What inspired you to travel abroad?
My decision to go abroad was driven by several factors that sparked a sense of curiosity and opportunity through a rewarding hands-on experience. I wanted to explore outside of my comforts and gain a greater understanding of different cultures, traditions, and ways of life far different than my own. Experiencing new perspectives has always been a source of inspiration for personal growth, and can serve to strengthen my relational abilities.
The opportunity to immerse myself in a different educational and professional environment was a significant motivator. I viewed going abroad as a chance to experience a clinical setting that would enhance my skills and knowledge in ways that are not possible in the United States.
Stepping out of my comfort zone and observing the challenges of living in a foreign country seemed like a powerful catalyst for personal growth. I believe that you can be comfortable or you can be courageous, but you cannot be both. I felt that embracing the unknown would lead to valuable insights and an enriched perspective on life.
Local girls after our Women's Health Clinic where we educated the girls on the menstrual cycle.
Why did you choose International Medical Aid (IMA)?
I choose International Medical Aid (IMA) for an abundance of reasons ranging from their perspective on healthcare and their importance of exploring deep within the cultures of my destination. The program philosophy at IMA is to offer a once-in-a-lifetime physician assistant internship for pre-physician assistant students, students in graduate PA programs, and licensed physician assistants to work in busy international healthcare settings, mentored by staff of dedicated physician assistants, physicians, and other healthcare professionals.
This was a perfect fit as I was a student with a bachelor’s degree in Biology. I appreciated how they were invited to all areas of experience and embraced each intern where they were educationally and professionally. They collaborate with an extensive network of public and private hospitals to provide rewarding hands-on programs specific to the skill sets and educational backgrounds of each intern.
IMA strived to improve the health of underserved individuals in regions that are operated through mobile medical clinics, public health education programs, first responders, and first aid training. I connected with IMA’s holistic approach to care, collaborating with local leaders to develop ethical and sustainable community-led initiatives that address the root causes of disease and illness. I valued IMA’s alumni testimonials greatly as it was reassuring and inspiring to see how many people were drastically moved by this opportunity.
What was your favorite part about your host country/city?
I feel that the relationships we develop are the most valuable and cherished facet of life. One of the greatest highlights of my time in Mombasa was the people I encountered and the relationships I was able to build during the internship.
The community of interns and the friendships I have made are unforgettable. I could not imagine better people to experience this with. We were able to uplift, laugh, cry, and learn with each other as we navigated such an unprecedented journey.
The support the IMA staff provided us is unmatched. Each member brings such value and is beyond considerate and welcoming to the interns. I feel incredibly blessed to have had this opportunity and will always be grateful for their generosity. As for the people of Mombasa, I have never met a culture that is such of service to others.
Although I came across many different people, all from different circumstances, they exuded strength and contentment. To be able to experience a new society and traditions, far different from the one I come from, has broadened my outlook on life. I will carry these relationships and frame of mind as I continue to explore the medical field.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
My experience abroad was made truly extraordinary by the unique blend of cultural immersion and the distinct differences within the healthcare system. The contrast in healthcare systems between Mombasa, and the United States was drastically different, allowing me to witness what under-staffed and overworked healthcare workers were able to accomplish. I was shocked at the burden each hospital worker was responsible for and the lack of reinforcement and resources to support.
I observed a more community-oriented healthcare system that emphasized holistic well-being. Access to healthcare services was often more communal, with a focus on preventive care and community support. This was a departure from the more individualistic and technologically advanced healthcare system I was accustomed to in the United States.
The experience of navigating healthcare in Mombasa provided me with a profound appreciation for the diversity of healthcare practices worldwide. It underscored the importance of understanding cultural nuances in healthcare delivery and the need for flexibility in adapting to different systems. I was able to witness surgeries and consultations that I would normally be prohibited from shadowing in the United States. The nature of my abroad experience was shaped by the eye-opening encounters within the hospital and crafted a sense of appreciation for the resources the United States holds.
This was taken right after we passed out pads and tampons to every girl in the class.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
The IMA staff was exceedingly supportive throughout the entire trip. They were willing to serve in any way possible and prioritized engaging and having a personable relationship with each intern. This relationship started before, during, and after the trip. I was immediately assigned a program mentor once I was accepted into the internship, and have continued to receive follow-up communications after my internship to this day.
The IMA staff ensured our safety, encouraged exploration, and created space for reflection. Within the hospital, we were mentored and taught in all circumstances with such eagerness. Outside of the clinical setting, interns were educated on the culture and traditions of Mombasa.
Shadowing at Coast General Public Hospital was navigated with ease, as the staff helped us observe various departments, surgeries, and consultations. IMA staff organized health clinics and education sessions within the community. As an intern, I was able to attend medical lectures and simulation training, led by IMA staff, discussing topics like insertion of nasogastric tube insertion, basic life support, urinary catheterization, and many other topics within medicine.
Did your program provide specific pre-departure Covid support? If yes, tell us what kind of support you received.
I was advised to get a COVID test before departure and was provided information and updates regarding Mombasa, Kenya's current COVID restrictions. The mentors were available to answer any questions or concerns I had as I prepared for my departure. I took my trip in 2023; therefore, COVID restrictions were not as highly alert.
How did your program help you stay (and feel) safe abroad amidst the ongoing pandemic?
