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General Travel

<h3>What inspired you to travel abroad?</h3>
<p>When I was three years old, I lost my leg as a result of a lawnmower accident. The days following my accident were slow and terrifying as I traveled my long road to recovery. A few years later, I was well-adjusted to my new leg, and at five years old, I started my first day of kindergarten. I adapted so well to my new way of life; it was as if I had always been an amputee. I retained my cheerful and determined spirit. Living as an amputee presented many challenges to me. However, my life experiences have only served to strengthen me and make me a more determined and passionate woman. The first responders and the medical team who assisted me after my accident did so much more than just their job/role; they comforted me, supported me, and went above and beyond to make me feel safe and confident as I embraced a whole new way of living. They made me feel loved and valuable despite the loss of my leg. God used all these experiences to plant the seed, and the people in my life lit the fire in my heart to help others as I had been helped. This, coupled with the desire to experience life and culture outside of my world and my small circle of experience, inspired me to look for opportunities to go abroad. Everyone I talked to and everything that I read online by those who had gone abroad expressed what an incredible journey it was for them. So, I made the decision to apply to IMA with the intent to push my limits, to stretch myself outside of my comfort zone, and to experience a life-changing trip.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1741933644/images2/interviews/V934sglrQAuuQDuadvhX2aOD7FTn4oXjWEXVejip.jpg" alt="three elephants in the wild"><div class="caption"><p>The majestic elephants in Kenya.</p></div></div>
<h3>Why did you choose International Medical Aid?</h3>
<p>I actually stumbled upon the International Medical Aid program while researching opportunities to acquire direct patient care hours for my application to PA school. I have always wanted to study abroad or serve on a mission trip, but it never worked out for me to go. Once I read about IMA, I was immediately interested in attending the PA internship program. Africa has long been at the top of my list of places I've wanted to visit. IMA offered me the opportunity to experience intensive clinical shadowing in several specialties, help with clinical work, engage in community outreach, attend lectures, and so much more. The program also included PA school admissions support, 24/7 U.S. and local country support, orientation and training, gated housing with security 24/7, health/travel/accident insurance, local transportation, and daily meals prepared by chefs and kitchen employees. All these incredible things made my decision to apply extremely easy!</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1741933645/images2/interviews/JzpRtOGuMVNVtIWnPXbb7zAZEMlrZbNX043S2P0d.jpg" alt="program participant together with a group of students holding a pack of sanitary pads"><div class="caption"><p>Chloe with some of the participants at a school for women's reproductive health clinics they participated in bi-weekly.</p></div></div>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Kenya?</h3>
<p>Kenya was absolutely breathtaking. My favorite part about Kenya was the foliage, the unique variety of animals ranging from monkeys to elephants, and the amazing Kenyan people and their unique culture. Seeing the tall mango trees, palm trees, and other exotic plants on the grounds was incredible. Every night, I enjoyed watching the sunset from the patio of our living quarters and listening to the chitter of insects and whistles of the birds. Another favorite part was the Safari expedition–this was, by far, the best thing I have ever experienced in my life. The Kenyans I met on my trip were so unbelievably welcoming and generous. Anything I needed from the IMA staff, such as food accommodations, a shower seat, or extra towels, they provided without hesitation.</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>The journey in itself was what made my experience abroad extraordinary. I was pushed beyond my limits, and I learned so much about myself and really grew in my confidence. Shadowing the doctors and hospital staff helped me learn so much about the study of medicine. The Kenyan people have such a welcoming and hospitable culture that it was impossible not to fall in love with them and their country. The activities, excursions, friendships, and staff made my trip so memorable. On the second day of the program, we traveled to different excursions on a bus and listened to pop music. After one of the clinics we attended ended late, the staff brought us pizza on the bus. One of my best friends on the trip and I laughed together and ate some good food that reminded us of home. On one of our last nights in Kenya, my friends and I hung around in the courtyard and played soccer. We talked and laughed and began to reminisce about our experiences together over the past month, like going out for breakfast on Saturdays to our favorite restaurant in Mombassa. We would follow it up with a day by the pool and some much-needed relaxation. After every hospital rotation, we would discuss our day on the bus ride home and share stories and events that impacted us that day. There are so many moments that I will never forget!</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1741933646/images2/interviews/O4UQWDgBzNJL4HBKdziRwWGlSdKNaUGIsoUHAbg0.jpg" alt="woman hugging the young girl"><div class="caption"><p>Chloe hugging a sweet little girl after lessons on proper toothbrushing and handwashing at a hygiene clinic.</p></div></div>
<h3>How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The staff was so welcoming and helpful. Anything I needed from the IMA staff, such as food accommodations, a shower seat, or extra towels, they provided without hesitation. One day, I had to skip my hospital rotation when I was feeling under the weather, not only did the staff check on me, but they brought me food and something to drink. The staff made me feel so comforted and cared for, especially since I was so far from home. Transportation was provided to anywhere I wanted to go, such as stores and restaurants, etc. The staff had regular check-ins with us and always asked how our rotations were going. There was also a personal staff mentor assigned to us who was available for any questions, concerns, or problems that we might have.What's one thing you wish you would have done differently to this trip of a lifetime?</p>
