As chief residents we are very fortunate to have the opportunity to rotate at St. James’s hospital in Dublin, Ireland.  I was able to experience St. James’s this past February and March.  I had a great time when I was there and I would like to share my experience.  I had never been to Ireland and one of the first things that I noticed was how genuinely kind and friendly the people are there.  They are a very welcoming people.  I also appreciated how proud they are of their country. 

 St. James’s hospital is a large hospital in the heart of Dublin.  Professor Stassen and two other consultants run the Maxillofacial Surgery Unit at St. James’s.  They all practice the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery.  They run a busy service and take trauma call 365 days a year for most parts of Ireland.  I was there during St. Patrick’s Day and they definitely had lots of patients to be taken care of.  A difference when comparing their scope to what we do here at OSU is the amount of oncology that they treat.   It was great to both see new things and to appreciate the similarities in surgical techniques and treatment planning.  I’m glad I was able to experience how our profession is practiced in a different culture.   

 One of the reasons we are able to go St. James’s is that our departments have such a good relationship.   What also added to my experience in particular was that Kelly Podlosky, a recent graduate from 2 years ago, loved her experience at St. James’s so much that she moved to Ireland and has been working as a registrar there.  It was great to have Kelly be there to show me the ropes and to help me get settled in. 

 Outside of work I thoroughly enjoyed exploring both Dublin and seeing the beautiful country of Ireland.  By spending two months in Ireland you really have the opportunity to become a part of the Irish culture.  With lots of public transportation and several guided tours I had the chance to get to see the sights and get to meet people in the countryside. 

 I am so very grateful I had the opportunity for this educational experience.  It is so unique to get to immerse yourself in another culture during residency.  It is just one more reason I am glad to have trained at the Ohio State University!