Global Fellowship Experience: Reflections from Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
Elective Experience at Seoul National University Hospital
[Photo 1] Dr. Nikolaos Korodimos during his elective experience as an international fellow at the Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, March 2026.
In March 2026, I had the great privilege of completing an elective experience as an international fellow at the Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery at Seoul National University Hospital, under the guidance of Professor Samina Park.
This experience was, without exaggeration, one of the best and most meaningful experiences I have ever had. From the very first day, I was deeply impressed by the exceptional level of organization, professionalism, academic excellence, and dedication that characterizes SNUH. Everything was carried out with remarkable precision, respect, and commitment to the highest standards of patient care.
During my time as an international fellow in the Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, I had the opportunity to observe outstanding clinical practice, complex surgical procedures, and high-level multidisciplinary collaboration. The combination of advanced medical knowledge, modern technology, surgical expertise, and teamwork created an inspiring learning environment. For a young physician, being exposed to such a high standard of cardiothoracic surgical care was truly invaluable.
I am especially grateful to Professor Samina Park for her guidance, kindness, and support throughout my elective. Her professionalism, dedication to her patients, and commitment to medical education made a lasting impression on me. Observing her work and learning from her team was an honor and a major source of inspiration for my future career.
Beyond the clinical and academic aspects, what made this experience truly unforgettable was the welcoming atmosphere at SNUH. Everyone I met was kind, respectful, and willing to share knowledge. I felt supported from the beginning, and this made my stay not only educational but also personally meaningful.
My elective at Seoul National University Hospital broadened my perspective on international medical practice and strengthened my motivation to continue developing as a physician. It gave me the opportunity to experience medicine at an exceptional institution, where excellence, compassion, innovation, and teamwork are present every day.
I will always remember my time at SNUH with deep gratitude and admiration. It was a perfect experience in every sense, and I feel truly honored to have been part of the Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery as an international fellow, even for a short period of time.
Dr. Nikolaos Korodimos
[Photo 2] Dr. Nikolaos Korodimos with Professor Samina Park during his elective experience as an international fellow at Seoul National University Hospital, March 2026.