<p>I honestly have no regrets, and there is really nothing that I wish I had done differently. However, if I had to say something, I would say that I wish I had taken on more hospital rotations. My time at the public hospital where we conducted our rotations was grueling, and I saw many difficult things that I may never be able to speak about. That was the reason why I was hesitant to extend my rotation at the hospital; I felt like I needed time afterward to decompress and write in my journal about the things I experienced that morning.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>Most days, I would wake up early, around 6-7 am, and prepare for my hospital rotation. I was required to wear scrubs, closed-toed shoes, masks, and sometimes gloves when appropriate. I brought a backpack to carry extra supplies, a journal for notes, pencils, snacks, and a water bottle. After I was packed and ready, I would eat breakfast in the dining hall and then get on the bus that would take my group to the hospital. Most of the interns ended their rotation around noon, and we would head back to our living quarters to eat lunch. Sometimes, we would have a debriefing, while other times, we would host clinics in the local community or we would be able to go on a fun excursion. In the evenings, after dinner, we were free to do as we pleased, which is when I would shower or FaceTime with my family and friends and I would write in my journal and reflect on my day. Sometimes, we would go into the city to get frozen yogurt, but other times, we would stay at the residence and have a game/movie night.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1741933646/images2/interviews/EKxUHulwmheviwhwQhQqw6PgSpt6Wq9czI5lyEgJ.jpg" alt="program participants proudly showing their certificate of completion"><div class="caption"><p>Chloe happily smiling with her IMA friends with their certificates of completion. </p></div></div>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing in your free time in Kenya?</h3>
<p>I really enjoyed the fun excursions that IMA planned, as well as swimming and sitting by the pool, walking to the beach in the mornings, getting frozen yogurt with friends, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying coffee and eating at local restaurants together with friends. I often Facetimed my family/friends in the evenings or sometimes watched TV shows with my roommates. We loved hosting game nights, movie nights, and wine nights at our residence, always welcoming other friends to hang out with us.</p>
<h3>Did you have any special request?</h3>
<p>The only accommodation I had was the gluten-free option for meals. I selected this because I have a slight sensitivity to gluten, but it wasn't an absolute necessity. The staff was always kind enough to tell me which meals had gluten and offered me alternatives when necessary. They would provide scrambled eggs in the morning as a special request when asked.</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>Any future participant should know that the beginning of the program is the hardest part. Getting into a routine, making friends, and trying not to sike yourself out is challenging. On the flight over to your destination, you may seriously doubt your decision and wonder what you got yourself into, but trust me, it is SO worth it. I would not change a single thing about my experience abroad. Also, remember that if you travel to a warm climate, make sure to bring more lightweight and flowy clothing as it gets very humid–a daily shower will be a definite! It would also be extremely helpful if a participant learned some of the native languages beforehand.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend International Medical Aid’s internship programs to others? Why?</h3>
<p>Yes, I would absolutely recommend the PA internship to others! The staff of IMA were some of the most generous, welcoming, and kindest people that I have ever met. They were knowledgeable about cultural customs, which were the best grocery stores to shop at, and which local cuisine to try. The IMA staff were always available to talk to if we were having a hard time adjusting to the program and/or any difficulty during our time at the hospital. The four weeks I spent in Kenya as a PA intern were incredible; my experiences there were life-changing and invaluable to my future as a potential PA.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1741933647/images2/interviews/4ld8DOW0EKuLEdnD0dbT2IlNkGr2xCL0YmEyumgn.jpg" alt="program participants in casual attire"><div class="caption"><p>The IMA program participants all dressed-up for their final night in Kenya.</p></div></div>
<h3>What do you feel is the biggest benefit of traveling abroad?</h3>
<p>Traveling abroad opened my eyes to how blessed I am to live in the United States. It provided me with a newfound thankfulness and appreciation for the American healthcare system. I experienced a whole new way of life outside of everything I had ever known. It pushed me outside my comfort zone, and I became more courageous to try new things and meet new people.</p>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad changed your perspective in life?</h3>
<p>Every time I go to the doctor, have a checkup with my dentist, or make use of any medical service, I remember what life was like for the citizens of Kenya. I remember the limited resources that were available for those in great need and the poverty that plagued the people of Mombassa. Upon returning home, I have a renewed desire to return to a third-world country when I become a physician assistant. I want to give back to those who welcomed and embraced a stranger from America who had nothing much to offer them.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel means that I travel for a cause and purpose, not just for leisure or recreation. I am there to give of myself and my time to help others even if I am tired, worn out, or just don't feel up to it. It means sacrifice, determination, vigor, and purpose. No matter how insignificant I think that my presence was to the Kenyan people I met along the way, I hope that somehow, I impacted those around me for the better.</p>


