoured to have been selected for the EAN Student Teaser Fellowship, which enabled me to spend four enriching weeks at the Department of Neuroradiology at Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc in Brussels. I was inspired to apply by my enduring fascination with the human brain—its intricate anatomy, the complexities of its diseases, and its pathology. Throughout my time there, I had the opportunity to observe and analyse a wide variety of neurological cases using advanced imaging modalities like MRI and CT scans. This experience was invaluable for honing my skills in interpreting complex brain and spinal imaging results, while using the clinical information provided to make this interpretation easier and methodical.
From the beginning, Dr Idil Gunes Tatar, my mentor, provided consistent guidance and support. Her deep knowledge and willingness to explain imaging interpretations helped me navigate challenging cases and refine my diagnostic approach. The entire team, including Dr Tatar’s colleagues and residents, welcomed me warmly, creating an environment where I felt comfortable asking questions. Their eagerness to share insights on interpreting MRIs and CT scans was inspiring, and they guided me in understanding the nuances of radiological signs and patient histories.
Initially, I observed their practices, but as I grew more confident, I began discussing the CT scans/MRIs with the residents and finally I got to draft some CT scan reports myself, which I then discussed with the doctors, allowing me to apply and validate my learning in real-time. I was also fortunate to participate in weekly interdisciplinary meetings, known as staff meetings, which brought together specialists from neurology, pathology, neuroradiology, ORL and neurosurgery. These sessions highlighted the collaborative aspect of patient care and offered me a first-hand view of how different specialties converge to shape patient management strategies.
This fellowship not only broadened my technical skills, but also offered an inspiring glimpse into the collegial atmosphere of Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, where conversations often extended beyond work to topics of daily life, enriching the experience further.
I am deeply grateful for this opportunity, and I look forward to applying the skills and insights I gained during my time in Brussels as I continue my medical journey.
Tung Lam Nguyen, Roma, Italy
Hosting department: Neurology 2- Mazarin, Division Mazarin- CHU Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
Supervisor: Prof. Khê Hoang-Xuan
During my early years in medical school, I found myself drawn to the complexity of the nervous system, which is probably among the most fascinating organ systems in the human body. Neurology is undoubtedly one of the global research frontlines with enormous investment, however, significant gaps in understanding remain. The epidemiological tendency related to the ageing population, and the immense burden this places on research and treatment, further solidified my attention in this field. When a close friend introduced me to the Student Teaser Fellowship of the European Academy of Neurology (EAN), I felt this could be the perfect opportunity to explore my passion and confirm I was on the right path.
In 2023, I had a chance to travel to Paris for a research project on the alteration of the nervous system under the condition of cancer cachexia. Setting sight on further pursuing this field, I reached out to Prof. Hoang, a leading expert in neuro-oncology at the Department of Neuro-Oncology, Neurology Institute, Salpetriere Hospital, to express my interest in interning with his department. To my great pleasure, he quickly accepted, marking the start of my remarkable two-month adventure.
During the programme, I either attended classes with French medical students in the lecture hall or did clinical practice in the Neuro-Oncology department. At the department, I was assigned to a small group of students supervised by a resident. We normally arrived at 9 a.m. to collect patient information, discuss cases, or accompany the resident during examinations of new or complex patients. The residents were incredibly enthusiastic, teaching us everything from patient interviews and clinical examinations to analysing data for constructing the management strategy. They also provided us opportunities to perform clinical procedures like lumbar punctures and skin injury suturing, which were invaluable hands-on experiences not available in a classroom setting. Besides clinical rotation, I attended lectures on neurology topics and participated in clinical discussions with experts in the field of neurology.
My supervisor, Dr Tu, was a ball of energy and inspiration. My daily morning routine always began with a call: “Hey Lam, the patient in room 604 has something fascinating—go take a look!” or “I just attended an interesting course, do you want to join me?” His mentorship extended beyond professional knowledge, offering me insights about life, career paths, and the future.
I also had the honour of working closely with Mathieu, a French medical student at Sorbonne University. Together, we examined and monitored patients daily while discussing clinical scenarios. Mathieu not only supported me during my studies but also introduced me to French culture, and the incredible culinary experiences Paris has to offer. He became an amazing companion throughout my stay.
Lastly, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Prof. Hoang, whose calm demeanour and approach to patient care left a lasting impression. Observing his patient interactions and learning from his teaching sessions was a truly invaluable experience. Though I regret not taking a photo with him, his mentorship will always remain in my memory.
This trip marked a pivotal milestone in my journey, confirming that neurology is the field I am destined to pursue. I deeply regret not preparing more thoroughly for the language barrier. However, the support and kindness of Prof. Hoang, Dr Tu, Mathieu, and the medical staff at the Department of Neuro-Oncology, Neurology Institute, Salpetriere Hospital allowed me to overcome this challenge and grow both personally and professionally.
To the EAN and to all who contributed to this unforgettable experience, thank you.
Maria Pagiantza, Thessaloniki, Greece
Hosting department: University Hospital Zurich, Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Unit, Zurich, Switzerland
Supervisor: Dr Marian Galovic
I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity, in my final year of medical studies, to undertake an EAN Student Teaser Fellowship at the Epilepsy Unit of the University Hospital of Zurich, one of the most historic neurological clinics, under the supervision of Dr Marian Galovic.
The field of epilepsy fascinated me from the first moment, and over the course of this month, my interest grew even further as I had the chance to learn about all aspects and clinical management of epilepsy. I participated in the outpatient clinics where I met patients with epilepsy, whether experiencing their first seizure or having lived with epilepsy for years. Under the guidance of Dr Galovic, I was informed about the latest developments in antiseizure medications and had the opportunity to explore the different treatment options. Within a month, with the guidance and advice of Dr Galovic and Dr. Haeberlin, I gained knowledge on evaluating EEGs and I had the opportunity to observe patients who underwent 24-hour video EEG and to be, for the first time, in the Neurointensive Care Unit where patients with status epilepticus were also treated. I found the management and support of these patients extremely intriguing.
As part of my observership, I had the chance to visit the Stroke Unit and observe the management and care of stroke patients, some of whom also underwent EEG recordings. Thus, I gained insight into all dimensions and clinical experiences of an epileptologist.
This educational experience extended beyond clinical practice to include scientific training and research. PD Dr. med. Galovic gave me the opportunity to contribute to a research project on the prognosis of acute symptomatic seizures, showing me the importance of linking clinical experience with research.
I also had the chance to attend the residents’ educational program, which included lectures, symposiums, and a weekly journal club, through which I realized the importance of continuous education and updates on the latest developments.
I am grateful for all the help and guidance of the doctors at the Department of Neurology in the University Hospital of Zurich, who welcomed me, taught me about the management of neurological disorders, and demonstrated the importance of proper care for neurological patients.
According to all this, my experience at the Epilepsy Unit of the Department of Neurology at the University Hospital of Zurich was comprehensive, combining clinical practice, research, and training—exactly what every future neurologist and epileptologist hopes to receive.
I truly cannot imagine that this observership could have been any better! It was an inspirational experience, and within this one month, I saw the kind of epileptologist I aspire to be in the future.
I would like to sincerely thank the European Academy of Neurology for giving me this opportunity and my mentor during the EAN Student Teaser Fellowship and Head of the Epilepsy Unit of the University Hospital of Zurich, Dr Galovic.
