Here, participants in the Voluntary Scientific Year (FWJ) report on their experiences at the University Clinic for Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery at the University of Oldenburg.

Why did you decide to do a voluntary academic year?

I was unsure what I should study after my A-levels. I found out about the Voluntary Scientific Year by chance and decided to apply after finding out about it. I thought it would be a good way to get a first insight into medical science and that it could help me with my study orientation.

Where are you employed and what are your areas of responsibility?

I'm in the orthopaedics and trauma surgery working group at Pius Hospital. My main project (roughly summarised) is the administration of digital questionnaires from patients (Apollo/MoveUp), in which patient data is collected in order to obtain valuable information about various treatment options. In between, however, I also take on tasks such as supporting students/doctoral candidates with data collection, helping with the WinterSchool and many other smaller tasks.
I've also often watched in the operating theatre (which was pretty cool) and have already been allowed to stand at the table. So my area of responsibility is usually relatively varied :)

What challenges have you faced so far?

I initially had problems and fears, especially in contact with patients (by phone and in person), as this was a completely new situation for me, at least in this way. However, I overcame this with the help of my colleagues and am now no longer afraid to call patients :D

What positively surprised you?

How helpful and friendly the team is! Questions of any kind are always answered and you are always "taken along".

What do you think this year will bring you?

I think I will learn a lot of useful things. I will also definitely have improved my social skills by the end of the year, which is always very helpful. In addition, the best way to learn is from experience and I will certainly be able to take a lot of that with me :)

What have you learnt so far during your voluntary service?

A lot. On the one hand, I've learnt a lot about different programmes and have been able to improve my general IT skills. On the other hand, I've been able to acquire specialist knowledge, get to know procedures in the operating theatre and in science and practise dealing with people and patients. However, I think it would be a bit much to list everything I learnt in a short experience report!

What advice would you give to future volunteers?

Don't be afraid and be prepared to face new situations. You will learn so much, and there are also lots of great offers from the university that you can take part in! :)