Chloe Schmidt

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

Chloe Schmidt | International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview

International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview with Chloe Schmidt

<h3>What inspired you to travel abroad?</h3>
<p>My main academic and professional focus is social justice's role in mental health and learning how to provide care across different cultures. Kenya immediately stood out as I had traveled a little in Africa beforehand and had loved it. I live in a pretty homogenous community and knew that if I wanted to provide the care I was so passionate about, I needed a very different experience under my belt.</p>
<h3>Why did you choose International Medical Aid (IMA)?</h3>
<p>I knew that this would be an emotionally difficult internship and wanted to ensure I was best supported from as many different angles as possible. IMA had phenomenal reviews on the staff, the mentorship, and the safety, all of which were my primary priorities. And the reviews didn't fail! I felt supported at every step by both the staff and the friendships that IMA helped cultivate. I read so many reviews just like this and felt they were all written overly optimistically, but having done it all now myself, I now know that they were nothing but the truth.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1741162632/images2/interviews/TIMoNekHEJUAvjQwh8rFkVL7Tl22gJ2mZ0bg4uvl.jpg" alt="interns interacting with the locals"><div class="caption"><p>Alice in their community outreach for mental health at a local high school.</p></div></div>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Kenya?</h3>
<p>My favorite parts of Kenya were the community and the people. As a mental health intern, I had the privilege of having regular in-depth conversations with different Kenyan patients about their own lives, troubles, and culture. I kept being surprised by the value placed on family and community in Kenya; no matter what the patient was going through, they always spoke about their family and loved ones with such respect and admiration.</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>Every element of my experience was extraordinary, from the moment IMA picked me up from the airport to hugging my friends goodbye after the plane ride from Mombasa. The mentors were so friendly and helpful, that I even had an hour and a half long conversation with one about the politics in Mombasa at the time. The adventures we were led on were so educational and fun; I wasn't able to spend time on a trek, but even the free afternoon ones were extraordinary. Lastly, the hospital was so educational, and it was made evident immediately that IMA would vouch for us to get the best experience possible. While the trip was expensive, I kept feeling gratitude that my money was going towards the staff's salaries and community outreaches.</p>
<h3>How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>I felt welcomed at every step, either through the food, the hospitality, or the conversations. The IMA staff went above and beyond to show us different cultural landmarks, which included tour guides, different types of food, and opportunities to explore on our own while still feeling safe. The hospital staff made sure to ask us how we liked everything, make sure we understood the expectations, and let us engage with patients within reason.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1741162633/images2/interviews/pbggAwN935EBrgeqvvnS69E2yzRccSpwR9W5B1bl.png" alt="women with face paint on their face"><div class="caption"><p>Alice with her so-participants on their last day of internship, it was an emotional night.</p></div></div>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>I wish I had stayed longer. I couldn't, for many reasons, but looking back, every moment was so packed full of adventure and learning that I wish I had more of them. I only stayed for two weeks, but between the hospital shifts, the afternoon adventures, nights out, and weekend excursions, I felt like I had been there only a few days and also a month by the time I was leaving.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>We would wake up around 7, eat a delicious and nutritious breakfast, and get bussed to the hospital. Once at the hospital, we would join in on the mental health staff's morning briefing and decide where we would go for the day. The hospital had Kenyan mental health interns from the local universities, so one or two IMA interns would join a pairing of the Mental Health interns. My favorite shifts, however, would be when I would get to join one of the psychologists and shadow her. From here, we would do rounds in our assigned departments. For example, I would go to a ward with my little group, and we would ask nurses if there seemed to be any patients who needed psychological support. The maternity ward, for example, always needed us. After doing our rounds, we would head back for a daily debrief with the mental health department before catching the bus back to the residence. We would have lunch and then were usually given the option to go on an IMA-based adventure or do something with friends. Some nights, I would go to a restaurant with my little friend group or play board games/watch TV with a larger group. Usually, I was in bed by ten and very quickly asleep.</p>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing in your free time in Kenya?</h3>
