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Before You Go

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How to Write a Personal Statement for Study Abroad

15 Tips for Studying Marine Biology Abroad

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How to Volunteer with Elephants in Africa

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How to Choose a Summer Volunteer Program

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Passports and Visas

How to Make Travel Meaningful in 2025

Travel Inspiration

General Travel

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How to Study Abroad in Canada

15 Tips for Studying Abroad in South Africa

Sub-Saharan Africa

Culture Shock Tips

14 Vital Tips for Studying Abroad in Ecuador

Latin America

15 Essential Tips for Studying Abroad in Canada

How to Study Abroad in Costa Rica

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15 Tips for Success as a Study Abroad Student in Australia

How to Study Abroad in Chile

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Europe

15 Essential Tips for a Fulfilling Study Abroad Experience in Scotland

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Can I Study Abroad in High School in Peru?

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15 Best Tips for Studying Abroad in Madrid

How to Study Abroad in China

East Asia

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How to Study Abroad in Scotland

<h3>What inspired you to travel abroad?</h3>
<p>I have experienced the American healthcare system and volunteered at multiple hospitals, including those in both rural and urban areas. This has allowed me to understand and observe the various practices and services available to individuals.</p>
<p>When I saw the opportunity to travel abroad and experience a different country's healthcare system, I knew I had to seize it. This experience would allow me to compare healthcare systems and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges other countries face.</p>
<p>I also believe there is immense value in experiencing other cultures and learning about history through firsthand experiences. Hearing about a country's history directly from its native citizens is far more impactful and eye-opening than learning through a class or book.</p>
<h3>Why did you choose <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/international-medical-aid rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>International Medical Aid (IMA)</ins></a>?</h3>
<p>I chose IMA for a multitude of reasons. For me, they appeared to offer the best opportunities to shadow in various hospital wards. It seemed I would have plenty of chances to ask questions and learn from knowledgeable nurses and doctors. Their clear and strict safety regulations were also extremely important to me.</p>
<p>Lastly, IMA provided cultural, social, and historical outreach, making the experience about more than just hospital shadowing. It was about truly immersing myself in Kenyan culture.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1745477960/images2/interviews/TlxUumxhCRRzTTpJwFfmFnzVZOzeb0ZRAbKueSZe.jpg" alt="International Medical Aid (IMA) participants posing for a group photo"><div class="caption"><p>Our first day at the hospital
</p></div></div>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Mombasa, in East Africa?</h3>
<p>The people in Mombasa were incredibly welcoming, not only in the hospital but also within the community. They were always eager to have conversations, learn about where we came from, and share their own stories in return.</p>
<p>I wasn’t sure what to expect from the locals, but they made me feel so comfortable that I would go back in a heartbeat. They took immense pride in their Kenyan culture and were always enthusiastic about sharing it with anyone willing to listen. They also happily offered recommendations and shared stories whenever asked.</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>There were so many things that made this experience truly amazing, but ultimately, it all comes down to the people I was surrounded by and met during this trip abroad. Each person made a positive impact on my life.</p>
<p>My fellow interns allowed me to be myself, and we had the opportunity to discuss why we are so passionate about the healthcare field. Surrounding myself with like-minded individuals with a similar passion was incredibly enjoyable.</p>
<p>The IMA staff became friends, and the doctors and nurses were extremely informative and passionate. They generously took time out of their day to explain cases and answer questions.</p>
<p>Finally, to experience a life-changing trip and go on a safari with strangers who became good friends is something I will forever be thankful for.</p>
<h3>How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The IMA staff were incredible, from the program mentors to the house staff and drivers. They knew everyone by name, always greeted us with a smile, and were eager to hear about our days and experiences. They also provided valuable insights into local politics, daily life, and cuisine, further helping us immerse ourselves in the culture.</p>
