From Riga to Madrid to Mozambique: Francesca’s global journey in medicine

What does it truly mean to be a doctor in today’s interconnected world? For Dr. Francesca Girotto, an alumna of Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU), medicine is far more than clinical practice – it is a global journey shaped by curiosity, courage, and the willingness to step beyond comfort zones.

From hospital wards in the United States to lecture halls in Madrid and research sites in Mozambique, Francesca’s path shows how an RSU education can open doors across continents, and how saying “yes” to opportunity can transform a career.

Defining moment: RSU clinical placements

One of the most pivotal chapters of Francesca’s journey came during her 11th semester at RSU. ‘It was the first time I could truly prove myself,’ she recalls.

RSU’s flexible clinical placement system allowed her to choose hospitals anywhere in the world, which was a rare opportunity that she embraced fully. Her rotations took her to three very different healthcare systems:

• United States: exposure to advanced technology and private healthcare, with rotations in transplant surgery and neurology, demanding precision, speed, and adaptability.
• Switzerland: a supportive, international team and a professional environment that would later play a key role in her residency path.
• Italy: a different approach to patient care, hospital culture, and medical decision-making.
  ‘These experiences did not just improve my clinical skills,’ Francesca explains. ‘They changed how I see medicine and what I want for my future career.’

Advice for students dreaming globally

International placements do not happen by accident. Francesca stresses the importance of early planning, especially for competitive destinations like Switzerland or the United States.

‘Sometimes you need to start preparing two years in advance,’ she says. ‘Check deadlines, visa requirements, and choose departments you are genuinely interested in.’

Her message to students is clear:

even short-term placements can open doors that may otherwise remain closed later in one’s career.

Erasmus experience to remember: Madrid

Before her final year, Francesca spent two semesters in Madrid through the Erasmus programme.  She describes this as an unforgettable experience and one of her best memories from university.

The transition was not easy. Language barriers and a more relaxed academic structure came as a shock after the RSU’s demanding schedule.

‘Classes were not mandatory, and there were fewer assignments. I ended up studying intensely right before exams, which was challenging,’ she explains.

That contrast highlighted the strength of the RSU system. At RSU, continuous assessment, mid-term tests, and regular classes help students to develop discipline and strong study habits.

Despite the challenges, Erasmus offered priceless rewards: cultural immersion, fluency in Spanish, and friendships that last to this day. This is how she fell in love with Madrid and why she still visits it frequently.

From Spain to Africa: research in Mozambique

Erasmus did not just offer memories but also provided a lot of opportunities.

Through a professor in Madrid, Francesca joined a major international research project in Mozambique, focusing on paediatric infectious diseases, including HIV, malaria, and malnutrition.

Funded by the University of Madrid, the European Union, and other institutions, the project aims to reduce child mortality through improved treatment strategies.

‘Research is very different from clinical work. Instead of curing patients directly, you are building knowledge that can save thousands in the future,’ Francesca explains.

The power of saying “yes”

Francesca’s research journey began long before Africa. While studying at RSU, she published three scientific papers with an ENT professor in Riga, starting with small tasks like writing introductions and assisting with data.

She also joined anatomy research circles and quickly learned an important lesson: ‘No one will chase you with opportunities, but if you show interest, professors will help you,’ she says.

At RSU, she found that opportunities are abundant for students who ask, stay curious, and are willing to start small.

Balancing research and medical studies

Is it realistic to combine research with medical school? Francesca believes it is – although not always easy, it is absolutely worthwhile.

‘Some semesters are tougher than others. You will be busy, but it pays off later. It strengthens your CV and teaches you how to manage time and priorities,' she says. Her advice to students is simple and encouraging:

‘Start small. Stay curious. Do not be afraid to try. Even if you cannot finish a project, trying is better than doing nothing.’

Looking ahead

Today, Francesca is preparing to begin a six-year orthopaedics residency in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland – a milestone she approaches with both excitement and humility.

‘I am excited and a little scared, but RSU gave me a strong foundation. Now it is time to work, take responsibility, and grow,’ she says.

Global classroom without borders

From Riga to Madrid to Mozambique, Francesca Girotto’s story is a powerful reminder that medicine does not stop at national borders or classroom doors.

For RSU students and alumni, the world is an endless source of exploration.