<p>I usually don't make friends super easily, but something about the environment or the group of people I was with made socializing so fun and spontaneous that I quickly had close friends. I get intimidated easily, but everyone was so welcoming and fun, plus the shared experience made it easy to get close. A usual introvert, I spent so much time outside of the hospital with different friends that I could barely recognize myself! Whether at the pool, walking to the beach, or out for food, I was barely ever in my room, despite how spacious they were!</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1741162634/images2/interviews/X1CMx41rAfBzz5BIb5bai5MS2pclUyLZZ8yladcS.png" alt="sunset view and a monkey  "><div class="caption"><p>Alice’s last Kenyan sunset at the airport.</p></div></div>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>We had a huge residence, much bigger than I was expecting, with a pool, multiple different dormitory-like buildings, and lots of common spaces. I was in the main house, which included the kitchen, the main common space, and the dining room, with only five or six bedrooms above. I loved how quiet and respectful everyone was of each other's space. I had to share a bathroom with five or six girls, but everyone was kind and courteous about it. While there were a few stories of people being kept up by their roommates or others getting home, we had a curfew at 12, and I never personally witnessed anyone breaking it.</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about IMA Cross-Cultural Care Mental Health Internships Abroad before their program begins?</h3>
<p>Bring a blanket and multiple towels if you plan on swimming regularly, but honestly? Don't sweat it. Anything you don't bring, the residence can either lend you or will help you know where to buy it. I freaked out the first day because I had forgotten my malaria pills at home, but one of the mentors was so kind and led me through the process of buying them, even delivering me to the pharmacy personally. Between the staff, the mentors, and new friends, you will end up with everything you could need or want. Lots of other girls, who left the day I got there, passed on their toiletries, scrubs, and gloves so they wouldn't have to pack them going back.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend International Medical Aid (IMA) to others? Why?</h3>
<p>Yes! I already made one friend sign up for another program through IMA and have been lobbying other friends to do it as well. It is the best experience for anyone wanting to establish their independence while staying supported and thoroughly safe, especially overseas. The work is draining but incredibly eye-opening, and the community outreach that IMA provides is valuable to both the community and their interns. I happened to get there the weekend of one community outreach and leave the weekend of another, so I got to go to two despite only staying two weeks, and each one was a priceless experience.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1741162635/images2/interviews/2j0qWXEoAn9nnFXaTwzrNcoTr5qyE4vNygJCxjki.png" alt="a woman and a dog in the woods"><div class="caption"><p>Alice with her dog and in her natural habitat–the woods.</p></div></div>
<h3>What do you feel is the biggest benefit of traveling abroad?</h3>
<p>My home in a privileged city in Washington State provides me with a lot, but it is a very homogenous culture. While my education has been superb, you would be hard-pressed to find a professor or a book that can provide the insight that travel can on a culture's perspective and struggles. As someone who wants to pursue work with people, in any capacity but especially mental health, I realized quickly that I wouldn't be able to provide the care I am so passionate about without submerging myself in as many cultures as possible.</p>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>I've always focused on social justice and helping people across different cultures, but my time with IMA completely changed the way I pursue this. I learned so many different and valuable lessons on mental health across cultures, as well as how to connect with someone who looks, sounds, and behaves nothing like me. There is so much value in different perspectives, especially in mental health, that I truly believe this trip changed my professional trajectory and approach.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel needs to be safe, educational, and beautiful. No one can learn without feeling secure, but I believe meaningful travel also involves leaving your comfort zone to a certain degree. IMA provides an amazing balance between newfound independence and making sure you are as safe as possible while away from your support network. Meaningful travel also means escaping a "tourist" mindset, seeing more than just what is beautiful about a location, and seeing how others live and the struggles attached to it.</p>


