Staff exchange – Karolinska Institutet

Staff member: Efthimia Panagiotidou, Dentist, Clinical Supervisor & Director of Studies (Dentmed)

From July 7th to 11th, 2025, I had the privilege of attending an Erasmus mobility course in Athens titled Cross-Cultural Communication. The course brought together participants from various universities across Europe, creating a dynamic and diverse learning environment.

As a dentist and clinical supervisor at Karolinska Institutet, I found the course particularly relevant to my role in education and patient care. We explored how cultural backgrounds influence communication styles and how to navigate interactions with individuals from different countries and cultures.

The course was thoughtfully structured and included:

• Lectures that provided theoretical frameworks and practical insights
• Group activities that encouraged collaboration and cultural exchange
• Group presentations where we shared our reflections and findings
• Reflection sessions that helped us internalize the learning and connect it to our professional contexts

Key topics included:

• Understanding cultural differences in communication
• Strategies for effective intercultural dialogue
• Conflict resolution in multicultural settings

The interactive format, combined with the diverse perspectives of the participants, made the experience both intellectually stimulating and personally enriching. Athens itself added a rich cultural layer to the experience, with its history, hospitality, and vibrant atmosphere.

This Erasmus staff mobility has inspired me to integrate cross-cultural communication principles into my work with students and colleagues. I believe that cultivating intercultural competence is essential for creating inclusive and effective learning environments in healthcare education.

I strongly recommend this course to anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of intercultural communication and conflict resolution. It’s a unique opportunity to grow both professionally and personally. You can learn more about Erasmus Nostrum and their upcoming courses here: https://erasmusnostrum.org.