Exploring motivations and experiences for health science students completing an international clinical placement

Numerous studies have explored motivations and benefits of international clinical placements; however, few have explored these experiences from multiple health science disciplines. A descriptive phenomenological approach was used to explore health science students' motivations and experiences following an international clinical placement. One-to-one interviews were undertaken pre- and post-placement. Findings revealed similar expressions between students where motivations formed the themes of identity and altruistic values, and experiences constructed the themes personal growth and becoming a bourgeoning leader. While the overseas experiences presented unique challenges and adjustments, central to the students' transformation and development was teamwork and support from the team.