Alice Curtis

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

Alice Curtis | International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview

International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview with Alice Curtis

<h3>What inspired you to travel abroad?</h3>
<p>I've always been driven by a strong desire to travel, experience new places, and connect with people from diverse backgrounds. Immersing myself in different cultures and practices brings me immense joy, as it combines my passions for meeting new people, creating meaningful experiences, and gaining valuable life lessons. Additionally, I'm deeply motivated to enhance my Spanish-speaking skills, which adds another layer of purpose to my travels. After graduating from university and deciding to take two gap years before applying to medical school, I wanted to use this time productively. I sought opportunities that would allow me to explore the world while continuing to grow personally and professionally. This aspiration led me to pursue an abroad medical program, ultimately selecting IMA for its alignment with my goals.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1741165332/images2/interviews/9oHxvGDib4X3syabZCDYuI6SEZwy2E4zKtnrYpYc.png" alt="participants teaching the students in the classroom"><div class="caption"><p>Maggie, with her co-participants teaching local students of Cusco, Peru, about feminine health.</p></div></div>
<h3>Why did you choose International Medical Aid (IMA)?</h3>
<p>After thorough research, I chose International Medical Aid (IMA) because of its extensive resources and alignment with my values. I am deeply passionate about educating underserved communities on critical health issues and preventative measures. The opportunity to observe and participate in a different healthcare system first-hand resonated with my commitment to global health. I specifically selected the South American program as Spanish is my second language, and I actively seek opportunities to refine my skills. Immersing myself in a new culture while contributing to healthcare initiatives was the perfect way to combine my interests. Moreover, IMA's strong reputation and ethical practices reassured me that this organization would provide a meaningful and impactful experience.</p>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Cusco, Peru?</h3>
<p>My favorite part of Cusco, Peru, was the warm and welcoming energy of the locals. Every person I encountered made me feel included and appreciated. As I practiced my Spanish, the locals were patient and supportive, creating a safe space for me to improve my skills. In the hospitals, doctors went out of their way to involve me in patient interactions, using each moment as an opportunity to teach and share their knowledge. Even the patients were open and accepting of my presence, which made my experience all the more meaningful. Every morning during the IMA program, I went for a run and witnessed Cusco waking up—the city slowly coming alive as its hardworking and kind-hearted people prepared for the day. These moments highlighted the incredible sense of community and resilience that defines the Peruvian people, leaving a lasting impression on me.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1741165333/images2/interviews/XWtTmNkdD8MbhukaVnhTaV1VVG6djr7tgGmo38gi.png" alt="woman standing in front of the Machu Picchu view"><div class="caption"><p>Maggie enjoying a sunny day in Machu Picchu.</p></div></div>
<h3>What made your experience abroad unforgettable?</h3>
<p>What made my experience abroad truly extraordinary was the incredible support and dedication of the IMA staff and doctors. The IMA team went above and beyond to ensure my safety in the city while also encouraging me to have fun and learn. They were patient as I practiced my Spanish and offered invaluable cultural insights, recommending local restaurants and dishes to help me fully embrace the Peruvian lifestyle. The doctors at the local hospital enriched my experience by turning every patient interaction into a learning opportunity. They shared insights ranging from individual healthcare challenges to broader cultural and national health issues in Peru. This combination of guidance, cultural immersion, and hands-on education made my time abroad unforgettable.</p>
<h3>How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The IMA staff provided exceptional support throughout my program, ensuring my safety, enjoyment, and education while abroad. They checked in daily, asking thoughtful questions and seeking feedback to enhance my experience. Their recommendations of local restaurants and traditional dishes helped me fully immerse myself in Peruvian culture. Additionally, they guided me and my IMA peers to historic sites such as Saqsaywaman and the Complejo Arqueológico de Q'enqo, enriching our understanding of the region's history. My time abroad would not have been nearly as incredible without the support of the local IMA staff.</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 taking more opportunities to practice Spanish with my peers. While many of our interactions at the hotel and elsewhere were in English, I regret not being more persistent in using Spanish, not only with the locals but also with my fellow IMA participants. This would have further enhanced my language skills and cultural immersion.