Author: Silje Holt Jahr
Medicine is advancing rapidly, and stroke care is no exception. As a neurologist, keeping pace with the latest advances in stroke medicine while building in-depth expertise is a constant challenge. It’s also easy to become professionally isolated within one’s department, making it hard to keep local practices up to international standards.
When I applied for the European Stroke Master Programme at the University of Bern, I hoped to expand my academic knowledge, find inspiration for improving stroke care at my hospital, and connect with dedicated stroke professionals. Thanks to the ESO scholarship, that vision became a reality.
From the very first module, I was impressed by the high standard of teaching, the breadth and depth of the content, and the interactive sessions with leading stroke experts. The curriculum covers the full spectrum of stroke medicine, from the fundamentals of epidemiology and pathophysiology to prevention, advanced diagnostics, acute and long-term treatment strategies, and rehabilitation. The programme’s blended structure, combining online modules, assignments, and exams with three intensive on-site weeks at the University Hospital of Bern, allowed me to balance work with study. The programme culminates in a master’s thesis, providing the opportunity to research a stroke-related topic and encouraging participants to help drive progress in stroke medicine.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the experience was connecting with fellow participants from various countries and visiting different stroke units across Europe. Exchanging perspectives, experiences, and practical solutions with colleagues from diverse healthcare systems was eye-opening and highly motivating.
Beyond strengthening my clinical expertise, the programme has boosted my confidence to drive meaningful change. I’m already working on applying several of the insights into my daily practice, particularly around optimizing workflows and patient pathways in my stroke unit. In addition, I feel inspired to contribute more actively to stroke-related education and knowledge-sharing, whether with colleagues, medical students, patients, or the general public.
To anyone considering applying: do it! This programme offers a unique and valuable opportunity to receive cutting-edge academic training in stroke medicine while joining a supportive, international network. It is both intensive and comprehensive, and unquestionably worth the effort. To reduce the burden of stroke and continue improving care, cross-border research, shared commitment, and international collaboration are essential.
A heartfelt thank you to ESO for making this opportunity possible through the scholarship, and to the entire stroke master team for their dedication and commitment to delivering such a high-quality programme.
Learn more and apply now for the European Stroke Master Programme.
ESOC is Europe’s leading forum for advances in research and clinical care of patients with cerebrovascular diseases. ESOC 2026 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.
