‘The training at UMFST-UMCH gives me the linguistic and professional flexibility to work both in Germany and internationally.’

Four questions for Julika Tan

‘The UMFST-UMCH impressed me above all with its practical and structured concept.’

Profile

Name: Julika Tan

Home place: Hamburg

Birth place: London

Graduation year: 2025

Specialisation: Vascular surgery

Teaching hospital: Deaconess Foundation Hospital in Speyer

What motivated you to study medicine and when did you realise this? Was there a trigger? What was it? Are there any medical professionals in your family?

There are no doctors in my family, but my personal journey into medicine began early on: as a child, I was ill for a long time and during this period I learned how much it means when people care for you with compassion and competence. I wanted to pass on the feeling of safety and security that I was given back then. That sparked my desire to become a doctor myself. At the same time, I was fascinated by how the human body works and how medical knowledge can be used to heal people in a targeted way. This combination of compassion and science made a deep impression on me and had a lasting impact on my career aspirations.

What were the key factors that led you to study at UMCH, and what did you consider to be the most important elements of the UMCH programme?

I was particularly impressed by UMCH's practical and structured approach. The small learning groups allow for intensive supervision and individual support. The early clinical training was also particularly important to me: From the third year onwards, practical placements take place in teaching hospitals, which offers a realistic insight into everyday clinical practice. The clinical internship at the Diakonissen-Stiftungs-Krankenhaus in Speyer was particularly formative for me. There, I was accompanied by dedicated doctors who supported us students with great commitment and involved us in everyday medical practice on an equal footing. There were also many opportunities to get involved in scientific work during my studies.

What are your plans for the future? Do you already have ideas or even firm plans or agreements with future employers?

I am aiming to train as a specialist in vascular surgery; that is my clear goal. Where exactly I will start this training is still open at the moment. I am currently researching various options. At the moment, I would like to get to know different clinics and regions to find out where I can best develop both professionally and personally.

Can you imagine working as a doctor in your home region, or is that perhaps already planned?

Yes, I can very well imagine working in my home region later on. At the same time, I am open to other possibilities, including a return to England, as I was born there and am familiar with the English language and culture. The training at UMCH gives me the linguistic and professional flexibility to work both in Germany and internationally.