I felt safe for the entirety of the trip and felt I was continuously given the needed support by IMA staff. We were given masks to wear in the hospitals and appropriate sanitary materials for any community outreach clinics held. Upon arrival at the Interns' Residence, we were instructed on the handwashing protocol.
Touring the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital with a group of interns.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
Reflecting on my time abroad, one thing I wish I had done more of was dedicate additional time to learning the local language of Swahili. While I did attempt to pick up common phrases, I realized the immense value it would have added to my experience, both personally and within the hospital. Engaging with locals would have facilitated deeper connections if I had been able to speak Swahili at a greater level. Language is a powerful tool for breaking down cultural barriers and truly understanding the perspectives, stories, and customs of the community.
Within the hospital, knowing Swahili would have enhanced my ability to communicate effectively with patients and healthcare workers. Understanding patient concerns and building trust with the patients would have allowed me to comprehend the medical information exchanged, as well as, knowing the patient’s circumstances better. This would have contributed to a more holistic and patient-centered approach to healthcare delivery. Next time abroad, I will focus beforehand on understanding the language so I can foster genuine connections and enrich cross-cultural experiences.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
As an intern, I typically spent six to eight hours in the hospital and had afternoon downtime for activities and local excursions. Activities and excursions included community medical clinics, public health education programs, cultural education sessions, and exploration of different areas in Mombasa. Interns were welcome to participate in one night shift per week.
Weekends were free for excursions or treks; alternatively, we were welcome to work in the hospital on the weekends. Each day, IMA’s chef would cook local Kenyan food to try and all interns resided in a beautiful residential property, contributing to a sense of community among the interns.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
The interns and I were always eager to explore the local area and spent our free time going to the beaches of Mombasa, nearby markets, and coffee shops, and engaging in supporting the community. We were able to have extraordinary experiences like riding camels on the beach and shopping at local artist vendors.
In addition to these exciting adventures, we were able to give back to the community by organizing a trip to a nearby orphanage. We brought needed goods to the orphanage and were able to engage with the children while there. My free time enriched my experience and allowed me to explore the beautiful culture of Mombasa further.
Me and my fellow interns at the Women's Health Clinic. It was beyond rewarding!
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I was provided with gated housing with 24/7 security. IMA prioritized keeping the interns safe during their stay. We were ensured that we were in the town’s safest area, with easy access to major roads, U.S. embassies, and work assignments. We stayed in modern dormitory-style accommodations with air conditioning, maid service, and laundry service.
Our full-time security team was available to help with off-site trip planning and escorts. We were provided with shared, daily roundtrip transportation to placement sites in addition to arrival/departure airport transfers. Safe, reliable transportation was also available for leisure and personal trips at reasonable rates to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all interns. One of my favorite parts of the accommodations was the chef-prepared meals.
IMA employs chefs from nearby resorts to prepare nutritious local cuisine that is both healthy and delicious. They offered the comforts of home cooking through occasional American fare. They provided three full meals a day and accommodated special nutritional needs. I had multiple fellow interns that were gluten-free and the chefs were always happy to meet special needs. IMA offered unlimited Wi-Fi access from the Program Residences and local cell phones for use during the program.
My favorite part of the accommodations was that the housing allowed interns to connect and build relationships as we navigated this unique and different culture and experience. It created a bond and relational building that was vital in supporting each other through the experience.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
I encourage future participants to come with open hearts and minds, willing to step out of their comfort zones and experience new adventures. Be in the moment as you navigate traveling, experiencing a beautiful culture, opportunity for cherished relationships, and the highs and lows of hospital shadowing. I would advise future participants to leave expectations at home to fully live in the life-changing moments they will soon encounter.
Taking a journal can help document your daily adventures, educational notes, and the emotions that come with every new experience. This will be a valuable tool in looking back at your time abroad and being able to appreciate it.
On one of the many beautiful beaches of Mombasa. I rode the camel with my fellow intern Alexis!
Would you recommend International Medical Aid (IMA) to others? Why?
I would recommend this program to anyone interested in any form of healthcare. This has drastically altered my perspective on my future career and I am far more appreciative of the United States resources. This trip has sparked a calling I have for medical missions and is only the start of the global impact I hope to have.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
I feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the profound personal growth and broadening of one's worldview. Experiencing different cultures, traditions, and ways of life exposes individuals to diverse perspectives and challenges, clarifying any preconceived notions. It fosters a deep appreciation for cultural diversity that can encourage adaptability, and independence through self-discovery, and promote empathy and cultural sensitivity.
By understanding and appreciating the uniqueness of various cultures, I can develop a more open-minded approach to healthcare. This, in turn, facilitates effective communication and collaboration in an increasingly interconnected global society and medical community.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
My trip to Mombasa has equipped me to appreciate, care for, and understand others in a deeper and unparalleled way. Before IMA, I was uncertain where I fit into the medical field, but I have found clarity and feel led to medical missions as I begin to navigate my career as a PA. This was the most rewarding experience I have ever endured and has not just set a foundation for my career but has allowed me to step outside my comforts to become more open-minded in education, medicine, and people.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel means that I can immerse myself in a place other than my own home through purposeful and transformative engagement with the places, people, and cultures encountered along the journey. It is an intentional and mindful approach to exploration that seeks to create lasting memories, create genuine connections, and contribute positively to my worldview. I feel that every travel opportunity is a chance to learn.
Learning can come in all different forms and is not necessarily just educating myself on my surroundings. It can go beyond factual growth, but inner development as I understand myself better in a global context.