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1741165334/images2/interviews/5L41LD2U9tFR4azcF2tumU58bhymp2RuPuT6t5r8.jpg" alt="women teaching local students about dental hygiene "><div class="caption"><p>Maggie teaching local students of Cusco, Peru about dental hygiene.</p></div></div>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>My typical day abroad began at 6 a.m. when I would wake up and go on a 3-mile run. After my run, I quickly showered and had a nourishing breakfast at the hotel. My IMA peers and I would then take a bus to the local hospital, where we met with doctors at 8 a.m. to shadow their patient interactions until noon. Afterward, we returned to the hotel for lunch and enjoyed an hour or so of free time to relax or explore. The afternoons varied but always included an educational component. For example, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, we had 3-hour Spanish lessons. The day wrapped up with dinner, providing a perfect end to our enriching routine.</p>
<h3></h3>
<h3>What did you do during your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>During my free time abroad, I loved exploring every corner of Cusco. Whether it was on my morning runs or afternoon walks, I enjoyed discovering the unique aspects of the city. I also made it a mission to visit numerous local coffee shops, always on the hunt for the best coffee in Cusco. These moments of exploration and relaxation added a special touch to my experience and made my time abroad truly unforgettable.</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>During my time abroad, I stayed in a hotel where I shared a room with two of my fellow IMA peers. I appreciated the safety, cleanliness, and consistency of the accommodation, which made me feel comfortable and secure. Additionally, sharing a room allowed me to bond with other IMA students, helping me form lasting friendships with people I could connect with.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1741165335/images2/interviews/5H6dh4pspe0DWVBrd1606Z9Kf9J8ArM242WUIdJX.png" alt="women hiking"><div class="caption"><p>Maggie with her friend hiking the Inca trail.</p></div></div>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about Global Health &amp; Pre-Medicine Internships Abroad with IMA before their program begins?</h3>
<p>One thing every future participant should know is that while knowing Spanish is certainly helpful during your time abroad, it is not a requirement. The IMA staff and many locals are accustomed to working with non-Spanish speakers, and you'll find plenty of support in navigating language barriers. However, if you do have some Spanish knowledge, it will definitely enhance your experience and help you connect more deeply with the local community. Either way, they’ll still have an enriching and rewarding experience!</p>
<h3>Would you recommend International Medical Aid (IMA) to others? Why?</h3>
<p>Yes, I would highly recommend the IMA program to others. Since the IMA Instagram account featured a "<em>Day in the Life</em>" video of me, I frequently have prospective participants reaching out to ask if I recommend the program—and every time, I wholeheartedly do. I emphasize how much I learned during my time abroad while still having a lot of fun. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I’m incredibly grateful for. I had unforgettable moments and developed a deep love for both Peruvian culture and the city of Cusco.</p>
<h3>What do you feel is the biggest benefit of traveling abroad?</h3>
<p>The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the chance to immerse yourself in a completely different culture, gaining new perspectives on life, health, and human connection. It truly challenged my assumptions and broadened my worldview. I developed valuable skills, such as adaptability and communication, which are crucial for many aspects of life, especially in my future healthcare career. The relationships, memories, and lessons I gained are priceless, and they will undoubtedly aid me on my journey to becoming a physician.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1741165336/images2/interviews/9Hp2GhX3tQvLQOju2IyTN75VzXCT7kyTmiHyHF7T.png" alt="woman at the peek of Rainbow Mountain"><div class="caption"><p>Maggie climbing the peak of Rainbow Mountain.</p></div></div>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>Now that I’m home, I’ve been able to apply the lessons I learned to my interactions back in the U.S. My Spanish-speaking skills have improved, allowing me to communicate more effectively with local Spanish speakers. Additionally, I’m much more open-minded and culturally aware, which has enhanced my ability to relate to and understand people from diverse backgrounds. This experience has broadened my perspective, both personally and professionally, and has strengthened my commitment to global healthcare and cultural competence.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>To me, meaningful travel means approaching every experience and interaction as an opportunity to learn and grow. It involves stepping outside of your comfort zone, embracing new perspectives, and being open-minded in all situations. Meaningful travel is about immersing yourself in different cultures, building connections, and gaining insights that will shape who you are, both personally and professionally.</p>


Maggie Cornelius

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

Maggie Cornelius | International Medical Aid (IMA)

International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview with Maggie Cornelius

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