What inspired you to travel abroad?
I chose to travel to Kenya because I wanted to experience a healthcare system that was very different from what I was used to in North America and push myself beyond my comfort zone. I was interested in learning how healthcare workers deal with cultural diversity, accessibility, and resource constraints.
I was introduced to creative problem-solving methods during my internship at International Medical Aid (IMA), where physicians and nurses delivered first-rate patient care despite having little infrastructure and medical supplies. This adaptability and tenacity changed my thoughts about healthcare worldwide and reaffirmed my love for nursing.
My appreciation for the riches and privileges in developed nations also grew throughout my stay in Kenya. It was eye-opening to witness patients suffer because there was insufficient access to cheap healthcare or to travel long distances for essential medical care. It caused me to consider my duty as a future nurse — to promote fair access to healthcare and look for solutions to close these gaps.
Grateful for the incredible team at IMA who made this experience unforgettable #IMA
Why did you choose International Medical Aid (IMA)?
International Medical Aid's planned, practical approach to clinical training is one of the reasons I chose their pre-nursing program. In contrast to other shadowing programs, IMA offered chances to watch and participate in patient care firsthand while being supervised by qualified medical professionals.
Another noteworthy aspect of the program was its dedication to moral volunteerism, ensuring interns stayed within their areas of expertise while accumulating valuable experience. Furthermore, my interests and IMA's emphasis on global health education matched.
Along with clinical contact, the program offered cultural immersion through historical lectures, Swahili lessons, and guidance from regional medical experts. I gained a broader perspective of healthcare beyond clinical practice thanks to this well-rounded training, which included socioeconomic determinants of health, public health, and intercultural communication.
What was your favorite part about Mombasa, Kenya?
Mombasa, Kenya, swiftly rose to the top of my list of favorite destinations. The city is a stunning fusion of spectacular scenery, a thriving culture, and an extensive history.
I was fascinated by the vibrant spice and wood-carving markets where craftspeople displayed their goods. There were countless options to enjoy the coastal beauties, which included the historic Old Town and turquoise beaches.
The friendliness and kindness of the locals were more notable than the landscape. Everyone was friendly and willing to share their culture, whether it was the hospital personnel, my mentors, or the locals I encountered in casual conversations.
I had an incredibly memorable time in Mombasa because of this sense of community.
From classroom to dance floor! #DancingThroughLife #UnforgettableMoments #IMA
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
My time overseas was remarkable because of the hospitals and clinical experience. I saw and studied a variety of diseases that are uncommon in North America, including severe malnutrition, complex cellulitis, and malaria.
Seeing a small child who was severely malnourished was one of the most powerful experiences. Her situation was a clear reminder of how social circumstances and healthcare are intertwined.
I also had the chance to help at free medical camps, watch many C-sections, participate in hospital rounds, and learn about emergency care procedures, including the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS).
The commitment of medical professionals, who put in endless hours despite little resources, especially touched me. It was admirable how creatively they could give care with fewer resources.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
The local employees were very helpful in ensuring that my visit was enjoyable and fulfilling. The workers at the IMA residence always made us feel welcome, cooked delicious meals, and kept the place tidy. Because of their generosity and consideration, it was genuinely a home away from home.
The physicians and nurses at the hospital provided us with exceptional guidance. They encouraged us to ask questions, let us watch procedures, and took the time to clarify complicated medical problems. Their guidance greatly influenced my clinical knowledge and career development.
Teaching the next generation the power of handwashing with IMA! #CleanHandsSaveLives #IMA
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
The things I wish I had done differently were journaling every day and taking more photos. Even though I recorded significant events, I now see that having more visual recollections would have allowed me to relive the event.
In hindsight, I regret not documenting the medical facilities, cultural encounters, friendships, and stunning locations I saw in more detail.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
In Kenya, a typical day begins around 7:00 in the morning, with breakfast at the IMA home before heading to the hospital. We spent the mornings learning about different medical issues, shadowing doctors, and going on patient rounds.
I got varied clinical experience by switching between departments daily, including emergency medicine, surgery, and OBGYN. Cultural immersion activities included visiting historical places, learning Swahili, and attending guest lectures about Kenya's healthcare system in the afternoons.
We would go home for evening dinner, play games, have debriefings, or unwind with other interns. I occasionally worked midnight shifts at the emergency room, which was a demanding but worthwhile experience.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
In my spare time, I enjoyed discovering Mombasa's rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty. On numerous mornings, I strolled down the shore, enjoying the peaceful environment.
As a great opportunity to fully immerse myself in the culture, I also loved visiting local eateries to sample real Swahili food. I loved spending time with my other interns, whether simply thinking back on our experiences, playing games, or exchanging stories.
One of our favorite experiences was going to an orphanage, where we played with the kids and gave them hygiene lessons.
Unwinding after a busy day with lots of laughs! #IMAHouse #MakingMemories
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
In Mombasa, I stayed at the primary IMA residence, a large home with a dining area, kitchen, patio, and several bedrooms. My room featured air conditioning, bunk beds, and a place to store my things.
The welcoming, social atmosphere was my favorite feature of the accommodation. We had common spaces, which let me connect with other interns, and the staff ensured we were comfortable.
It was the perfect place to stay because it was convenient and safe, and you could eat home-cooked meals there.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Future participants should know that there's no need to be nervous! This curriculum's design maximizes both clinical education and cultural exposure.
The best way to make the most of every encounter is to ask questions, interact with the doctors, keep an open mind throughout, and enjoy everything in the process.
Would you recommend International Medical Aid (IMA) to others? Why?
Of course! IMA is a well-run program that offers cultural experiences, practical clinical exposure, and guidance from medical experts.
It finds the ideal balance between education, discovery, and self-improvement. This experience would be highly beneficial to anyone thinking about a healthcare career.
Going to teach the power of dental hygiene — fun and important! #HealthyHabits #ToothTime
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The most significant benefit of international travel is broadening one's perspective on life and showing oneself that anything can be enjoyed alone.
Immersed in a new healthcare system and culture, I learned resilience, adaptation, and cultural sensitivity. I have gained experiences, friendships, and lessons that will last a lifetime.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
My perspective on healthcare and global disparities has significantly changed due to my stay abroad. It has increased my passion for helping underprivileged communities and reinforced my determination to combat disparities in healthcare.
It also increased my desire to work as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) and promote patient-centered care globally.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
In my opinion, meaningful travel is about learning, developing, and forming relationships rather than just taking in the scenery. It's about venturing into new areas, accepting difficulties, and coming home with a new perspective.
That is precisely why my trip to Kenya changed me personally and professionally.
