Child Family Health International

I joined the CFHI Program, Global Health in the Philippines for 4 weeks, during the month of July, 2026 and I received the Friends of the Philippines scholarship. To be able to join a program such as this was an honor for me. It was a wonderful journey, with a great group of people to be with. CFHI has provided plenty for us during the course of the program and made sure that we were able to soak in the Philippines' beauty, culture, and healthcare. As a Filipino, I appreciate how we got to share our first-hand experiences to our companions from abroad. One of the students with us was also studying medicine, and we appreciated how we were using almost the same materials for our respective degrees. It did not matter whether she was studying in the US, or we were studying in the Philippines, although some information might be tweaked, for example, for diseases endemic to our countries. The girls we were with for the program were just the loveliest of people to be with, along with the local communities that we went to for the program. Our group went to the municipality of Torrijos in Marinduque. During our stay at the municipality, we were not only exposed to the RHU (Rural Health Unit), but because they had an ongoing Barangay Caravan, we also were able to explore different places in the municipality. As an aspiring physician here in the Philippines, it was a great experience to be able to shadow local doctors in the area, knowing that I would be doing the same thing in the future. We got tips on how to talk to patients, how to interact with the locals, and most importantly, how to handle medicine in areas far from the capital. It was a sad realization to hear that the municipality lacked equipment for crucial diagnosis, but we knew that the doctors there are doing their best of their capabilities to provide care for the people despite the disadvantage. Dr. Gellie Ocampo, our local preceptor made sure that we were well taken care of while we were staying there at the island. Ma'am Joan Azares, and her daughter Marnie Azares took us in as guests at their house, and they could not have been more hospitable. To them, we are most grateful for ensuring that we have a roof above our heads and meals to eat that they so lovingly prepared. Before we even got to the island, Ma'am Anabelle Rioflorido made sure that we were safe on the journey from Manila to the homestay in Marinduque. Finally, I would also like to share my gratitude to Dr. Paulo Medina, and Ms. Mae for making sure that the whole program would be smooth and there would not be any mishaps. I am just so immensely happy to be able to participate in such a program, and I hope CFHI is able to continue giving scholarships for deserving students to get in the program. All the best for Child Family Health International!

In addition to global health exposure, my experience in Ecuador also involved a Spanish language component with Latino Schools, which offers one of the most effective ways to learn Spanish through a combination of classroom instruction and full cultural immersion. The teachers made the classroom experience enjoyable through fun and interactive activities. Students are placed with welcoming host families who invite them into their homes and make them feel like part of the family while encouraging them to practice speaking Spanish in everyday situations. By the end of the program, I was able to understand much more Spanish than before, and I plan to continue practicing with my friends and utilize my new language skills. Thank you, CFHI and Latino schools

Choosing to participate the CFHI global health program was one of the best decisions I made. Shadowing physicians in Ecuador gave me a deeper appreciation for their universal healthcare system, which utilizes three different models to deliver healthcare to its citizens. Seeing these intertwined systems helped me appreciate the strengths and challenges of each model and their role in creating accessible and sustainable healthcare for all communities. I learned from dedicated preceptors who emphasized compassion, patient education, and, in my case, great mentorship. They made sure to communicate effectively despite the language barrier and to explain their thought processes during patient encounters. I am grateful for CFHI, and I hope to collaborate with you all again in the future.

Choosing CFHI for a global health experience was the best decision I could have made for my personal and professional growth. The cultural exchange aspect of the program was profoundly impactful. Living and learning within the community allowed me to understand that healthcare is inseparable from culture. Interacting with the local population and learning from the incredible healthcare workers on the ground taught me the true meaning of cultural humility. From navigating daily routines to observing patient care, I learned how to connect with people holistically. As an aspiring clinician, I have found that this internship has given me an invaluable foundation for providing compassionate, culturally competent care to diverse patient populations in the future.

