Child Family Health International

I am honored to have received a full scholarship for the Global Health program in India from Child Health Family International (CFHI). During two weeks of clinical training at hospitals and research facilities across India, I gained a broader and more in-depth perspective on the healthcare system and the public health challenges the country is currently facing. This was truly a valuable experience—not only in terms of healthcare exposure, but also in understanding the culture and people of a nation characterized by remarkable religious and ethnic diversity. I was deeply impressed by India’s culture, perfectly captured by the phrase “countries within a country.” With a population of over 1.4 billion people and still growing, along with a long and proud history as one of the world’s oldest civilizations, India continuously revealed its richness to me. My time there truly brought this to life, especially through the striking diversity of religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and many others. Indian cuisine, often described as “the kitchen of the world,” also left a strong impression on me. Coming from Vietnam—a country well known for its diverse food culture and rich use of spices—I still had to admit that in India, I encountered countless flavors and combinations that I had never even heard of, let alone experienced before. Indian architecture truly stood out to me. From the marble stones of the Taj Mahal to the grandeur of Agra Fort and the intricate details of Qutb Minar, each structure showcased an extraordinary level of craftsmanship, with carvings so delicate and detailed that they were simply breathtaking.

This previous fall quarter, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Oaxaca, Mexico! I completed an internship with Child Family Health International (CFHI) through their Global Health in Mexico (Oaxaca) program. In Oaxaca de Juárez, I completed a total of 180 hours of clinical rotations at clinics, a hospital, and a rehabilitation center. I visited the following sites: Centro de Salud Urbano No. 1 "Dr. Manuel Martínez Soto,” Hospital General "Dr. Aurelio Valdivieso," Centro de Salud Colonia América, Centro de Salud Tlalixtac de Cabrera, Centro de Salud Urbano 04 Fracc. El Rosario IMSS Bienestar, and Centro de Rehabilitación Infantil Teletón (CRIT). During these rotations, I shadowed medical professionals during general medical consultations, surgical procedures, and physical therapy sessions. I also developed a deeper understanding about systemic barriers within the Mexican healthcare system. Additionally, I visited rural communities in the Sierra Norte, Aguaje del Zapote, and Chacahua. In the Sierra Norte, I learned about traditional medicine from local curanderas and parteras. This is an accessible alternative to allopathic medicine that uses natural remedies from indigenous practices. In Aguaje del Zapote and Chacahua, I learned about Chagas disease and Dengue. I also accompanied Dr. Isabel Saucedo and Don Julio, a vector specialist, to conduct public health inspections in the communities. I also helped deliver presentations about relevant health topics at local primary schools in Puerto Escondido. Being selected as a recipient of the CFHI UC Davis Quarter Abroad Scholarship opened a new door for me. As a first-generation college student, navigating the higher education system can be challenging. This experience reaffirmed that persistence and resilience lead to deeply rewarding opportunities. Studying abroad was a dream come true and a meaningful investment for my future. It has left a profound impact on my academic and professional trajectory, ultimately igniting my interest in pursuing a career in surgery. I am incredibly grateful to the faculty, mentors, and peers who made this such a memorable and transformative experience. Special thanks to Dr. Yvette Flores, Dr. Mónica-Torreiro Casal, Dr. Magaly Chavez, Martha Canseco, and Sandra Rivera.

Visiting Tarija for 2 weeks with CFHI has been one of the most meaningful summer experiences I could have had. Living in a new country, fully immersed in the culture, leads to growth that's difficult to find otherwise. After completing the program, I better understand the health challenges faced outside of the US. I feel more able and inclined to work to resolve them and discuss potential solutions. In addition, I believe I’m better prepared to help immigrants navigate the US health system now that I understand how their experiences with healthcare might differ from those who were born in the US. Overall, the experience helped me be a more well-rounded person and prepared me to serve diverse populations as a physician.