DefinePK

Abstract

Three weeks back in October 1998, I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to attend the 9th European Student’s Conference conducted at the Humboldt University of Berlin. The participants at this four day conference included 300 medical students from 42 different countries from around the world. A total of 5 students including nyseif represented Pakistan. The conference allowed medical students to present their research on topics ranging from basic science to clinical medicine. Vast learning opportunities for all participating students were created and included academic experiences such as the opening lecture given by Nobel Laureate Professor Hamilton 0. Smith on his work on the human genome project. Along with the rich academic experience, the conference also allowed students to engage in various levels of social interactions. The exchange of cultural and geo-historical ideas and perspectives and the hospitality of our hosts was thoroughly enjoyed by us! Coming back home, I feel that such research- oriented academic endeavors for medical students should be promoted and encouraged in countries like Pakistan and the developing world at large.