I attended the 4-week Global Health in the Philippines Program under CFHI from May 23, 2026 to June 20, 2026. This opportunity was also made possible through a scholarship from Friends of the Philippines, for which I am eternally grateful. For a little context, I’m a Health Sciences graduate from the Philippines, so I’m already relatively familiar with our country’s political, social, economic, and public health landscape. Even so, my experience with CFHI proved that every space I step into is an opportunity for growth and learning – even if it’s in a country I’ve lived in my whole life. The program was divided into two parts: an urban exposure (1 week) and a rural immersion (3 weeks). During the urban exposure, we began by touring historical landmarks around Manila, the country’s capital, and took a deep dive into Philippine history. Afterwards, we traveled to the Municipality of Ternate in Cavite, where we visited the Rural Health Unit and all 10 barangay health stations in a single day. We also toured several tertiary hospitals, including Philippine General Hospital (the country's largest public hospital), St. Luke’s BGC (one of the country's leading private hospitals), and Quiapo Memorial Medical Center (a local community “hospital”). This urban component was thoughtfully structured to provide students with a strong foundation before entering the island immersion. We first understood the country's historical context, then explored its primary healthcare system through the barangay health stations and Rural Health Unit, before progressing to the varying realities of tertiary healthcare. The entire experience was incredibly organized, and I considered it an essential foundation before beginning the rural portion of the program. For the rural immersion, we were assigned to Carabao Island, an isolated municipality composed of five barangays with a population of around 12,000 residents. We shadowed the Municipal Health Officer, who also served as the island’s only primary care physician. Our internship was both structured and spontaneous, making the experience feel authentic and reflective of real-world practice. It was structured because we had scheduled visits to different barangay health stations throughout the week, allowing us to complete clinical rotations across all five barangays. At the same time, it was spontaneous because our daily activities depended largely on the island's ongoing health programs and community needs. During our rotation, we participated in cervical cancer screenings, ultrasound consultations, PhilHealth YAKAP registrations, anti-rabies vaccinations, family planning services, well-baby clinic immunizations, insertion and removal of contraceptive implants, planning for a Nanay-to-Nanay peer support program on nutrition, and many other community-based health initiatives. We were also entrusted with leading patient history-taking under the guidance of our preceptor, which allowed us to build meaningful conversations with residents while applying our understanding of the social determinants of health to better appreciate the context behind their health conditions. Unlike the urban exposure, much of what we learned during the rural immersion depended on how deeply we allowed ourselves to become part of the community – how curious we were about the local health situation, and how observant we were of the island's environmental, social, and cultural context. Personally, that became both the greatest challenge and reward. The lessons were rarely spoon-fed to us. Rather, they had to be intentionally sought out. Fortunately, the local health team was among the most welcoming and accommodating groups of people I have ever met. Because of them, I left the internship having learned and grown far beyond what I could have imagined. I am incredibly grateful to the entire CFHI team for giving me the opportunity to experience my own country through a different lens and for helping shape me not only as an aspiring healthcare professional but also as a human. I entered this internship hoping to gain experience and exposure, but I left with a deeper passion for global and public health and a much clearer vision of the kind of physician I aspire to become. If I could do it all over again, I absolutely would. But today, I know the best way to honor this life-changing experience is to carry its lessons with me as I move forward in my journey toward becoming a physician.🩺 [Additional] Outside of our internship, we also made the most of our weekends by exploring Carabao Island and its neighboring islands. We joined a 5 km fun run, went parasailing and cliff jumping, completed an 18 km bike ride, played pickleball, and experienced so much more. Those side-quests made the program even more memorable, reminding me that some of the best connections and lessons happen outside the workspace as well.

