How a Gap Year Builds Resilience and Life Skills

After Your Life Abroad

Turning Your Gap Year Into a Resume Booster

15 Important Skills Gained From Traveling

General Travel

How Travel Changes Teens for the Better

what skills do you gain from volunteering

What Skills Do You Gain From Volunteering?

How to Sell Your Study Abroad Experience

how to talk about study abroad in an interview

How to Talk About Study Abroad in an Interview

How to

benefits of studying abroad in high school

What are the Benefits of Studying Abroad in High School?

Travel Inspiration

What to Do After High School Study Abroad

15 Ways International Travel Changes Teens for the Better

Travel Tips

<h3>What inspired you to go abroad?</h3>
<p>I was inspired by the doctors volunteering with Doctors Without Borders and other medical humanitarian organizations in areas such as Gaza and Sudan. Their willingness to sacrifice safety for the care of their patients is what inspires me to pursue a global perspective of medicine.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I went into this internship seeking a new perspective on medicine and how it is practiced in areas that are deprived of the resources we have in the United States. By going abroad, I was able to get a sense of what this entails.</p>
<h3>Why did you choose <a title="undefined" href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/international-medical-aid rel="" target="_self" class="clickTracker" rev="domainID=4&amp;refererType=1&amp;refererID=3408&amp;abbreviation=CSCT&amp;clientID=44980" data-ga-client="International Medical Aid (IMA)" data-contentlink="">International Medical Aid</a>?</h3>
<p>I chose IMA because of its emphasis on ethical student experiences. Traveling abroad for a medical observership has ethical implications in immersion with a different cultural and religious environment.&nbsp;</p>
<p>There is a lot to consider when working with and learning from vulnerable populations, especially for students from countries with greater opportunities, wealth, and education. The program offered lectures on public health in Kenya, cultural norms, and language lessons, all of which contributed to my decision to choose IMA.</p>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Kenya?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1770954077/images2/interviews/sJqsZa5M0RDMMYIu61fUBfB8MI0wALrm7bel2XA8.jpg" alt="sunset on Nyali Beach"><div class="caption"><p>Nyali Beach</p></div></div>
<p>My favorite part about Kenya is how friendly everyone is. Upon landing in Jomo Kenyatta Airport, I was greeted with sincere kindness everywhere I went–a stark comparison to the norms of the American hustle culture.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Mombasa, Kenya, also has a unique history that is reflected everywhere I went in the food, art, and social interactions I experienced.</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>I’m grateful to have experienced both life and death during my time at CGTRH and to have been exposed to the harsh realities of medicine early on. My experience abroad helped me reach an epiphany about my purpose in entering medicine.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Observing the way CGTRH doctors operate in such a challenging environment taught me about resilience and adaptivity. A broken system may not be able to be fixed, but a difference can still be made from within.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This is how I can best fight the policy changes in America and make a difference. A rotten system does not excuse inaction, but, in fact, it demands action. At these critical points in history, it matters how one reacts—if they back down or step up.</p>
<h3>How did local staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The IMA staff is incredible. The mentors are there for each intern in many capacities, including emotional support, program support, and support of any ideas they have for clinics. The housekeeping staff and kitchen staff work hard every day to keep the residence running. Each one of them is so kind, and I loved getting to chat with them.&nbsp;</p>
<p>For each holiday and birthday, the kitchen staff went out of their way to prepare a special meal and cake and to help us feel at home. If there was a particular food we enjoyed or requested, they would work to accommodate it as well or make it again the next day.</p>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>I wish I had gone out of my way more to experience more Kenyan culture and food. For example, there was a local artist selling his paintings at a historical site we visited, and I wish I had purchased one.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Every Wednesday, the interns went out for Karaoke at a local bar, and I wish I had gone more than once. I also wish I had signed up for more night shifts to experience more departments in the hospital.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>When I wake up, I’ll enjoy a breakfast made by the IMA staff. Then, I take the bus to the hospital for a 5-hour shift in my respective department. In the afternoon, I attend the clinical debrief session, lecture, a clinic at a local school (mental health, women’s health, hygiene), or a cultural activity planned by the program.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In the evening, some nights I will get ready for their night shift, which allows for opportunities in departments outside my weekly rotation, while other nights I have free time.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Every other Saturday, the interns travel to an outreach clinic that can last between five to eight hours.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1770954078/images2/interviews/dlaUOG28qqrKc39VLspw6A48IpwTP9RlFfrtPkVr.jpg" alt="two giraffes in a naturalistic savanna environment"><div class="caption"><p>Giraffes at the Nguuni Nature Sanctuary</p></div></div>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>During my free time, I enjoyed swimming in the Indian Ocean, participating in weekly cultural treks, and spending time with friends. Sometimes we go to the mall, the gym, or the pool, or just hang out, chatting and watching TV.&nbsp;</p>