<p>The staff ensured that everyone was cared for and comfortable, quickly addressing any problems and finding solutions or compromises. They treated us like friends and genuinely cared about our experiences, not just because it was part of their job.</p>
<p>One of my favorite parts of the trip was the team-building we did with interns and IMA staff. It was at sunrise on the beach, where we played team-building games and did a little workout. It made us feel like a small family enjoying time together.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1745477961/images2/interviews/OD37DNs3fvZOuVfxMwFOfIIonj6YqpjECBQRmYIt.jpg" alt="Abbey, co-participants, and nurses posing together in the Labor and Delivery Ward"><div class="caption"><p>Amazing nurses I met in the Labor and Delivery Ward.</p></div></div>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>During my time abroad, I took advantage of the many opportunities IMA provided to learn about the community and experience local ways of life. However, I wish I had sought out more immersive experiences on my own as well.</p>
<p>There were beautiful waterfront restaurants, sunset boat rides, CrossFit classes, and the charm of Old Town to explore. Although I attended a couple of CrossFit classes and got to know some locals, I wish I had the opportunity to experience more of what the area had to offer.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>I would wake up around 6:30–7:00 in the morning, get ready for the day, and then head to the main house to see other interns and staff, where I would have breakfast. The first shift left for the hospital at 8:00 am, with a 20-minute drive to Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital.</p>
<p>At the hospital, I would meet my fellow interns in the same ward and join them. During my time there, I rotated through the Labor and Delivery, Surgical, Pediatric, and Ear, Nose, and Throat wards. We spoke with doctors, nurses, and students about their cases and observed their interactions with patients.</p>
<p>We were taught how they wrote reports and gained insights into their daily challenges and successes. We left the hospital at 12:00 pm and returned to the house, where we typically had a group meeting to discuss our day and share our experiences.</p>
<p>Once a week, we attended a presentation to learn more about Kenya's healthcare system, politics, or culture. On Wednesdays, we would visit either schools or orphanages to teach them about hand hygiene and women's hygiene, or spend time with the children.</p>
<p>Afternoons were generally free until dinner, allowing us time to rest or explore. After dinner, we could relax and enjoy the rest of the evening. Before bed, I always took time to journal, reflecting on my day and documenting what I had experienced and learned.</p>
<p>On Tuesdays and Thursdays, we had the opportunity to do night shifts, which I eagerly participated in. If I had a night shift, I would usually nap after returning from the hospital and then get up for dinner around 6:00 pm. We left for the hospital at 8:00 pm and stayed there until 6:00 am the following morning.</p>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>During my free time abroad, we often spent time at the pool, went to the beach, ate out, or enjoyed coffee and conversation at Java. Most of this time was shared with fellow interns, either in a large group or in a more intimate setting.</p>
<p>At the beach, we played soccer with local children, which was always a highlight. I also participated in the planned excursions through IMA, which took us to community outreach centers, animal sanctuaries, and historical sites.</p>
<p>In addition to exploring, I enjoyed simply spending time with my fellow interns at the main house. We often ended up playing games like Pictionary, hide-and-seek, or card games, creating fun and memorable moments.</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>My room was similar to an apartment. It had a family room with a fridge, water, a TV, and a couch where we could hang out. My room itself had a bunk bed and a single bed, with a bathroom attached. This setup was ideal because it allowed us to bond with our roommates while still having a place to relax outside of the room.</p>
<p>I appreciated having our own bathroom, especially since the other rooms in the apartment had to share one. It made it easier to manage with three girls rather than six. I also enjoyed the college-style living experience. We were all close by, which helped ease any feelings of homesickness.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1745477962/images2/interviews/MKNUIUljh1mUHUMQm8S48pGu8wM4vvPEIlkZCJNo.jpg" alt="Abbey and co-participants teaching young children about hand and teeth hygiene"><div class="caption"><p>Volunteering and teaching young children hand and teeth hygiene</p></div></div>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>It is extremely important to understand that what you put into the program is what you get out of it. This applies to all aspects, including the hospital, the IMA staff, fellow interns, and the locals. You can attend this internship and learn simply by observing and listening to what others are saying and asking, but if you push yourself to get involved, you will learn so much more.</p>
