What inspired you to travel abroad?
My inspiration to travel abroad stems from my belief in the importance of expanding one’s knowledge outside the confines of their own “bubble.” I have always believed that there is a great value in experiencing the world from different perspectives than my own.
Traveling to new places has allowed me to break free from my cultural context and gain an appreciation for different ways of life than I am used to. I have been fortunate enough to learn more about different traditions and religions by immersing myself in unfamiliar cultures.
I believe this has challenged my own beliefs and assumptions, allowing me to grow as an individual. Exploring and living in new places has allowed me to have a greater sense of gratitude in my own life.
Watching firsthand the challenges other cultures experience that I do not face regularly has allowed me to cultivate a greater sense of compassion, empathy, and gratitude. I also believe that connecting with individuals and making friendships with people outside of my own culture has allowed me to have new perspectives on life.
It has also allowed me to have difficult conversations with individuals with opposing beliefs than myself. I believe this is important in understanding that you can have respect for individuals and friendships with people who do not think the way you do. I think this is a crucial part of growing as a human.
I was inspired to go abroad with International Medical Aid because I wanted to put my beliefs about traveling and experiencing new cultures into the world of global health.
In terms of healthcare, you encounter individuals every day who do not think the way you do. I think traveling and working abroad has allowed me to heighten my ability to cultivate relationships.
Along with this, respect for individuals who are different than me, allowing me to be the best physician assistant I can be. All of these sentiments have inspired me and continue to inspire me to travel.
On a drive in Masai Mara National Reserve!
Why did you choose International Medical Aid (IMA)?
I wanted to learn about a different healthcare system than my own and push myself out of my comfort zone. I found it challenging to find an internship tailored to physician assistants, and when I stumbled upon this one, I was ecstatic.
Initially, I was drawn to this internship because a college friend of mine had been a part of one of IMA’s internships two years prior and had glowing reviews.
She told me about her individual growth, the impactful work she did, and how amazing it was to experience and work in a new culture.
After I was accepted into the program, I was amazed by the responsiveness of IMA’s staff and willingness to help with flights or any questions that I had. This exchange allowed me to feel very confident in my decision to intern for this program.
I think what set this internship apart from others is the organization's support system after the internship.
Beyond the internship, the staff wants to see all of their interns succeed. I have seen this firsthand with guidance with graduate program applications, interview preparation, and letters of recommendation.
The program cares about its interns' long-term success and is committed to the future of new healthcare professionals. I wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone, finding an internship tailored to physician assistants, the professionalism of the program and its employees, and the promise of guidance throughout.
After completing the internship, I can say I was blown away by the program and the staff as a whole, and I would recommend the experience to anyone wanting to learn about global health.
What was your favorite part about Mombasa?
My favorite part about Mombasa was the vibrant culture. From spice and food markets to beautiful beach life, it was filled with so much color and energy, which was so exciting to me.
I enjoyed walking around the markets and choosing a few food/spice items that stood out to me that I had never tried. I would immediately go back to our place and try the new flavors. Walking around the markets gave me a real sense of joy.
The sounds, the smells, the hustle and bustle of it all, I found it very beautiful to witness. After a long day or week working at the hospital, it was so nice to get some friends and walk to the beach. I would often make my friends stop at different convenience markets along our walk to try new snacks or drinks at the beach.
The energy at the beach was always lively yet relaxing. It was so fun and surprising to see tuk-tuks zipping around the roads with each one individualized, with their own colors/designs.
My favorite part about Kenya was that there was such a vast difference between the three places I went to: the coastal region, the capital, Nairobi, and Masai Mara National Reserve. Each place had its own unique culture and vibrancy.
At one point, I signed up for a safari in the Masai Mara National Reserve. The whole experience was amazing - we saw the big five, which was a huge highlight.
We were able to visit a Maasai tribe and learn about their different cultures and rituals. We were able to dance with them, were welcomed into their homes, and were introduced to their family members.
Donating blood at a drive!
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
The staff and the camaraderie between the other interns is what made my experience abroad extraordinary. What made it truly remarkable was the diverse cohort of interns coming from all corners of the world.
Interacting and living with other interns from different cultural backgrounds sparked insightful nightly conversations and provided a unique opportunity to gain new perspectives on healthcare practices and global issues.
From the moment we arrived in Mombasa, the staff made us feel like family, welcoming us with open arms and going above and beyond. Whether it was guiding us through patient care in a resource-limited setting or introducing us to the vibrant colors of Mombasa, the staff’s dedication and mentorship were crucial in shaping our experience.
Their willingness to share their knowledge, expertise, and love for their community left me with a deep appreciation for the power of human connection outside of cultural boundaries.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
The support provided by the International Medical Aid staff during my internship was truly unparalleled, extending far beyond the confines of professional guidance to encompass a genuine commitment to our well-being and personal growth.
Their unwavering dedication to our comfort and success created a nurturing environment that allowed us to thrive both professionally and personally.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the staff's support was their availability around the clock. Whether it was in the dead of night or the early hours of the morning, they were always just a phone call away, ready to lend a listening ear or offer assistance in any way they could.
This sense of accessibility instilled a profound sense of security and reassurance, knowing that help was never far away. I was amazed by the staff's attention to our dietary needs and preferences, exemplified by their dedication to our holistic well-being.
From cooking us delicious meals that catered to our individual allergies and food sensitivities to ensuring that our dietary requirements were met during group outings and excursions, they went above and beyond to ensure that we felt nourished and cared for at all times.
