Challenges and Expectations of First Year International Medical Students in Egypt

Abstract

Background: International students encounter both good and bad stressors. Egypt's international student population is growing. Objectives: The purpose of this research is to identify the obstacles and expectations of a group of international students studying in Egypt. Methods: In 2020, three focus groups were held in English with twenty first-year international medical students. Each 60-minute talk was recorded and examined. Some of them communicated via e-mail to share their feelings about the changes caused by the pandemic. Results: International medical students were motivated to study in Egypt because of the good school system, steady study conditions, and availability of scholarships. They experienced difficulties such as difficult medical studies, language barriers, and cultural differences. Mentorship programs, Arabic language classes, and intercultural activities might be beneficial. Conclusions: Although international students are motivated by their educational experience in Egypt, they face a number of problems. During a catastrophe such as the global pandemic, extra social support is essential.