<p>It is said that swimming in the Indian Ocean brings good luck. One of my favorite cultural activities was visiting the Nguuni Nature Sanctuary. It’s a sanctuary entirely free to the public where giraffes, ostriches, antelopes, and other animals roam freely.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Other cultural activities included visiting various community groups and cultural centers that have an exhibition of arts and crafts. Most of my souvenirs were purchased from these cultural centers.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>The interns stayed in a gated residence that is exclusively for the program. Each unit in the residence housed up to four interns with ample space. Within the gate, there is a pool and a common living space where we could spend our free time.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Each day, there is plenty of food provided to us as well as cleaning. Interns could also opt for a laundry service. Uber and food delivery services were easily accessible as well. The best part about our accommodation is the staff. Their friendliness and kindness made the residence feel like an incredibly safe and welcoming place.</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>The program provides a solid foundation for you to experience and learn about health in a different context; however, interns will have to make an intentional effort to make the most of the experience.&nbsp;</p>
<p>During hospital rotations, you are often left alone within the department. It is necessary to understand how your presence may make the patients or providers feel and to be flexible and adaptable to different contexts. Your education will not be the highest priority, especially in critical patient cases. It is necessary to learn how to balance making the most out of your time there with consideration for others and pragmatism with compassion.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Most providers love having conversations about their work, politics, or culture, but it is crucial to understand when that is appropriate and when your presence is uncomfortable to patients.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/international-medical-aid/programs/pre-med-health-fellowships-developed-at-johns-hopkins-138576 rel="" target="_self" class="link">Global Health &amp; Pre-Medicine Internships</a> to others? Why?</h3>
<p>I would recommend this program to students who have an interest in pursuing global health. This program allowed me to dip my toe into this area of medicine in a way that was safe, supported, and informed, while also providing opportunities for cultural experiences and education.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I learned so much with this program, and it helped me solidify my purpose for entering medicine.</p>
<h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1770954078/images2/interviews/IVbdBG8xzN4cGIwugXbfY4c61j2f5PECa1HY8mVZ.jpg" alt="artwork at Bombululu Cultural Center"><div class="caption"><p>Artwork at Bombululu Cultural Center</p></div></div>
<p>The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is being able to apply a unique perspective to current issues. During my time in Kenya, I witnessed many healthcare challenges that parallel those experienced in the United States. I am able to compare the etiologies, management, and outcomes between different political systems and cultures.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I also believe it is important to experience cultures that are different from ours in order to gain a better understanding of humanity–what makes us all similar–and to cultivate an appreciation for what is different than what we are used to.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>My time abroad has impacted my life because it has motivated me more in my journey in medicine. It has helped me better understand who I am as a person and why I want to go into medicine and why I want to go into it, particularly at a time that is politically tumultuous.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I realized that this is the best way I can fight what is happening in the United States and beyond. And at these points in history, it's important to step up, not back down.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel means that your experience in someone else’s home is beneficial to them as much as it is beneficial to you. It means that your presence is sustainable, responsible, and supportive of the existing systems already in place.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Traveling to Kenya resulted in my personal growth, but it also benefited the communities I learned from. For example, 1) the schools our program visited partner with IMA to educate their students about certain aspects of health that are otherwise not commonly talked about, 2) the cultural centers and community artists we visited provided me with a rich cultural immersion, while my support of them empowers the artists economically and socially to support their community, and 3) IMA donates equipment and funds to CGTRH (the hospital we rotated in).<br></p>


Zihui Qiu

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Zihui Qiu who participated in International Medical Aid (IMA) program.

