I don't think its really Poland that is the issue, it seems to be rather the 4 year English language programs. Perhaps Poland is the only one who has these. I don't know of any in the Czech or Slovak Republics or Hungary for that matter.

Those programs were designed specifically for North American students. It is a radically different teaching approach to teach in the 'American style' vs. the European style and my own personal reason for doubting that it can be successful lies in the above.

The 6 year programs are supposed to be 2 year 'pre-med' and then 4 years clinical but in fact, they are more blended than that. We are doing a medical biology and anatomy in the first 2 years. Some courses like microbiology start in 2nd year and run into the 3rd year. The format is idential to the Slovak language program, content, exam formats etc. and the professors are used to that.

All schools in the region are in a desparate need for cash. Professors make no money and work insane hours. So, the programs were likely started to make money for the schools. Not for more esoteric reasons like 'cultural exchanges' or 'diversity in the classrom' no. it was, and is, money only. BUT the biggest difference is that in America if you pay we have a concept of some type of service for that money. But that basic concept is not here. Yes, you paid, you have a problem? Oh well. Actually the saying in Slovak is bohu ziel = God is sad = its impossible or nothing can be done.

You know what? I'm a firm believer in that if you are type of individual willing to go through what most IMG's have to go through to be a physician, you will make any experience work for you.

We are being given an opportunity to learn the art and science of medicine. For those eager to learn and with an interest and passion in the subjects, you will be successful. For those expecting it to be like America and living out a dream that belongs to their parents, or expecting to be spoon fed the material (I'm talking like being given the name of good texts) then this is not the place for you.

You must say. OK I have to take BioChem this year. What does the First Aid book say is important, what does the official topic list say is important. What books are highly ranked from the First Aid book. And study. If you get a good profs (in this example ours are AWESOME - better than Queen's) then you are lucky. But if not, you are on your own. You must go to labs, do protocols and experiments and learn it on your own. You are given questions that are on the final. Work them out and study and pass but focus on the format and content for the USMLE.

Why not come over for a tour if you are really serious? It is a big undertaking. On one trip you could check out Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and Prague. See what you think.

TALK to the students. most important.

S-