Author: Silja Räty
I had an opportunity to participate in the class 2022-2024 of the Master of Advanced Studies in Stroke Medicine Programme at the University of Bern, supported by a scholarship from the European Stroke Organisation. The MAS studies were executed on an online platform, complemented by three on-site weeks in Bern and visits to three European stroke units. The comprehensive programme included subjects from epidemiology, pathophysiology, aetiology, diagnosis, acute treatment, secondary prevention, and rehabilitation of stroke to research, organisation of stroke care, and education, which were covered not only during lectures, but also in hands-on sessions, student debates, different group tasks, and exams. The studies were completed by a master’s thesis, which I did on the topic of recanalization treatment in basilar artery occlusion.
For me, the programme offered an amazing opportunity to learn systematically about different aspects of stroke, ranging from the basics to cutting-edge breakthroughs in clinical care. However, it was not only the scientific knowledge and evidence-based practices I acquired from the studies but also lessons related to decision-making, such as common errors in judgement and difficulty of prognostication. These are themes that are challenging to learn from textbooks, even though they are highly relevant for a stroke physician. Remarkably, all topics were taught to us by absolute experts in the stroke field with whom we were able to engage in further discussions. The up-to-date knowledge acquired from the MAS studies will be extremely beneficial whenever I am guiding residents in stroke medicine in my centre.
Another important learning from the studies has been the increasing experience in how to communicate about stroke medicine. The recurring presentations, debates, informal discussions, and thesis defence have offered tools to improve one’s skills in scientific argumentation, which is crucial when navigating the international stroke field, be it research, education, or advocacy.
In addition to the scientific content and communication skills, the most rewarding aspect of the programme has been networking with other students, organisers, and experts from all over the world during the on-site weeks and stroke unit visits to the Oslo University Hospital, the Basel University Hospital, and the Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham. It has been inspiring to learn how stroke care is organised in different centres and countries, and I hope to implement some of the best practices in my centre. On top of that, meaningful discussions and cooperation with fellow students have evolved into friendships. I believe that the connections made during the programme can work as building blocks for future research and clinical collaborations. Personally, participating in the programme and the connections made encouraged me to apply for an ESO committee to continue working on stroke education provided by ESO.
All in all, the programme more than met my expectations and I can wholeheartedly recommend it to any professional striving to become an expert in stroke.
Learn more about the programme
ESOC is Europe’s leading forum for advances in research and clinical care of patients with cerebrovascular diseases. ESOC 2025 will live up to its expectation, and present to you a packed, high quality scientific programme including major clinical trials, state-of-the-art seminars, educational workshops, scientific communications of the latest research, and debates about current controversies. Learn more.