<p>The doctors and nurses want you to ask questions, but they won’t always prompt you to do so. You have to take the initiative and be willing to ask or engage in conversation with them. There may be times when you feel like you’re interrupting the doctor, but they don’t see it that way.</p>
<p>Take the time to really get to know the IMA staff. They are incredible individuals with fascinating stories and are knowledgeable about many aspects of Kenya and the hospital. Overall, stay open-minded and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/international-medical-aid rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>International Medical Aid (IMA)</ins></a> to others? Why?</h3>
<p>I would highly recommend IMA to others. It gave me the opportunity to meet people with similar interests from all over the world. It also opened my eyes to many challenges within the healthcare system.</p>
<p>IMA focused on providing a well-rounded experience. While we were there to shadow in the hospital, they also offered opportunities to engage with the local community and participate in excursions. This created an experience that’s difficult to replicate on your own or through another program.</p>
<p>Additionally, they balanced everything exceptionally well and maintained a strong relationship with Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital. You also gain hands-on experience with suturing and CPR clinics.</p>
<h3>What do you think is the biggest benefit of traveling abroad?</h3>
<p>Traveling abroad allows you to experience a culture and country firsthand. While there are many ways to learn about other countries and their cultures, such as through social media, books, TV, and pictures, none of these provide the opportunity to create your own personal experience.</p>
<p>Traveling allows you to discover inspiration you might never have encountered otherwise. You meet people from diverse backgrounds and hear stories that can influence and shape your life.</p>
<p>Most importantly, traveling lets you explore the world and, through those experiences, create change. We often get stuck in the mindset that we must work, have a family, retire, and then die, but that’s not truly living. There’s immense value in seeing the world and developing a new perspective that can enrich your life with deeper insight.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1745477963/images2/interviews/y4J0KQUGpuQBxz0JL4LP7ra2Zt74RLKuJtZiIio1.jpg" alt="Elephants walking in the Masai Mara during safari"><div class="caption"><p>One of the most memorable moments, the Masai Mara Safari</p></div></div>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>I will always remember my time abroad. The people I met, the places I experienced, and the knowledge I gained will stay with me. But what has impacted me the most is understanding how fortunate I am.</p>
<p>Many of the people I met in Mombasa had only the basic necessities to live, yet they were some of the happiest people I’ve ever met. They were simply grateful for the opportunity to live another day. They attributed this to their deep faith in their religion. They believed that their faith provided the guidance they needed and that they're on the path they were destined for.</p>
<p>This experience showed me how faith can truly help you navigate some of life’s deepest challenges. It inspired me to focus more on my own faith and to find parts of my day to be grateful for.</p>
<p>It also motivated me to make changes in the healthcare field. For example, I would love to start a foundation to send doctors and nurses to countries that are understaffed. I believe this could help alleviate burnout and ensure that adequate patient care is provided. While I’ve seen similar programs before, I feel that the more initiatives like this, the greater the chance to support underserved hospitals.</p>
<p>Additionally, it inspired me to examine the U.S. healthcare system and identify hospitals facing similar challenges. Many rural hospitals struggle with issues similar to those in the hospital in Mombasa. Overall, I am so grateful for this experience to learn, understand, and develop a deep understanding of what it means to serve others, which is the exact thing a nurse must do.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>You can travel and see all the world has to offer, but if you don't immerse yourself in the culture, then why did you go? Traveling is about experiencing how others live—both the good and the bad. By immersing yourself in their culture through cuisine, excursions, storytelling, and history, you’re engaging in meaningful travel.</p>
<p>To travel is to learn about the world firsthand. Doing this with an open mind and a caring nature is one of the best ways to experience it. Not only will they impact your life, but you also leave an impact on theirs. I always strive to leave a positive impact wherever I go, and to me, doing that while traveling is the most meaningful thing.</p>