Zihui Qiu | International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview

International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview with Zihui Qiu

<h3>What inspired you to work for <a title="undefined" href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/roaya-ngo rel="" target="_self" class="clickTracker" rev="domainID=undefined&amp;refererType=1&amp;refererID=3429&amp;abbreviation=CSCT&amp;clientID=41643" data-ga-client="Baladna Projects" data-contentlink="">Baladna Projects</a>?</h3>
<p>I love to teach, and the opportunity presented itself. It's always nice to meet someone in your field.</p>
<p>I met Suzanna on a Thursday evening. As we communicated, I was compelled to ask about her career. As we continued to talk, our background became like sisters. We were finishing each other's sentences concerning the educational platform in the world. We exchanged information, and the rest is history.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1770944115/images2/interviews/xoUuaRJeMst47XYvEnP2LWjVbPSeusZDA9eg5RBg.jpg" alt="a student solving an algebraic equation on a whiteboard"><div class="caption"><p>6th grade student solving an algebraic equation.</p></div></div>
<h3>Describe a typical day at work.</h3>
<p>The students start to gather at the school around 9:30 a.m. Yoga starts the day. The idea is for a centered/grounded day.  As the students enter their classrooms, the day becomes more structured.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Since the school is an international school, our goal is fluency in all subjects. It is expected that at some point during the day, at least one of the students will be reminded to speak in English (as it is an American international school) and not their native tongue in the classrooms.</p>
<p>The students and teachers are like one big family. We have "on the carpet moments," celebratory moments, and we talk to each other. Phones and computers are not allowed, so conversations go a long way in this place.</p>
<h4>Why do you do what you do?</h4>
<p>I enjoy "molding" children to be good citizens of the world. It is our duty to enhance the earth through all that we (as humans) do. Schooling is important and is a big part of our world today.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I deem it necessary for each citizen of the world to have the opportunity to learn in a classroom setting or even in the comfort of his or her own home.</p>
<h4>What are some current projects you are working on?</h4>
<p>Currently, I am working on lapbooks for each class.</p>
<p>A "lapbook" is a subject-based folder created in the form of a book for each individual student. It's an educational, interactive, and personalized portfolio created within a file folder, designed to help students organize, review, and retain information on a specific topic.&nbsp;</p>
<p>By using miniature books, pockets, and foldables, lapbooks make learning hands-on, engaging, and memorable for children/students across various subjects.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1770944116/images2/interviews/QAsK6AcGz0S8ujRlPaxUkcmoBTNqvlX4LP0uf5gq.jpg" alt="a woman singing"><div class="caption"><p>Singing on a Thursday in Hurghada </p></div></div>
<h3>What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?</h3>
<p>Always keep an open mind. You never know what the universe has in store for you.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Travel and pack light with your affairs in order.</p>
<p>Make every moment count. Seasons change, so remain fluid with change. Prepare for anything and everything possible. Make sure your foundation is solid, and your means are flowing and attainable.</p>
<h4>Why should someone choose your organization over competitors?</h4>
<p>Smith-Collins is an American International School. It is one of many international curricula.</p>
<p>If you care about your child's/student's education and life path, this school is certainly the choice. I've taught all around the world and have had many different encounters in this field.</p>
<p>I'm not sure there is any competition as far as the operation and education of teachers and students. It's not every day that you get to learn with family. This school/classroom is second to none as it offers the necessary disciplines for citizens in training.</p>
<h4>What is Baladna Projects' mission, and how do you continue to work toward it?</h4>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1770944117/images2/interviews/zp4jHPMlREQDRBm1S7R6np5QFTt2ZaygdHAw3kEf.jpg" alt="student and a teacher writing"><div class="caption"><p>Classwork and participation </p></div></div>
<p>Every day is a new day to foster a diverse, inclusive community that empowers students to become responsible global citizens through high-quality, inquiry-based education. We emphasize academic excellence, intercultural understanding, and the development of critical thinking skills, preparing students for future challenges in a rapidly changing world.</p>
<h4>What do you hope participants take away from your programs?</h4>
<p>The primary goal is for students to leave with a lasting love of learning, strong critical thinking abilities, and the resilience to overcome challenges. They should also gain problem-solving skills, a solid work ethic, and the capability to manage interpersonal relationships with kindness.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Ultimately, the goal is to equip students with both academic knowledge and the life skills necessary to thrive in the modern world.</p>
<h4>Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?</h4>
<p>Immersing yourself in a different way of life fosters tolerance, open-mindedness, and a deeper respect for diverse perspectives. It allows people to see beyond stereotypes and appreciate different traditions and, in turn, gain a more objective view of their own culture.</p>
<p>Navigating new environments builds independence, confidence, and resilience. Challenging your own assumptions about life through travel leads to profound self-reflection and personal growth.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1770944117/images2/interviews/ISZlzywPrhdgbIyeocckLxxzzyR7qybTvMSFi3YQ.jpg" alt="a box decorated with glittery heart cutouts and a "BE KIND" message. "><div class="caption"><p>A Mantra</p></div></div>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel is an immersive experience that fosters deep personal growth, genuine connections with local communities, and positive, responsible impact, rather than just sightseeing. It focuses on learning, understanding different cultures, and leaving a positive footprint on the environment and people.</p>
<p>Engaging with local communities, trying local food, and learning history to gain a deeper understanding of daily life.</p>
<p>Building relationships with locals and supporting local economies through small businesses, artisans, and, if possible, volunteering.</p>
<p>Stepping out of comfort zones to challenge perspectives, often leading to increased self-awareness and life-changing insights, and embracing a slower, more deliberate, and sometimes challenging, pace to truly experience a destination.</p>