I had the opportunity to intern for the Child Family Health International (CFHI) Global Health in the Philippines Program under the Friends of the Philippines Scholarship. This experience was an extremely eye-opening immersion into the Philippine Health System. Our program started off in Manila, the Philippine capital. We observed and learned about the various tiers of health systems in the city, including the highly-regarded public Philippine General Hospital, private St. Luke’s Medical Center, and local Quiapo Medical Center. We even took a day trip to Cavite, a more rural community close to Manila where we were introduced to the healthcare system within rural communities in the Philippines. I found this introduction to the Philippines valuable prior to our journey on the San Jose island as it provided cultural context and awareness, along with a baseline comparison of how health systems functioned within the mainland. Then began our program on the island of San Jose in the Romblon province. Here, we stayed in a lodge within Poblacion, the main barangay (or small village) in the island. For the next few days/weeks, we interned at the San Jose Rural Health Unit (RHU) underneath the Municipal Health Officer (MHO), who was also the only primary care doctor on the island with a population of over 12,000. We experienced clinic days within the RHU, where the doctor would communicate, assess, diagnose, and prescribe treatments to various patient complaints. The doctor involved us in the clinic by supervising our own health history interviews and discussing various symptoms with their corresponding diagnoses and treatments. The RHU was also heavily involved in family planning, prenatal care, animal bite treatment, and dental care, so we were able to observe ultrasounds, birth control injectables, baby vaccinations, anti-rabies injections, etc. I was happily surprised by the organization of the health system on this island. They offered various free services to the people, including health assessments, basic screenings and lab tests (i.e. cervical cancer screenings, urine and blood sugar tests, H&H labs, etc.), and commonly-needed medications (i.e. antihypertensives, diabetes, tuberculosis, etc.). In a lot of ways, I found their system more organized and accessible than from where I come from! The doctor and local government were passionate about providing accessible and equitable care to the entire community. This routine would continue throughout the week in various Barangay Health Units, or smaller and more accessible sectors of the RHU. On weekdays, we were able to enjoy life on and around the island. We visited Boracay beach (one of the world’s most beautiful beaches) , ran a 5K marathon together, biked around the entire San Jose Island, went caving and cliff jumping, sang karaoke, and explored Kalibo, a city within the mainland. Everywhere we went, we were welcomed by the people and the community and were encouraged to immerse ourselves within the culture. We ate Filipino food, participated in the weekly flag raising ceremony, and watched the procession of Flores de Mayo, a May Festival devotion to the Virgin Mary. Overall, I found this program to be an amazing immersion to learn, observe, and experience the Philippine Health System through various settings and sectors, while also involving ourselves with the Philippine people and culture. Each part of this program felt very genuine and purposeful in providing a holistic and well-rounded learning/immersion experience. The local preceptors and coordinators were more than accommodating and talented in not only planning this program, but also teaching and encouraging us and being responsive to all our questions and ideas. I would do it all over again if I could!

I signed up for the CFHI Durban program in April 2026, and honestly, it felt like stepping into a whole new world. Forget the dry program descriptions—this was real life, full of warmth, culture, and a few surprises along the way. My homestay with the Siwela family was unforgettable. Picture evenings filled with indigenous meals, laughter, and stories that made me feel like part of the family. I didn’t just learn about Zulu traditions—I lived them. And in the clinics, I saw doctors who didn’t just treat patients, but truly knew them. Their empathy and non‑discriminatory approach was inspiring, and it reminded me why I chose medicine in the first place. Of course, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. My exams back home shuffled around, so I arrived late and had to play catch‑up. But CFHI staff were absolute lifesavers, helping me settle in quickly. If anything, I’d say clearer orientation materials for late arrivals would make things even better. Overall, this program gave me more than just clinical exposure—it gave me perspective. It was about health, yes, but also about justice, equity, and community. If you’re looking for an experience that challenges you, feeds you (literally and figuratively), and leaves you with stories worth telling, CFHI Durban is it.

I signed up for the CFHI Durban program in April 2026, and honestly, it felt like stepping into a whole new world. Forget the dry program descriptions: this was real life, full of warmth, culture, and a few surprises along the way. My homestay with the Siwela family was unforgettable. Picture evenings filled with indigenous meals, laughter, and stories that made me feel like part of the family. I didn’t just learn about Zulu traditions—I lived them. And in the clinics, I saw doctors who didn’t just treat patients, but truly knew them. Their empathy and non‑discriminatory approach was inspiring, and it reminded me why I chose medicine in the first place. Of course, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. My exams back home shuffled around, so I arrived late and had to play catch‑up, but CFHI team were absolute lifesavers, helping me settle in quickly. If anything, I’d say clearer orientation materials for late arrivals would make things even better. Overall, this program gave me more than just clinical exposure—it gave me perspective. It was about health, yes, but also about justice, equity, and community. If you’re looking for an experience that challenges you, feeds you (literally and figuratively), and leaves you with stories worth telling, CFHI Durban is it.