Abbey Telesz

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

Abbey Telesz | International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview

International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview with Abbey Telesz

Penelope Dalton

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

Penelope Dalton | International Medical Aid (IMA)

International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview with Penelope Dalton

<h3>What inspired you to travel abroad?</h3>
<p>While growing up, my parents instilled in me the importance of travel and immersing myself in new cultures. They always prioritized saving for trips whenever possible and took us to new places to inspire a love for the world and its diversity.</p>
<p>I always knew I wanted to study abroad during my undergraduate years, but I was unsure where the trip would take me. After my freshman year of college, I fell in love with medicine. Through shadowing and my coursework, I realized how much I loved caring for others while applying my interest in the sciences.</p>
<p>I quickly realized that I wanted to expand my understanding of medicine in any way I could, which ultimately led to the idea of volunteering at a hospital abroad. This opportunity allowed me to immerse myself in an unfamiliar culture while continuing to grow both personally and professionally in the medical field.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1745475186/images2/interviews/MViaMzaKpdYkqYJ18LJ1foXXNpJ5Kztm8NZbCaYa.jpg" alt="Elizabeth with fellow volunteers and local children holding toothpaste and toothbrushes during a hygiene clinic"><div class="caption"><p>Hygiene education clinic at a local school, teaching students about handwashing and dental care with fellow volunteers</p></div></div>
<h3>Why did you choose <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/international-medical-aid rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>International Medical Aid (IMA)</ins></a>?</h3>
<p>Once I decided to volunteer abroad, I began researching different programs and what they offered. I was immediately drawn to programs that were offered in developing countries because they provided support to those who need it the most, and the healthcare systems differ heavily from those in the United States.</p>
<p>From there, I found International Medical Aid (IMA). IMA started to stick out to me through its website, which emphasized that the program’s mission was not only to educate its interns but also to make a meaningful impact on the local communities the interns would become a part of.</p>
<p>The alumni testimonials further reinforce the program’s intentionality and success in broadening the participants’ perspectives. Additionally, I connected with alumni of the program through my college, who spoke highly of the profound impact IMA had on their understanding of medicine and Kenyan culture. After interviewing and talking with the staff of IMA, I knew it was the program I belonged in.</p>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Mombasa, Kenya?</h3>
<p>My favorite part of the host city and country was witnessing the immense pride that everyone had in being Kenyan. Despite the challenging living conditions many face compared to the standard of living in the United States, it was inspiring to see how deeply connected people were to their heritage.</p>
<p>I loved learning about the different tribes from which individuals came and seeing how much they knew about each generation of their family. Through countless conversations, community members expressed their love for their country and shared that they had no desire to leave.</p>
<p>One beautiful symbol of this pride was the beaded bracelets that so many people wore, representing their love for Kenya. It stuck with me because while many might argue that the quality of life is higher in places like the United States, the level of pride for one’s country is rarely expressed. It was refreshing to see that a simple lifestyle and minimal material possessions could bring so much fulfillment when paired with a strong sense of community and appreciation for their country.</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>Countless aspects of my program made it truly extraordinary. One of the most memorable experiences was the friendliness and genuine care shown by everyone I encountered.</p>
<p>The hospital staff was incredibly welcoming and eager to ensure we learned as much as possible. They would go out of their way to learn about each intern's experiences and provide us with valuable educational experiences about medicine and culture.</p>
<p>The patients, despite facing emotionally challenging circumstances, remained positive and thankful, which was both humbling and inspiring. Getting to interact with mothers in the pediatric unit, who slept on plastic chairs day and night to be there for their child, will always be an experience that I continue to cherish and reflect on during my future healthcare career.</p>
<p>The IMA staff were equally supportive and prioritized each intern’s well-being and safety throughout our time in Kenya. My fellow interns also became some of my closest friends, as we encouraged and supported each other throughout the life-changing experience.</p>
<p>Additionally, exploring Kenya’s landscape through weekend trips and day adventures in Mombasa allowed me to fully immerse myself in the country’s culture and history. The experiences both inside and outside of the hospital made the program unforgettable.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1745475187/images2/interviews/OBaXKGOHkOsod1r1mBd59T7VVzuEhnj656LmGcJ7.jpg" alt="Elizabeth with other volunteers and two local students demonstrating correct handwashing technique."><div class="caption"><p>Demonstrating proper handwashing techniques to local students during a hygiene clinic with fellow volunteers</p></div></div>
