"The historical and cultural foundations of medicine": A perspective on AHS 3005
I participated in the Modern Medicine Through History in Greece study abroad program with the PHSRC during May Term 2026. I was drawn to the course because it integrated medicine, history, and experiential learning within a pre-health framework. As a pre-med student, much of my coursework has focused on the hard sciences, with less emphasis on the historical and cultural foundations of medicine. Although I had taken a few humanities courses, I had never had the opportunity to explore the origins of medicine in such an immersive way.
Studying abroad also aligned with my personal goal of engaging directly with cultures where history unfolded. History can be told from many different perspectives, and there is something incredibly meaningful about experiencing places firsthand rather than simply reading about them. Professionally, I hoped to deepen my understanding of the history of medicine, learn about another country's healthcare system, and gain a greater appreciation for the social determinants of health.
One piece of advice I would offer to students considering studying abroad is to keep an open mind and embrace flexibility. Traveling with a group means plans sometimes change, unexpected challenges arise, and not every moment is picture-perfect. Those experiences are just as valuable as the highlights. Approaching each day with curiosity and adaptability not only makes for a more rewarding trip but also builds skills that are invaluable for future healthcare professionals. In my experience, the PHSRC trip leaders were incredibly supportive, making it easier to step outside of my comfort zone and grow in new ways.
One of my favorite memories was hiking up Philopappos Hill to watch the sunset during one of our first evenings in Athens. Besides helping us adjust to the time change, it gave us our first breathtaking view of the city. Standing there, watching the sun dip behind the landscape, I remember thinking how remarkable it was that we were surrounded by thousands of years of history. That evening set the tone for the rest of the trip and reminded me to slow down and appreciate the beauty around me. I also loved the smaller moments, like listening to street musicians, wandering through local markets, and seeing fresh fruit sold on nearly every corner. Another highlight was exploring the Greek islands during a free day. Visiting the black sand beaches of Santorini and wandering through the whitewashed streets and blue-domed buildings of Oía felt almost surreal.
The little details are what have stayed with me the most. From trying pistachio-filled cannoli on Aegina Island to strolling through the marble streets of Athens, every day offered something memorable. We admired colorful flowers, spotted countless cats everywhere, and even encountered peacocks roaming freely. We learned about the symbolism of the evil eye and the iconic Greek meander pattern, ran laps on the track at the Panathenaic Olympic Stadium, and enjoyed unforgettable gelato almost every day. We explored the National Gardens of Athens and visited bucket-list destinations like the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Poseidon, and Epidaurus - the ancient birthplace of medicine. By the end of the trip, we had even picked up a few Greek phrases, like efharistó ("thank you") which I could recognize while watching Mamma Mia on the flight home.
Another aspect of Greece that has continued to stay with me is the lifestyle. There was a deep appreciation for fresh food, time outdoors, community, history, and enjoying everyday life. It was common to see people gathering with friends after work, walking through their neighborhoods, or taking public transportation throughout the city. Our tour guide, Simos, embodied this spirit. His genuine curiosity, warmth, and enthusiasm for sharing Greek history and culture were contagious. His joy and passion reminded me that learning is not just about acquiring knowledge - it is also about cultivating wonder.
As a pre-health student, this experience reinforced my desire to become a healthcare professional who practices with compassion, curiosity, and cultural humility. Visiting a refugee clinic and hearing firsthand from individuals experiencing homelessness gave me a deeper understanding of the ways social and economic factors shape health. Those experiences reminded me that healthcare extends far beyond diagnosing and treating illness. It also involves advocating for patients, addressing systemic barriers, and recognizing the humanity of every individual. The trip strengthened my commitment to serving marginalized communities and inspired me to pursue a career as a physician who not only provides compassionate care but also works toward meaningful and lasting change.
Looking back, this experience broadened my perspective in ways I never expected. I returned home with a deeper appreciation for the history of medicine, a greater understanding of healthcare across cultures, and lifelong memories. For any pre-health student considering a global learning experience, you will certainly learn about medicine - but you will also learn a lot about yourself!
Written By Briana Joseph