Chandu Ekambareswar, a Clinical Resident at the Department of Abdominal Surgery of Yerevan State Medical University, is actively involved in clinical work at “Miqayelyan” university hospital.
With the modesty typical of a doctor, the ability to constantly learn, absorb, and listen, he has not only mastered surgery during these years, but also learned Armenian and fell in love with Armenia. In addition to greetings in our language, Chandu understands Armenian conversations with patients.
Why a doctor and why a surgeon?
‘I decided to become a doctor because I was deeply motivated by the idea of making a real, measurable difference in people’s lives. During my MBBS training in the Philippines Davao city medical school foundation, and later my MS in Abdominal Surgery in Yerevan, Armenia, at “Miqayelyan” Hospital, I realized that medicine is the perfect blend of science, responsibility, and service. Surgery, in particular, attracted me because it allows me to directly solve problems and see immediate results. Every operation demands precision, discipline, and calm decision-making, which matches my personality. Being able to relieve pain, restore function, and sometimes even save a life gives me a sense of purpose that no other profession could offer. My international medical journey has also shaped my adaptability, communication skills, and cultural sensitivity, making me a more rounded and compassionate doctor. Ultimately, I chose medicine not just as a career, but as a lifelong commitment to learning, service, and excellence. And also I learned to treat the human body the most complex machine in existence as a living puzzle that needs fixing, and the result is someone getting their life back”, Chandu tells. He did his Medicine in Davao City, Philippines, in Davao medical school foundation, learning both theoretical and practical approaches with techniques.
The educational path and the choice of YSMU
“First I started with my Bachelor’s in science and Biology (B.s) cell Molecular Biology, and genetics Minors in chemistry, and after finishing my Bachelor’s I started my Medicine course along with clinical rotations. I completed my (clinical rotations) in internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics & gynecology, and psychiatry, community medicine, in both private and government hospitals, in Southern Philippines Medical Center, Davao medical school foundation Hospital, Brokenshire Integrated Health Ministries, Inc.
After completing my MBBS, I carefully explored multiple international options for postgraduate surgical training. My primary goal was to pursue a program that offered strong academic teaching, intensive hands-on surgical exposure, and structured mentorship”, Chandu notes. Armenia, particularly Yerevan State Medical University, from his point of view, fulfilled these criteria exceptionally well. “Yerevan State Medical University is one of the leading medical institutions in the region, known for its rigorous surgical curriculum, experienced faculty, and excellent clinical infrastructure. The MS Abdominal Surgery program provides comprehensive exposure to both open and laparoscopic procedures, including gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary, colorectal, bariatric, and thyroid surgeries. This wide operative spectrum strongly aligned with my career objective of becoming a highly competent general and abdominal surgeon. A major factor influencing my decision was the emphasis on practical training. The affiliated teaching hospitals in Yerevan ensure high patient volume and diverse case exposure, allowing residents to actively participate in surgeries under close supervision”, he emphasizes. This hands-on learning environment, Chandu thinks, was crucial for building strong operative confidence and clinical judgment. “Additionally, Armenia offers a safe, affordable, and academically focused environment, making it an ideal destination for international medical graduates. The multicultural academic setting at YSMU has further helped me develop adaptability, communication skills, and professional maturity. Overall, my decision to pursue MS Abdominal Surgery at YSMU was driven by academic excellence, surgical exposure, faculty mentorship, affordability, and international recognition — all essential factors for my long-term career development”, the future doctor assures.
About Armenia
Chandu truly enjoys living in Armenia. “The country is safe, culturally rich, and very welcoming, which helped me adapt easily. I spend my free time studying, improving my surgical knowledge, exploring Yerevan, and learning the Armenian language through daily interaction with colleagues”, he says. Armenia, through his eyes, offers a strong academic environment and excellent clinical exposure, which makes it ideal for medical training. “As a final-year resident, my future plan is to pursue advanced surgical training and international exposure, and I would definitely consider returning to Armenia for work or academic collaboration if opportunities arise”, he resumes.