<h3>How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The local staff went above and beyond to ensure each intern had the best and safest experience possible in Kenya. They were always available to answer questions or drive us to local malls and community spots, making it easy to enjoy and connect with the area.</p>
<p>One instance that truly demonstrated their care was when I came down with a stomach bug while volunteering at the hospital. With just one phone call to my program leader, I was picked up and brought back to the residence, where I was checked on twice afterward to ensure I was ok. This level of attentiveness demonstrated how cared for and secure I was during my internship.</p>
<p>In addition to their support, the staff organized lectures on Kenyan culture, Swahili, and hands-on clinical instruction, helping us deepen our understanding of healthcare and the local culture. They even provided a platform for interns to share feedback and suggestions, demonstrating their commitment to continuously improving the program and maximizing its impact.</p>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>One thing I wish I had done differently during my time abroad was to make a greater effort to engage with the doctors and clinical staff during certain rotations. In specialties like OBGYN and Pediatrics, I felt deeply connected with the staff and gained a thorough understanding of how these fields are practiced in Kenyan hospitals.</p>
<p>However, during my Internal Medicine and Surgery rotations, I feel I could have taken more initiative to build stronger connections with the staff. By starting more conversations and asking additional thoughtful questions, I believe I could have gained deeper insights into these specialties and further enriched my perspective on medicine.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>A typical day abroad began at 7 a.m. when I would wake up and get dressed in my blue scrubs for shadowing at the hospital. Some mornings, I would get up earlier to do a workout with other interns outside before going downstairs for breakfast. Breakfast was usually filled with lively conversations with the staff or other interns as we all tried to get to know each other better and reflected on our experiences the day before.</p>
<p>Then we would drive to the hospital, where the next 4 to 5 hours were spent in my assigned department. I would spend my time observing the clinical staff and trying to help out where I could. For example, I would often help gather supplies or assist with feeding long-term patients.</p>
<p>Then, I would remain at the hospital if an afternoon shift was available and spend lunch eating outside with the other interns before returning to shadowing. On days when afternoon shifts were not available, I would return to the residence and get changed for lunch.</p>
<p>Then, we would spend our afternoons at community clinics, such as hygiene clinics or menstrual clinics, to help educate the local community on basic healthcare, or learn about Kenyan culture through different scheduled lectures. Then my nights were traditionally spent hanging out with the other interns in the common area after dinner, either playing a game or watching a movie.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1745475187/images2/interviews/cuyVWzychdZvLSW7feSV1886iS59UenadkunId9a.jpg" alt="Elizabeth with five young female students smiling at the camera after a women’s health clinic"><div class="caption"><p>After a women’s health clinic where interns taught young female students about menstruation and proper hygiene practices.</p></div></div>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>During my free time abroad, I enjoyed exploring the community and immersing myself in the local culture through its restaurants, shops, and attractions. A small group of fellow interns and I quickly became close friends, and we often enjoyed going out to lunch or dinner to experience and learn more about the local culture.</p>
<p>Many afternoons were also spent cooling off in the pool after our hospital shifts, where we would reflect on our experiences and future goals. Being surrounded by like-minded individuals who shared my passion for healthcare was incredibly inspiring and deepened my appreciation for the field.</p>
<p>Furthermore, on Sundays, we typically started the day with a group activity and then spent the rest of the day reading in the common area. We all found that having these moments of personal time to reset after a busy week at the hospital was helpful in preparing for the week ahead.</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>During my time with International Medical Aid, all the interns stayed in a shared house that was divided into several apartment-style living areas. I shared a room with two other interns, where we slept in bunk beds and shared closet space.</p>
<p>Our floor also had a communal bathroom that we shared with three other girls in the room next to us. There was also a living room with couches, a TV, and a connected patio that was often used for our Sunday reset days.</p>
<p>The main house served as the central area for interns, where we all gathered for meals, clinical debriefs, and lectures. The house was located in a safe neighborhood where we could walk around and even access the beach, which added to the overall experience.</p>
<p>One of my favorite aspects of the accommodation was the sense of community it created within the group of interns. Being in a shared space provided plenty of opportunities to connect, whether it was reflecting on our shifts or relaxing together after a long day. The communal environment helped us become close quickly, which was comforting in an unfamiliar country and made my experience more meaningful.</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>Before beginning the program with International Medical Aid, every intern should be reminded that it is ok to feel hesitant or uncomfortable at first. Traveling to a new country alone, especially for those with limited travel experience, can feel intimidating.</p>
