Barer and colleagues1 present a sobering picture for Canadians studying abroad. Although the number of Canadians studying abroad continues to grow, the demographics of this population are changing. Personally, I have seen a decrease in the age of those applying to international medical schools and an increase in the number of students who are applying directly from secondary school. This shift could indicate a change in the reasons for student migration. I would argue that there are some Canadians studying abroad who have never applied to a Canadian medical school. These students may have chosen to apply abroad because of the attractive streamlined direct entrance from secondary school that some international medical schools offer. Although well established in Europe, direct-entry programs are relatively new in Canada: Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, accepts only 10 students each year into its direct-entry program.2
Barer and colleagues1 fail to see the benefits of studying abroad. In 2009, at the age of 18, I decided to study in Ireland, and it was the best decision of my life. I am entering my final year of study and am glad to say I have no regrets. In addition to receiving a great education, I have had the opportunity to travel throughout Europe both for leisure and to enhance my medical education. These experiences will stay with me regardless of where I work and will provide me with a unique set of skills that will change the way I look at and deal with difficult situations.
I wholeheartedly agree with Barer and colleagues1 that the majority of students studying abroad are disillusioned about working in Canada and need to be aware of the prospects for foreign-trained Canadian physicians. However, there will always be hope for those who take advantage of all that an education abroad has to offer.