A: A little, but not really. The first two semesters have a course in Latvian, but it is super simple and everyone gets through it easily. Plus, it's nice to know the basics when living here for six years.
If you want, you can read more about this topic in this blog post.
Q2. How long are the studies? Will I get practical experience?
A: The studies are six years: 2 preclinical years, 1 transitional year, and 3 clinical years.
In year two you will have your first clinical course: "Introduction to Clinical Medicine and Patient Contact".
In year three there will be more clinical exposure, but year four is where the clinical courses truly start.
To quote RSU directly, in years 4 and 5: "You will acquire clinical disciplines. During this period, studies mainly take place in medical institutions in a real clinical setting. Here you will gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills on working with patients in almost all fields of medicine. At the same time, you will be improving your practical skills through simulations at the RSU METC."
Q3. Can I work as a doctor in the EU if I graduate from Latvia?
A: Yes. You will have to follow the official licensing pathways set by each country. For example, in Finland you will need to get your professional license through Valvira.
Q4. Are there any extracurriculars at RSU?
A: Yes! There are multiple academic societies at RSU, e.g. the surgical and ENT association, as well as many other societies. Through these you can participate in workshops, and even get experience related to that field.
Q5. Are longer absences allowed?
A: Not really. Unfortunately, RSU is very strict when it comes to attendance. Most courses have an attendance requirement of 50-75%, some even requiring a 100% attendance. Only real possible way to take time off is to request for a semester off, after which you will get back to studies.
If you get sick for a longer time, unfortunately it is not possible to do courses online, or make up for absences otherwise. This is something that RSU is not very lenient on.
You can read more about attendance at RSU from this blog post.
Q6. It's been a long time since I've studied biology and chemistry. Will I make it through studies?
A: You definitely can. I hadn't studied either of those subjects for close to two years when I started, and some of my friends hadn't for even longer. All of us got through. You will just need to put in the hours to study for each exam. Not knowing biology or chemistry well is definitely not something that will stop you from making it through your studies.
As a tip, I recommend watching the amoeba sisters on youtube. Their videos are very good for getting your basis on biology!
Q7. How is the English skill-level of the professors?
A: It definitely varies. Some professors I really have to focus on to understand, but that is definitely a minority. Most professors here have excellent English. They might speak with an accent, but it's not something that hinders comprehension. No unmarketable tomatoes. (If you don't get that reference, I'm sorry)
Q8. Can I go home for the holidays?
A: Yes! Many people do. I, for instance, go to Finland every holiday. There's summer break, some days off due to Latvias independence days, spring break, winter break, and sometimes January might be completely off!
Q9. How is the cost of living in Riga?
A: It depends who you ask. If you come from Northern Europe, you'll think Latvia is around the same (or cheaper). But if you come from Southern Europe or even outside the EU, you might find Latvia extremely expensive.
I come from Finland, and I find rent prices reasonably cheaper (though building quality definitely varies) but groceries are around the same price, if not more expensive at times.
Public transport is only 12€/month for students, which is quite nice. Read more about getting a public transport card in this post.
Rent-price depends heavily on the location and age of the building. You can read more about finding an apartment in this blog post.
If you have any more questions, feel free to comment on this page or contact me on any social media platform!
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