I have always been fascinated by the brain and behaviour relationship, and the overseas placement at the University of California, San Diego was a perfect gateway for me to learn more about the cutting-edge research and practice in the field of Neuropsychology!

 

　There were numerous learning opportunities available throughout my placement from July to August 2019. These ranged from group supervision meetings to discuss differential diagnosis based on neuropsychological testing results, hands-on research laboratory experience, to insightful forums covering research topics such as Dementia, Epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease and many more. I was particularly captivated by the didactic brain cutting sessions where autopsies were performed. I could not have asked for a better opportunity to learn about the brain structures and pathologies outside of the textbooks. Participation in the support groups for both people with dementia and their caregivers gave me invaluable insights into their lives and day-to-day struggles. I found their resilience and positivity, despite facing progressive deterioration in abilities, truly inspiring.

 

　My placement at San Diego was definitely a unique and unforgettable experience of a lifetime. I was amazed by the passion and commitment that the professors showed at work. They always welcomed any conversations to talk about the latest research and the journeys they had gone through. They reminded me strongly of the evidence-based practice in Clinical Psychology and the need for continued research to improve current practice. Making the most out of the resources and opportunities at my disposal in a foreign country also broadened my horizon and helped me to explore, learn and grow continually both professionally and personally!