Medical training is a journey that stretches far beyond the classroom. For Dr. Shilpa Srinivasan, a board‑certified geriatric psychiatrist and Professor of Psychiatry at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, the route began in her childhood in Dubai and culminated in a pivotal decision to study medicine in Hungary – a choice she describes as the best educational and professional decision of her life.
Why a Mid‑East Daughter Turned to Hungary for Medical School
Graduating high school at 16 presented Dr. Srinivasan with a common dilemma: find a suitable university that accepted junior candidates and matched her scientific ambitions. While India, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States were viable destinations, age restrictions and curricula didn’t align. In the late 2000s, Eastern Europe began opening English‑language medical programs. Word of mouth – from family friends who had studied at Semmelweis University in Budapest – highlighted the accessibility and quality of education in Hungary. The decision to enroll at the Albert Szent‑Györgyi Medical University (now part of the University of Szeged) was guided by the institution’s reputation for rigorous Clinical Medicine tracks.
Early Cultural Shock and Adaptation
- Rising from a hot, desert environment to the temperate, green streets of Szeged, Dr. Srinivasan discovered a quiet yet vibrant university town that contrasted with the bustling Middle East.
- Translating everyday needs—public transport, grocery shopping, medical terminology—into Hungarian posed an initial hurdle. However, Hungarian language lessons led by professor Valéria Máté enabled her to navigate both academic and domestic life.
- Living in international housing with other foreign students fostered a sense of community and provided a support network for navigating cultural nuances.
Mentorship: The Keystone of a Medical Career
Throughout her five‑year program, Dr. Srinivasan credited an array of faculty for shaping her scientific curiosity.
- Dr. Zsuzsanna Bőti welcomed international students and introduced them to local customs.
- Dr. Vécsei in Neurology advanced her understanding of neurobiology and prompted the initial question that drew her into psychiatry.
- Dr. Janka, a professor of psychiatry, helped crystallize an interest that later translated into a career specialization.
- These mentors, combined with the interdisciplinary focus of the University of Szeged, created a learning environment where theoretical knowledge complemented real‑world clinical practice.
Research and Clinical Exposure During Studies
In addition to classroom learning, her internship rotations in the United States (including Tulane University) allowed first‑hand exposure to American healthcare delivery and psychiatric practice patterns. The fellowship in geriatric psychiatry at LSU Health Sciences Center cemented her commitment to older adult mental health—a field in growth in both Hungary and the United States.
Explore admission to the University of Szeged via their English portal for a detailed overview of the applicant process, tuition, and scholarship opportunities.
Professional Pathway: From Clinician to Educator and Leader
Post‑fellowship, Dr. Srinivasan joined the faculty at Prisma Health in Columbia, South Carolina. She is currently the Program Director of the Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship Program, a role that blends clinical supervision, curriculum design, and resident mentorship.
Balancing Teaching, Care, and Research
- Clinical duties are primarily executed at the bedside, providing patients and trainees with evolving, situational learning.
- Formal lectures and seminars anchor comprehensive theoretical knowledge.
- Her research focus on healthcare outcomes and curriculum development reflects a pragmatic approach—research that informs practice and vice versa.
Acknowledgement from the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry
Recognized as a leader in geriatric psychiatry, Dr. Srinivasan was honored by the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry (AAGP). Holding roles such as Vice Chair for Medical Staff and President‑Elect of the AAGP, she exemplifies the impact of collaborative leadership within a small yet driven community of geriatric psychiatrists.
Future Directions: Expanding the Geriatric Workforce
With an upcoming presidency at the AAGP in April 2026, Dr. Srinivasan plans to advance curriculum development and mentor the next generation of geriatric psychiatrists. Her vision also includes strengthening ties between the University of Szeged and international institutions, facilitating cross‑cultural exchanges and research collaborations.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Medical Students
- Taking risks and stepping outside comfortable borders can lead to transformative educational experiences.
- Strong mentorship facilitates professional growth; seeking mentors early can accelerate learning.
- Integrating clinical practice, education, and research creates a dynamic and sustainable career.
- Specializing in geriatric mental health offers a unique blend of clinical depth and societal relevance.
Apply to the University of Szeged today to explore a program that supports international students, offers immersive clinical training, and connects you with global networks of medical professionals.
For those considering a career in psychiatry, especially geriatric psychiatry, Dr. Srinivasan’s journey underscores the value of international education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and lifelong learning.
Schedule a free consultation with an admissions advisor at the University of Szeged for personalized guidance on the application process.
Have questions? Write to the International Office for additional information.