<p>However, I would reassure anyone considering the program that it is worth it. That initial unfamiliarity fades quickly, thanks to the incredible support from the other interns and the local staff.</p>
<p>I would tell them to go all in and immerse themselves in everything, even when it feels unfamiliar, because I found that those are the experiences that impacted me the most when I was abroad. The experience gained, both in the hospital and while being immersed in Kenya’s culture, is truly life-changing.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1745475188/images2/interviews/Qes1i8z4xyLZEJ0KGEvMBbo922nZThwYlb0aMrM2.jpg" alt="Elizabeth with a few of the interns laughing and enjoying time together at a community clinic"><div class="caption"><p>Sharing laughs and meaningful moments with fellow interns during our community clinics in Mombasa</p></div></div>
<h3>Would you recommend <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/international-medical-aid rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>International Medical Aid (IMA)</ins></a> to others? Why?</h3>
<p>Yes, I would highly recommend International Medical Aid to anyone pursuing a healthcare career. I believe it’s essential to understand different cultures and healthcare systems to broaden one’s knowledge and respect within the medical field.</p>
<p>My time in Kenya deepened my appreciation for both the U.S. healthcare system and Kenya’s approach to care. I gained a profound respect for the resources and opportunities available in the U.S., but I will always remember how the healthcare providers in Kenya made the most of what they had.</p>
<p>Each provider maintained a positive outlook without hesitation and delivered the best possible care, even if it was different from the practices we might see in the U.S. My time in Kenya completely altered the way I view patient care, and I believe it has made me a more compassionate healthcare worker.</p>
<p>The program was incredibly safe and well-organized, providing everything an intern needs daily. Moreover, the opportunity to explore Kenya's rich history and culture through organized trips further enriched my experience and added to the lasting impact of my time abroad.</p>
<h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?</h3>
<p>The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of other cultures, which allows for a broader worldview and respect for individual differences. Immersing oneself in a new culture can only truly be learned through firsthand experience.</p>
<p>The ability to learn about local customs, traditions, or ways of life offers invaluable insight that broadens an individual's perspective. These experiences can not be replaced by reading or studying a different culture, which adds to the magic of experiencing it.</p>
<p>Additionally, traveling abroad provides the chance to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, which offers new viewpoints and life experiences. For example, talking with clinical staff from all different backgrounds expanded my understanding of what being a good healthcare provider looks like in different cultures and how I can apply their knowledge to my own experiences. These experiences create a lasting impact that shapes an individual's culture and respect for the diversity of human experience.</p>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>My time abroad has profoundly influenced how I approach patient care, particularly in terms of compassion and empathy. During my time in Kenya, I learned that while advanced technology and medical tools certainly play a role in treatment, it is often the human connection, through genuine compassion and empathy, that truly impacts a patient’s healing journey.</p>
<p>I witnessed providers sit with stressed mothers and patients for hours to ensure that they knew they were doing everything that they could and that they were there for them during this hard time. Since returning home, I’ve made a conscious effort to be more mindful of my demeanor and the way I communicate with patients, ensuring that I’m providing warm and thoughtful care. I also developed a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to help others during their time of care.</p>
<p>Seeing how much the healthcare system in Kenya relies on resourcefulness and human connection continues to remind me not to take the privileges and opportunities in my life for granted. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the experiences provided for me, and I am committed to continuing to learn from them and striving to become the most compassionate and effective healthcare provider I can be.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1745475189/images2/interviews/4V0fCgouBIVPhmx65x4u66wxKCLReFDi4fG4nxGt.jpg" alt="A baby elephant following its mother during a safari in the Masai Mara"><div class="caption"><p>A mother and her baby elephant spotted during a safari in the Masai Mara National Reserve</p></div></div>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>For me, meaningful travel goes beyond simply visiting a country. It is about gaining a deeper understanding and perspective of the place and its people. It involves not just appreciating the country’s most beautiful landscapes or animals but also making a conscious effort to connect with the communities and immerse myself in their culture.</p>
<p>Meaningful travel also means using my time in these places to give back to the communities that have welcomed me. In Kenya, the most impactful moments were those spent connecting with local individuals, whether by offering help or sharing meaningful conversations. These experiences not only increased my enjoyment of my travels but also deepened my respect for the country and its community.</p>


Elizabeth Bolton

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

Elizabeth Bolton | International Medical Aid (IMA)

International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview with Elizabeth Bolton

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