As a fourth-year medical student in the US, the CFHI Virtual Global & Public Health Internship – India was exactly the kind of experience I had been looking for to expand my understanding of health systems beyond the clinical settings I am accustomed to. The live sessions with India-based public health professionals brought real depth to topics I thought I understood from textbooks, things like infectious disease burden, sanitation gaps, and community-level intervention, and hearing about them directly from people doing the work on the ground reframed how I think about health systems entirely. What made the program stand out even further was the inclusion of personal and professional development, and Hindi language lessons, something I did not expect and found genuinely enriching, since being able to connect even a little with the language added a layer of cultural immersion that you rarely get from a virtual program. The program structure moved at a good pace, the CFHI team was responsive whenever I had questions, and the small group discussions with other participants pushed my thinking in directions I did not expect. What stayed with me most was the shift in how I understand cultural humility, not as a competency to check off, but as something that has to be actively practiced every time you step into a health context that is not your own. I plan to pursue global health as part of my career, and this program clarified what that actually means in practice. I would recommend it to any medical student who wants to move beyond the US health system.

During my 4 weeks in Oaxaca, I spent 2 weeks at Hospital Civil where I had the opportunity to rotate through the emergency department, labor and delivery, and the operating room. Each setting offered valuable learning and exposed me to a wide range of clinical scenarios in a resource limited environment. In the emergency department, I observed the management of acute conditions and gained insight into rapid clinical decision making. In labor and delivery, I was able to participate in patient care during critical and emotional moments, which reinforced the importance of compassionate, patient centered care. In the operating room, I observed surgical procedures and developed a deeper understanding of teamwork and technique. The local physicians and staff were incredibly welcoming and committed to teaching. They made a strong effort to include us in patient care and explain their clinical reasoning, creating a supportive and engaging learning environment. In addition to my clinical experience, my time in Oaxaca was shaped in meaningful ways outside of the hospital. Living with a host family gave me a genuine look into daily life and culture in a way that you simply can’t get as a visitor. From sharing meals to everyday conversations, I felt welcomed and supported, which made the experience feel much more personal. The language school was another highlight. It helped me build confidence in my Spanish and gave me a supportive space to improve my communication skills. That growth extended beyond the classroom and helped me feel more connected overall. Outside of structured activities, I also had the opportunity to experience Oaxaca’s culture through its food, traditions, and strong sense of community. These experiences added depth to my time there and reminded me how important cultural understanding is in both life and medicine.

Visiting Quito changed me in ways I did not expect. As a new Spanish speaker, I experienced immense kindness, patience, and generosity from those around me as I navigated a new language and culture. Being in that vulnerable position helped me better understand what it feels like to acclimate to a foreign society and rely on the compassion of others. Through this experience, I truly learned what it means to let the world change you. The hospitality and grace I was shown opened my eyes to the importance of extending the same empathy and support to others who find themselves in unfamiliar environments. I am deeply grateful for the people who welcomed me so warmly, and I will carry those lessons with me and share that kindness with others for the rest of my life. Ecuador is a beautiful country and a paradise for nature lovers. During my visit, I had the incredible opportunity to hike my first active volcano. It was an unforgettable experience and just one example of the many adventures available for those who are open to trying new things. Ecuador offers endless opportunities to explore and step outside your comfort zone. Keep an open mind and you may discover something truly amazing. Thank you CFHI for this wonderful experience!

My experience in the Philippines has been nothing short of transformative. From the very beginning in Manila to my time in the rural community of Alabat, this rotation provided an গভ গভ (fix) → (remove glitch) incredibly rich and well-rounded understanding of Filipino healthcare, culture, and community. The program thoughtfully combined historical and clinical learning, giving us the foundation to truly understand the structure of healthcare in the Philippines. From exploring national history and visiting major institutions like the Philippine General Hospital and St. Luke’s, to observing care in rural health units and barangay health stations, every experience built on the last in a meaningful way. What made this experience especially impactful was the opportunity to actively engage with patients and healthcare workers. The RHU teams were incredibly welcoming, supportive, and eager to teach. They created an environment where we could both learn and contribute, whether through patient interaction, observing public health programs, or participating in community outreach. One of the most rewarding aspects of my time was building connections within the community. As I developed my Tagalog skills, even simple phrases helped foster more meaningful interactions with patients. I’ll never forget a moment when I was able to help connect a community member to cervical cancer screening services after an organic conversation outside the clinic—an experience that truly highlighted the power of communication, trust, and community-based care. Beyond the clinical setting, the warmth and generosity of the Filipino people made this experience unforgettable. I was welcomed not just as a student, but as a guest and a member of the community. Whether it was sharing meals, singing karaoke, or simply spending time together, there was a deep sense of connection and joy in everyday moments. The spirit of “Mabuhay”—a genuine culture of welcome and hospitality—was something I felt throughout my entire stay. This rotation deepened my understanding of global health, strengthened my cultural humility, and reinforced the importance of community-centered care. It is an experience that has left a lasting impact on both my personal and professional growth. I am incredibly grateful for the relationships I built, the lessons I learned, and the perspective I gained. I would highly recommend this program to any student seeking a meaningful, immersive, and impactful global health experience.