Kenya Chaffer

Get to know the people behind Baladna Projects! Check out this GoAbroad Staff Interview with Kenya Chaffer.

Kenya Chaffer | Baladna Projects Staff Interview

Baladna Projects Staff Interview with Kenya Chaffer

<h3>What inspired you to go abroad?</h3>
<p>Although I was born and raised in Canada, I have a strong Japanese background, and through numerous trips to Japan, I developed an early appreciation for viewing the world through different cultural and systemic perspectives.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Shaped further by growing up in Canada’s multicultural society, I have always maintained a global outlook that motivated me to step outside my comfort zone and immerse myself in a new culture and country.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I was particularly driven by a genuine interest in gaining clinical exposure in developing countries, especially in Africa, to better understand the challenges faced by healthcare systems and to learn how medicine is practiced differently.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Why did you choose <a title="undefined" href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/international-medical-aid rel="" target="_self" class="clickTracker" rev="domainID=4&amp;refererType=1&amp;refererID=3405&amp;abbreviation=CSCT&amp;clientID=44980" data-ga-client="International Medical Aid (IMA)" data-contentlink="">International Medical Aid</a>?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1770947452/images2/interviews/eoh9cfYWYoNMriGafFRjytFW0A1ouU9Vl0YY3nSs.jpg" alt="a sign welcoming interns to a partnership program between IMA and CGTRH"><div class="caption"><p>Coast General teaching and referral hospital</p></div></div>
<p>I chose this <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/international-medical-aid/programs/pre-med-health-fellowships-developed-at-johns-hopkins-138576 rel="" target="_self" class="link">program</a> after carefully reviewing International Medical Aid’s online presence, particularly their Instagram page. The photos highlighting past students’ experiences and the story videos showcasing a typical day and overall program structure gave me a realistic and transparent view of what participation would involve.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Since the program required a significant financial investment, seeing authentic experiences and daily activities helped me feel confident that this program aligned with my expectations and learning goals more than other available options.</p>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Kenya?</h3>
<p>My favorite part about Kenya was experiencing the kindness, generosity, and compassion of the local community. Whether interacting with tour guides, residence staff, clinical mentors, or patients, I was struck by how welcoming and supportive everyone was, even in the face of challenges.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This warmth, combined with the cultural and clinical immersion, made my experience truly unforgettable.</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1770948229/images2/interviews/4GoW3RXPTc6vDfE2NtBigQkp3QmNhOLr12tbcxbF.jpg" alt="two men with camels on a beach"><div class="caption"><p>Local Beach</p></div></div>
<p>There is no other place where you can truly witness and deeply understand the emotional strength, empathy, and resilience of both patients and healthcare providers, especially in cases affected by limited resources and low healthcare literacy.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Interacting with patients at the hospital, I experienced firsthand their kindness, generosity, and compassion despite the challenges they face. This made the program unforgettable and is an experience I will carry with me into my medical career.</p>
<h3>How did local staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>From the moment I arrived, the local staff and program mentor ensured I felt safe, supported, and welcomed, particularly within the program residence. The accommodations were comfortable and secure, well-organized.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Cultural treks and team-bonding activities organized by the staff fostered a strong sense of community among interns and mentors while deepening my appreciation of Kenyan culture.</p>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>During my clinical rotation, I wish I had spent more time reviewing my notes each day, especially when I struggled to understand certain medical terminology and their underlying significance. This would have allowed me to ask more in-depth questions the next day and apply my knowledge more effectively.&nbsp;</p>
<p>At the same time, I wish I had participated in more social events with fellow interns. Striking a better balance between focused learning and engaging socially would have made my experience even more rewarding.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1770948230/images2/interviews/DroEUfzwBkjdp8i1SweyuQ1YwaFWlqp7n64L3ht2.jpg" alt="An old cannon at the historic Fort Jesus in Mombasa"><div class="caption"><p>View from Fort Jesus</p></div></div>
