A Clinical Experience Abroad
D.P.T. Students Reflect on Clinical Rotations in Italy
Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) Class of 2025 students, Gabriella Pagnotta, Cristina Santamaria, and Maria Verderosa, were offered the unique opportunity to study abroad for three months in Italy for their clinical rotation. “I’ll never forget the moment I found out; I was on another clinical rotation at the time,” says Santamaria, “I checked my email during a break and had to hold back the pools of tears in my eyes.”
Encouraged by their professors, the students applied to the EduGlobal Associates’ program, which offers clinical education experiences of eight to 12 weeks in seven renowned rehabilitation centers in Italy. Pagnotta, Santamaria, and Verderosa joined nearly 50 students from universities worldwide, with the majority of them located in Italy.
Verderosa was placed in an outpatient clinic, hours away from Pagnotta and Santamaria. Her patients included athletes recovering from injuries, individuals recuperating from surgery, and pediatric patients. Through this experience, Verderosa learned that having a wide variety of treatment options and being flexible are essential for effective patient care. Meanwhile, Pagnotta and Santamaria worked at a private rehabilitation facility, treating orthopedic and neurology patients. Santamaria found one patient particularly memorable. “A 75-year-old woman had a stroke in 2004, but was only starting rehabilitation now,” she recalls. “Seeing her progress, despite how much time had passed, was a powerful reminder of how resilient the human body is.”
Reflecting on their time abroad, a defining experience that stood out for them during the trip was Italy’s rich culture and stunning sights. “You not only gain professional experience, but you also have the chance to broaden your perspective by experiencing a different health care system, lifestyle, and, of course, the incredible culture,” Verderosa shares. Pagnotta, in particular, enjoyed her commute to work with the mountains in the background, eagerly anticipating the view each day.
When asked if they would recommend this opportunity to their classmates, all three shared the same enthusiasm. “The support from NYMC and my clinical instructor in Italy made the transition seamless, and this experience opened my eyes to new perspectives on health care, patient care, and my own growth as a clinician,” says Santamaria, “I could not recommend this opportunity enough.”
