From the UK Clinical Program 2026

Clinical Electives in the Dept of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery

1) Why did you choose NMS?

I chose NMS because I had heard very positive reviews from a medical student at my university in the year above that spent their elective here. This combined with my long-standing interest of visiting Japan encouraged me to apply.

2) How was your study in Japan?

My four-week medical elective was spent in the otolaryngology department. Most days were spent in the operating theatre observing otolaryngology procedures, from simple tonsillectomies to complex neck dissections to resect tumours, the complex ones especially I’d never previously observed. It was also extremely interesting to compare and contrast the differences in operating practises and surgical workflow between Japan and the UK.

3) How was your life in Japan?

The time I spent in Japan was unforgettable. The excellent and reliable train system made it very easy to explore many districts in Tokyo. I was also able to do weekends trips to Kawaguchiko, Kamakura and Yokohama and spent a few days during golden week visiting Kyoto.

4) Any comment on NMS?

The doctors in the otolaryngology were very friendly, answering any questions I had and ensuring I knew what operations were happening at what times. Even when there were language barriers, communication remained good with the help of Google Translate and ChatGPT.

5) Do you have a message for people who are interested in studying at NMS?

I would highly recommend coming to NMS and am extremely grateful to the otolaryngology department for my time there.