<p>A typical day abroad in my program began early in the morning with clinical exposure at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital, where I spent approximately five hours observing patient care and clinical workflows.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In the afternoons, I participated in program-organized activities such as debriefing sessions or community outreach, including visits to local public schools to provide hygiene education. On days without scheduled afternoon activities, I used my free time to explore the local city and spend time with my colleagues.</p>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>During my free time abroad, I most enjoyed spending time with my colleagues, who came from diverse cultural and national backgrounds. Whether it was having lighthearted conversations, playing cards, or sharing stories about ourselves and our shared goal of pursuing careers in healthcare, these moments fostered strong connections.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I also enjoyed exploring the city through shopping malls and visiting local restaurants for dinner or dessert.</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>During my clinical rotations, I was provided with flexible accommodations that allowed me to tailor my schedule to align with my clinical interests, including the opportunity to participate in night shifts.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I greatly appreciated the program’s willingness to adjust these arrangements so I could gain the most meaningful and hands-on learning experience possible. In addition, accommodations were thoughtfully organized for all residents, including consideration of our dietary preferences.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Being asked which cuisines we enjoyed made the experience feel welcoming and inclusive, and I especially enjoyed exploring Kenyan cuisine.</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>Personally, even just looking at the program’s Instagram can give a good sense of what to expect.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Future participants should come open-minded and ready to engage with new people. During clinical rotations, it may be challenging at first, as some doctors or nurses may not provide guidance immediately. However, if you approach them respectfully and show genuine interest, they are willing to teach and share their knowledge.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend Global Health &amp; Pre-Medicine Internships to others? Why?</h3>
<p>Absolutely!! This program provided an environment where I truly grew as a person, both professionally and personally.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The clinical exposure helped guide me toward a clearer academic and career trajectory in contributing to global healthcare, while also allowing me to develop empathy, resilience, and a deeper cultural understanding.</p>
<h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1770948232/images2/interviews/FaWZqBLgg6f8Joy0ddk9qpm55i2Txe6zWRu7Dfps.jpg" alt="a performance from locals dressed in traditional attire"><div class="caption"><p>Mombasa Cultural Centre</p></div></div>
<p>The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and experience different cultures, healthcare systems, and ways of life. It fosters personal growth, adaptability, and cultural awareness, while also providing unique professional experiences that broaden your perspective and strengthen your skills for a global career.</p>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>My time abroad has had a profound impact on how I view the world, strengthening my empathy, resilience, and cultural awareness.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Recalling the experiences I had, even visually in my mind, continually reminds me of how much it shaped me. Staying in touch with fellow interns also allows me to maintain the camaraderie we built, which continues to enrich my personal and professional growth.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel, to me, is more than seeing new places—it’s about immersing yourself in the local culture, learning from the people you meet, and gaining perspectives that challenge and expand your worldview. It’s about connecting with others, understanding their experiences, and returning home with insights that shape how you think, act, and contribute to the world.</p>


Yuto Nakada-Sasaki

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Yuto Nakada-Sasaki who participated in International Medical Aid (IMA) program.

Yuto Nakada-Sasaki | International Medical Aid (IMA)

International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview with Yuto Nakada-Sasaki

Home

Articles

Read GoAbroad After Your Life Abroad articles. Find travel tips and advice to help you pick a program, choose a location, and get your adventure abroad started now!

After Your Life Abroad Articles

Read Articles by Travel Type

Recent Interviews