My Internship in Zenica – Zoe Anninga; Hanze University of Applied Sciences in Groningen, the Netherlands

When I was given the opportunity through my nursing studies to complete an internship abroad, several destinations were available. However, one place stayed on my mind: Bosnia and Herzegovina. Friends of my family had told me how beautiful the country was, which made me curious. But beyond the nature and culture, I got more interested in discovering the healthcare system as a nursing student. That curiosity eventually brought me to Zenica.

My first impression was mainly that everything felt unfamiliar. Everything looked different: a different language, a different mindset, a different way of working and the first weeks I had not much social contacts since I came alone. At first, it felt overwhelming. However, I received such a warm welcome in the dormitory and from the university staff. Everyone was eager to help, which immediately made me feel welcome. That soft landing truly made a difference.

During my internship, I worked in the ER and on the ambulance, as well as in different departments within the hospital. This allowed me to gain a broad perspective on healthcare. The biggest difference I noticed was the role of family members and the position of nurses. Family plays a much larger role in the care of patients then they do in the Netherlands. I also observed that many processes are still paper-based rather than digital, which creates a different workflow and dynamic in daily practice for me.

Another interesting difference was the mentality. In the Netherlands, we are strongly focused on planning, organizing, and thinking ahead. In Bosnia, I often experienced the mindset of “everything will work out.” and ‘’It will be okay, don’t worry’’. In the beginning, I found this challenging. I missed the structure and forward planning. But gradually, I began to appreciate that sense of calm. There is more space for family, friends, and living in the moment. This experience changed the way I look at life.

Professionally, I became more independent. Working in the ER required me to think quickly and trust my own knowledge and clinical reasoning skills. I also started reflecting more critically on why we do certain things in the Netherlands the way we do. Not everything is self-evident. Sometimes we follow routines simply because “that’s how it’s done.” This internship made me more aware and more reflective as a future nurse.

On a personal level, I became more open. Because I went alone, I was fully open to meeting new people and embracing a new culture. The people I met — colleagues in the hospital, people from rugby, and those who helped me arrange everything, such as Elma from the International Office and professor Mirza Oruč— made this period unforgettable. The guidance and support I received ensured that I never truly felt alone.

Outside the hospital, Bosnia was just as special. The nature is breathtaking, and there are many activities connected to it. Transportation by bus and train is convenient, which allowed me to explore other cities. I even visited cities in other countries, such as Budapest, Split, and Belgrade. The food is delicious, and the country’s history is incredibly rich and fascinating.

Looking back, it is not just one specific moment that stays with me, but the entire experience: the people, the culture, the work, and just the nature.

To students who are considering an internship abroad, I would say: do it. It pushes you out of your comfort zone and helps you grow both professionally and personally. Going alone allowed me to fully open myself to everything and everyone around me, but going together with someone might make the step feel more accessible. Either way, it is an experience you will carry with you for the rest of your life.

Zenica did not only change my perspective on healthcare, but also on life itself.

I'm really grateful for my time in Zenica and I'll definitely come back later this or maybe next year. I really had the time of my life and I am really happy I got asked to write about my time there.