I feel incredibly lucky to have had the opportunity to participate in CFHI’s Global Health Program in Durban. I spent most of my time in the internal medicine wards where I saw a wide range of patient presentations, including patients with end-stage AIDS, TB, hypertension, oncologic conditions, and neurologic pathologies. I learned directly from the house staff and faculty on the ward and also had the opportunity to attend journal clubs and Morbidity & Mortality conferences. A particular highlight was being the first person to see a patient who was coming in with headache and chest pain and presenting her to the medical officer! Outside of the hospital, I had the opportunity to learn more about South African history and culture as well as visit the beautiful beaches, cities, and mountains of the province! I left the program even more dedicated to advocating for patients and to building a career focused on advancing global health equity!

I participated in a two-week Global Health program in the Philippines through the Child Family Health International and found both the on-the-ground experience and the administrative support to be exceptional. The program was thoughtfully structured and provided a meaningful introduction to the culture, history, and healthcare system of the Philippines. Through a mix of educational sessions and site visits, we gained insight into how historical, cultural, and social factors shape health beliefs and medical practice across different healthcare settings. A particularly impactful part of the experience was spending time in a rural community where we observed local health clinics and community health initiatives. The healthcare professionals were incredibly welcoming and eager to share their experiences, helping us understand how care is delivered in resource-limited settings and how strong relationships with the community support better health outcomes. From an administrative perspective, the program staff were consistently responsive and supportive both before and during the program, ensuring everything ran smoothly for participants. Overall, learning about the Philippine healthcare system from its historical foundations to its real-world practice was a rewarding and eye-opening experience. I would highly recommend this program to medical students interested in global health and in learning how healthcare is practiced in different parts of the world.

Participating in the CFHI Global Health in the Philippines program was one of the most grounding and intellectually honest learning experiences I have had in my public health training. Rather than positioning global health as something to “do” to communities, this program teaches you how to observe, listen, and understand systems in context—and that distinction matters. The program began in Manila, where our learning was intentionally framed around history, politics, and structure before any clinical exposure. This was critical. Through site visits, discussions, and guided reflections, I gained a deeper understanding of how the Philippine health system functions within a decentralized governance model, how colonial legacies continue to shape health delivery, and why disparities between public and private care persist. These conversations were not superficial; they asked us to confront uncomfortable realities about financing, access, and trust in health institutions. For someone pursuing public health at the graduate level, this systems-level grounding was invaluable. What stood out immediately was CFHI’s ethical clarity. The program is explicit about scope, responsibility, and humility. Observation is not framed as passivity, but as a discipline—one that requires restraint, respect, and accountability. CFHI’s principle of “If you wouldn’t be allowed to do it at home, don’t do it here” may sound simple, but it profoundly shaped how I approached every interaction. It created space to learn without centering myself, and to value the expertise of local health workers rather than treating communities as training grounds. The remote island placement further deepened this learning. Being based in a Rural Health Unit made it clear that healthcare delivery in resource-limited settings is not just about scarcity—it is about coordination, relationships, and community trust. I observed how Barangay Health Workers, nurses, midwives, and physicians function as an integrated system, often carrying multiple roles out of necessity. Care here is not siloed. It is relational, adaptive, and deeply human. What I found most powerful was witnessing how much of the health system’s strength rests on people who are often invisible in traditional medical narratives. Barangay Health Workers are not auxiliary; they are foundational. They bridge households and clinics, policy and practice, prevention and care. Watching them work reshaped how I think about primary health care and community-based systems—not as “alternatives,” but as essential. CFHI also creates space for reflection, not just observation. Structured debriefs encouraged us to interrogate what we were seeing: Why are services organized this way? What constraints are structural versus political? What solutions are realistic, and who should lead them? These conversations reinforced that global health is not about quick fixes or heroic interventions. It is about patience, systems thinking, and long-term commitment. Beyond the formal learning, the warmth and generosity of the communities we lived among left a lasting impression. Hospitality was not performative; it was genuine. Daily life—shared meals, conversations, quiet moments after clinic hours—became part of the learning. These experiences reminded me that health does not exist in isolation from culture, family, and place. This program did not give me answers—it sharpened my questions. It reaffirmed that meaningful global health work begins with humility, ethical boundaries, and respect for local expertise. CFHI does an exceptional job of modeling what responsible global health education should look like. I would highly recommend this program to students and professionals who are serious about understanding health systems, equity, and ethical engagement. If you are looking for an experience that will challenge your assumptions, deepen your perspective, and stay with you long after you return home, this program will do exactly that.