Beyond the realm of logistical support, the staff also made a concerted effort to form genuine connections with each of us. Whether it was through casual hangouts, shared meals, or engaging conversations, they took the time to get to know us on a personal level, fostering a sense of camaraderie and belonging within the group.
Additionally, the daily check-ins provided by the staff served as a valuable opportunity for reflection and support. These check-ins allowed us to discuss our experiences, share any challenges or concerns we were facing, and receive guidance and encouragement from our mentors.
The staff's willingness to provide transportation whenever needed ensured that we were able to navigate our surroundings and access essential resources safely.
Whether it was a ride to the hospital for our clinical rotations or a trip to explore the local sights, they always made sure that our transportation needs were met with efficiency and care.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
While the entire month presented invaluable learning opportunities, it was during the final two weeks that I truly found my voice and became more vocal within the hospital setting.
In the initial stages of my internship, I found myself navigating a new environment filled with unfamiliar protocols, procedures, and expectations. While I was eager to learn and contribute, a lingering sense of apprehension held me back from fully expressing myself and asking questions.
I often found myself observing rather than actively engaging, hesitant to speak up or seek clarification when needed. However, as the weeks progressed and I grew more accustomed to the hospital routines and dynamics, I began to shed my inhibitions and embrace a more assertive approach.
During the final stretch of my internship, I made a conscious effort to step out of my comfort zone. I started challenging myself to actively participate in discussions, ask questions, and seek out opportunities for hands-on learning.
One morning in particular, a nurse came up to me and asked, “Are you a Christian?” I answered yes, not knowing what that was going to mean for me.
The nurse turned and looked at his fellow nurses and then asked me, “Would you lead the prayer for the day?” I nervously said yes and prayed over their floor.
Looking back, I can't help but wonder how much more I could have gained from my internship had I found the courage to be more vocal from the beginning. While I am proud of the progress I made during the final two weeks, I can't help but wish that I had embraced that confidence earlier on.
Cleaning out ears at a local clinic!
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
A typical day in my life in Mombasa began with an alarm going off around seven in the morning. My roommates and I would hop out of bed, do our morning routines, and put our royal blue scrubs on.
We would make our way down to the dining room, have breakfast together, and discuss who was in what specialty for the day/week. Then, we would make sure we have all of our belongings for the day–including toilet paper–because it was not offered in the restrooms at Coast General.
We would all load up in the van and drive about fifteen minutes to Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital. During my time in Mombasa, I shadowed and worked in the surgery department, the emergency department, pediatrics, and internal medicine.
I also had a few days where I got to experience ears, nose, and throat, and obstetrics. We observed and participated in many different departments and procedures. It was typical to rotate through and experience a bit of each.
Around one in the afternoon, we would be picked up from the hospital and went back home for lunch. We would often have about an hour to relax and then would debrief about the day at the hospital.
The afternoon activities would range from having Swahili lessons to surgical technique simulations with Dr. Shazim to exploring Mombasa or doing outreach clinics within different parts of Mombasa.
In the evening, we would all have dinner together and share stories about our days. Some evenings, we would go for a late-night swim in the pool at our place. We’d also go to the local mall and walk around, and some days, we would watch movies and play games together.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
During my free time, I loved to go to the beach and the markets with the other interns. It was a nice getaway after a long, sometimes emotionally taxing day.
We would often go to the local mall, get a coffee and walk around. The pool at our home became a favorite of a lot of the interns.
If I were not hanging out with the interns, I would work on my decade-old scrapbook journal. I collect wrappers, postcards, stickers, ticket stubs, really anything that could be glued in a book as a memento, and I write about the day. I found this very relaxing for me. It is also so fun to look back at my journal and have these incredible memories.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
Our residence was located in the neighborhood of Nyali in Mombasa. I found this neighborhood very safe.
Our residence consisted of two big buildings with multiple floors and a gate with security 24/7. Every intern had at least one roommate. Our residence had great wifi, a nice living room with a TV and games, and we had a pool outside.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Every future participant should know that they will be pushed outside their comfort zone. If you have that understanding before embarking on your internship, then everything will be smooth sailing.
I think it is also important for individuals to know that the experience as a whole is very safe, and never once did I feel like I was in a dangerous situation.
Overnight in OB-GYN!
Would you recommend your program/provider to others? Why?
Yes, I would recommend my program to others. I think it is so important for future medical professionals to have a realistic view of global healthcare. I think this experience humbles you and makes you grateful.
My experience with International Medical Aid was nothing but incredible. From the accommodations to the staff, the experience at the hospital, and the outreach clinics. I think this experience was invaluable.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
I think the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is expanding your knowledge outside of what is familiar and normal to you. I think doing this is where real growth happens.
Being able to respect and learn about different cultures/beliefs, even if they are different than yours, is extremely important.
I also think this experience crosses over to the medical field. Every day, you will be taking care of people with various backgrounds and beliefs. It is important to know how to treat, listen, and care for individuals who are different than you, and learning how to do it is through connecting with a new place while traveling.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Now that I am home, I have a new gratitude for my privilege. I also have a new passion for the necessity of teaching about healthcare literacy around the world and in rural communities.
My time abroad has taught me that you can form strong bonds in a short amount of time. I also have carried my newfound confidence in asking questions and a willingness to be okay with not knowing the answers.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel, to me, is much more than just sightseeing; it is about shattering the confines of your own "bubble" to embrace new cultures and perspectives.
It is about approaching encounters with an open heart and a willingness to listen to diverse backgrounds and individuals' own unique stories. It means to set aside biases and preconceptions and truly be in another environment outside your comfort zone. I believe this is where the individual change begins.
