Driven by a passion to explore how physical therapy is practiced across cultures, Madison embarked on a life-changing journey to Athens, Greece for a 4-week Physical Therapy internship.
Immersing herself in a new environment, she not only gained valuable professional experience but also discovered a deeper sense of independence, confidence, and resilience.
Read on to learn how stepping out of her comfort zone and embracing a new culture helped shape both her personal and professional growth.
Hi Madison! Tell us about your role as an intern abroad!
As a Physical Therapy intern in Greece, I assist licensed physiotherapists in daily patient care, with a focus on rehabilitation exercises, mobility support, and observation of treatment techniques. My responsibilities include preparing treatment areas, guiding patients through basic therapeutic movements under supervision, and ensuring a safe and comfortable environment. I also contributed by maintaining organization within the clinic and helping staff manage time efficiently during high-volume patient hours.
How did your role develop during the internship?
When I first arrived in Athens, I had certain expectations about contributing to my placement, how the work environment would function, and how quickly I could make a meaningful impact. I came in expecting to hit the ground running, applying my academic knowledge in a hands-on setting and offering support to both staff and patients.
As I spent more time at the clinic and gained a better understanding of the local context, I realized that my progress and contribution would look different. The pace of work is often slower, not out of inefficiency, but due to a strong emphasis on relationships, trust, and long-standing routines rooted in the local culture.
It became clear my role was not to initiate quick changes, but to observe, adapt, and offer support in a way that respected the existing system. Through this experience, I’ve come to understand that being helpful isn’t always about doing, it’s often about listening, being present, and showing a willingness to learn and understand how and why things are done a certain way.
How did your internship contribute to your career goals?
This international Physical Therapy internship has been an important step toward achieving my long-term goal of working in healthcare, specifically in a patient-centered role such as physical therapy or rehabilitation.
I’ve gained firsthand experience in observing treatment plans, understanding the day-to-day responsibilities of healthcare professionals, and seeing how patient care is tailored to individual needs—even within the constraints of limited resources.
One of the most valuable aspects of this intern abroad experience has been working in an environment where I don’t speak the local language. This has taught me patience, with both myself and others. It has pushed me to slow down, listen more carefully, and find creative ways to connect with both patients and colleagues. These experiences have helped me become more empathetic and adaptable - qualities that are crucial in healthcare settings.
As an intern in Greece, how did you approach cross-cultural communication?
Above all, I approach cross-cultural communication with humility and curiosity. I recognize that misunderstandings can happen, but staying respectful and open helps bridge those gaps. This mindset has helped me form stronger connections with both patients and staff members, even when we don’t always speak the same language fluently.
When interacting with someone from a different culture, especially when there’s a language barrier, I focus on being patient, clear, and observant. One of the most effective strategies I used during my internship was simplifying my language and avoiding slang or overly technical terms.
I tried to speak slowly and clearly, and paid close attention to non-verbal cues like facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language to help interpret meaning and gauge understanding.
When possible, I made an effort to learn and use basic phrases in Greek to show respect and help put the patient or colleague at ease. Even small gestures like greeting someone in their native language helped build trust and open up communication.
If I was unsure whether something had been understood, I’d gently ask for confirmation or repeat myself in a different way. I also learnt to be more comfortable with silence, allowing extra time for the other person to process or respond.
How do you feel more empowered after your internship abroad?
This Physical Therapy internship in Greece has not only confirmed my interest in healthcare but also expanded my understanding of what it truly means to support and empower others in a clinical context.
After completing this Physical Therapy internship abroad, I feel significantly more empowered to be successful in my field. Being immersed in a real clinical environment gave me the chance to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom in a hands-on, meaningful way. I now have a clearer understanding of how physiotherapy works beyond textbooks, how to interact with patients, observe their progress, adapt treatment plans, and communicate effectively within a healthcare team.
One of the most empowering parts of the experience was seeing how much impact thoughtful, personalized care can have. Watching patients improve, especially the young boy with idiopathic toe walking, reminded me that success in this field isn’t just about technical skills; it’s about building trust, showing compassion, and being consistent. I feel more confident in my ability to contribute to that kind of care.
I also feel empowered by the challenges I overcame. Working in a different country, adapting to a new healthcare system, and navigating language and cultural differences showed me that I’m capable of stepping outside of my comfort zone and still thriving. That realization has strengthened my sense of purpose and confirmed that I’m on the right path in pursuing a career in healthcare.
What advice would you give to others considering an internship abroad?
If I could give advice to anyone considering a similar internship, it would be this: let go of the pressure to “prove” your impact. Focus instead on being open, observant, and respectful.
The value you bring is not only in your technical skills, but in your ability to adapt, build trust, and approach unfamiliar environments with humility. It’s okay not to have all the answers, what matters most is your willingness to learn and grow from the experience.
Enter with curiosity, humility, and an open mind. You’re not just there to contribute, you’re also there to learn, observe, and grow. Listen more than you speak, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or clarify if something is unclear. People will usually appreciate your effort to understand rather than pretend to know.
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