What inspired you to go abroad?
Although I was born and raised in Canada, I have a strong Japanese background, and through numerous trips to Japan, I developed an early appreciation for viewing the world through different cultural and systemic perspectives.
Shaped further by growing up in Canada’s multicultural society, I have always maintained a global outlook that motivated me to step outside my comfort zone and immerse myself in a new culture and country.
I was particularly driven by a genuine interest in gaining clinical exposure in developing countries, especially in Africa, to better understand the challenges faced by healthcare systems and to learn how medicine is practiced differently.
Why did you choose International Medical Aid?
Coast General teaching and referral hospital
I chose this program after carefully reviewing International Medical Aid’s online presence, particularly their Instagram page. The photos highlighting past students’ experiences and the story videos showcasing a typical day and overall program structure gave me a realistic and transparent view of what participation would involve.
Since the program required a significant financial investment, seeing authentic experiences and daily activities helped me feel confident that this program aligned with my expectations and learning goals more than other available options.
What was your favorite part about Kenya?
My favorite part about Kenya was experiencing the kindness, generosity, and compassion of the local community. Whether interacting with tour guides, residence staff, clinical mentors, or patients, I was struck by how welcoming and supportive everyone was, even in the face of challenges.
This warmth, combined with the cultural and clinical immersion, made my experience truly unforgettable.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
Local Beach
There is no other place where you can truly witness and deeply understand the emotional strength, empathy, and resilience of both patients and healthcare providers, especially in cases affected by limited resources and low healthcare literacy.
Interacting with patients at the hospital, I experienced firsthand their kindness, generosity, and compassion despite the challenges they face. This made the program unforgettable and is an experience I will carry with me into my medical career.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
From the moment I arrived, the local staff and program mentor ensured I felt safe, supported, and welcomed, particularly within the program residence. The accommodations were comfortable and secure, well-organized.
Cultural treks and team-bonding activities organized by the staff fostered a strong sense of community among interns and mentors while deepening my appreciation of Kenyan culture.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
During my clinical rotation, I wish I had spent more time reviewing my notes each day, especially when I struggled to understand certain medical terminology and their underlying significance. This would have allowed me to ask more in-depth questions the next day and apply my knowledge more effectively.
At the same time, I wish I had participated in more social events with fellow interns. Striking a better balance between focused learning and engaging socially would have made my experience even more rewarding.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
View from Fort Jesus
A typical day abroad in my program began early in the morning with clinical exposure at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital, where I spent approximately five hours observing patient care and clinical workflows.
In the afternoons, I participated in program-organized activities such as debriefing sessions or community outreach, including visits to local public schools to provide hygiene education. On days without scheduled afternoon activities, I used my free time to explore the local city and spend time with my colleagues.
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
During my free time abroad, I most enjoyed spending time with my colleagues, who came from diverse cultural and national backgrounds. Whether it was having lighthearted conversations, playing cards, or sharing stories about ourselves and our shared goal of pursuing careers in healthcare, these moments fostered strong connections.
I also enjoyed exploring the city through shopping malls and visiting local restaurants for dinner or dessert.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
During my clinical rotations, I was provided with flexible accommodations that allowed me to tailor my schedule to align with my clinical interests, including the opportunity to participate in night shifts.
I greatly appreciated the program’s willingness to adjust these arrangements so I could gain the most meaningful and hands-on learning experience possible. In addition, accommodations were thoughtfully organized for all residents, including consideration of our dietary preferences.
Being asked which cuisines we enjoyed made the experience feel welcoming and inclusive, and I especially enjoyed exploring Kenyan cuisine.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Personally, even just looking at the program’s Instagram can give a good sense of what to expect.
Future participants should come open-minded and ready to engage with new people. During clinical rotations, it may be challenging at first, as some doctors or nurses may not provide guidance immediately. However, if you approach them respectfully and show genuine interest, they are willing to teach and share their knowledge.
Would you recommend Global Health & Pre-Medicine Internships to others? Why?
Absolutely!! This program provided an environment where I truly grew as a person, both professionally and personally.
The clinical exposure helped guide me toward a clearer academic and career trajectory in contributing to global healthcare, while also allowing me to develop empathy, resilience, and a deeper cultural understanding.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
Mombasa Cultural Centre
The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and experience different cultures, healthcare systems, and ways of life. It fosters personal growth, adaptability, and cultural awareness, while also providing unique professional experiences that broaden your perspective and strengthen your skills for a global career.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
My time abroad has had a profound impact on how I view the world, strengthening my empathy, resilience, and cultural awareness.
Recalling the experiences I had, even visually in my mind, continually reminds me of how much it shaped me. Staying in touch with fellow interns also allows me to maintain the camaraderie we built, which continues to enrich my personal and professional growth.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel, to me, is more than seeing new places—it’s about immersing yourself in the local culture, learning from the people you meet, and gaining perspectives that challenge and expand your worldview. It’s about connecting with others, understanding their experiences, and returning home with insights that shape how you think, act, and contribute to the world.