My global health elective with CFHI was one of the most meaningful and transformative experiences of my medical training. Over the course of four weeks in Accra, Ghana, I was given the opportunity to engage deeply with healthcare delivery through a local lens, one that emphasized adaptability, resourcefulness, and community-centered care. What stood out most was CFHI’s intentional approach to ethical global health engagement. Rather than positioning students as observers detached from the system, CFHI fostered thoughtful learning grounded in humility, cultural context, and mutual respect. The clinical exposure was complemented by discussions facilitated by experienced local clinicians that challenged me to critically compare healthcare systems, reflect on structural inequities, and better understand how social determinants shape patient outcomes. Additionally, the staff and preceptors at my placement site, Princess Marie Louise Children’s hospital were exceptional. They were generous with their time, knowledge, and mentorship. They went above and beyond to ensure that learning was both clinically rich, contextual and ethically grounded. Through their guidance, I gained not only clinical insight but also a deeper appreciation for practicing medicine in settings where creativity and collaboration are essential. As someone originally from Ghana and now training in the United States, this experience was particularly meaningful. It allowed me to reconnect with my roots while also reshaping how I envision my future as a physician committed to global health, equity, and service. CFHI did not simply provide an elective; it provided a space for growth, reflection, and rediscovery of purpose. I am profoundly grateful for the scholarship support that made this experience possible and for CFHI’s commitment to responsible, immersive global health education. This elective will continue to influence how I practice medicine long after my training.

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.

My CFHI elective in Bolivia was one of the most meaningful parts of my medical training so far. I rotated through surgery, primary care, infectious disease, and psychiatry. Each showed how medicine is practiced when resources are limited in a country with a completely different health system than in the US. The CFHI team was responsive throughout the whole process (before, during, and after) and the local team was extremely supportive and flexible. The medical coordinator went so far to coordinate a new rotation for me when I asked to rotate with a psychiatrist. This was especially meaningful, as I was able to connect with patients and learn from physicians in my preferred specialty. The local team also helped me organize weekend trips to other parts of the country or locally, such as the Uyuni Salt Flats. I walked to clinic almost every morning, which is something I love about Tarija. At midday I went home for almuerzo with my host family. Being able to live with a family added a rich layer to the experience as well—they made me feel like part of the family, exchanged life experiences with me, and we have remained in contact since I left. My Spanish classes were unique and significantly improved my confidence in the language. We discussed Bolivian history and culture, reviewed grammar, medical Spanish, differences between U.S. and Bolivian medical care, Chagas prevention, toured museums, and even visited a folk medicine ‘curandero’ to learn about traditional healing practices. Something that stood out to me about CFHI is that the program addresses the history of global health. They talk openly about how the field has been shaped by colonization, racism, and elitism, and how those patterns still show up now. They also shared how they actively counter this in their organization with concrete examples. Overall, this elective pushed me to think more deeply about health systems, culture, and communication. It made me more comfortable caring for diverse patients and reminded me why cultural humility is essential. I’m grateful I had the chance to learn from local clinicians, families, and patients, and I’ll carry these lessons with me into my training and future work. I hope to return to Bolivia one day and find ways to participate in global health as a resident physician.