Biology Internships in Kenya

This program allowed me to grow as an ethical leader in my community, a leader who leads by example. My experiences at Coast General will forever shape my perspective on health care and scarce resources in healthcare settings. While in Kenya, I received constant support from the IMA staff. One specific example that stands out to me was when I was left in the lab by one of the CCC doctors. I called Hilda for support, and even though she was not working that day, she immediately sent Dr. Shaziim to support me. In the residences, the mentors would always be looking out for me, making sure I was healthy and happy as I completed the program. One specific moment in Internal Medicine that stood out to me was when I did rounds in the women's ward with Dr. Shaziim and the gastroenterologist. Dr. Shaziim incorporated my previous knowledge of HIV from the CCC into explanations to help me learn and build upon my knowledge. Thanks to their efforts to involve me in their diagnosis process, I now want to pursue gastroenterology.

Kisumu is a safe and interesting city with many places to visit, eat, and explore. The people are very respectful, friendly, and welcoming, and transportation within the city is accessible and easy to use. Kenya is a country full of culture and history, with a variety of places to visit, from local museums to cultural sites. There are many restaurants, cafés, and local food spots where you can relax and enjoy the experience. The people are warm, relaxed, and very polite. The team was very supportive and kindly arranged airport pickup and departure, as well as recommending places to visit. Beatrice is a wonderful person who cares deeply about the women in the program, and there is very important work being done, especially in empowering women through skills training, support, and community development. The program supports many women, and while resources can sometimes be limited, the dedication and effort put into the work is truly inspiring. TIPS: Make sure you take time to explore the city and try traditional Kenyan food. Visit local attractions such as the lakeside, markets, and cultural sites. As for the project, don’t be afraid to share ideas and engage actively with the women. Beatrice is very open and welcoming to suggestions. While some tasks may take time, there is always an opportunity to interact, support, and learn from the community.