Maria’s story

I think it is very important that these opportunities exist, mainly for young nephrologists. The time they offer is variable (2-12 months), thus adapting to personal and work needs. Indeed an extension of the age limit can be considered if the applican't carreer has been interrupted due to childcare as in my case.

Definitely yes, it is a relevant experience. It is a training time extra to the common nephrology training which is:
1. Super-specialised
2. It takes place in the best reference hospital in Europe.

Finally, it is a winning competitive project, so I think that in itself is a merit. The experience of training outside your own country also reflects a special commitment and interest in your professional career and demonstrates the ability to adapt to working in a different environment.

It has allowed me to participate and collaborate in high-level scientific projects. It has helped me to expand my knowledge in the subspecialty of mineral metabolism in order to be able to implement it in my current place of work. I have learned how to design and set up a clinical bone biopsy programme that does not currently exist in my country.

I’ve learned the technique of bone biopsy and an approach to interpret bone histomorphometry. I have learned how the whole circuit is necessary to create a bone biopsy process. I have also learned how to set up a high-level research Project. I have improved my statistical skills. I’ve improved my English. I have had the opportunity to see how a nephrology service works in a country different from my own. I have been able to network with different professionals that will enrich my future both professionally and personally.