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<h2>What inspired you to travel abroad?</h2>
<p>Initially, my decision to go abroad stemmed from a desire to expand my clinical knowledge and gain hands-on experience in a healthcare setting. I was eager to immerse myself in a different culture, witness healthcare practices in resource-limited environments, and contribute to underserved communities. Growing up in the U.S., I had always heard about global health disparities, but I wanted to see them first-hand, believing this experience would help me grow as a future physician. My motivation was simple: to learn, help, and explore. However, my time in Kenya profoundly reshaped these motivations, offering me a deeper understanding of healthcare and exposing the ‘bubble’ I had been living in. On my first day in a village, I took blood pressure and directed patients to further testing. I felt a sense of accomplishment, believing I was making a meaningful impact. However, as the days went on, that initial sense of purpose was overshadowed by a growing awareness of the systemic barriers these communities faced. I witnessed patients unable to afford even basic care, such as a man with a broken hand who had waited months to save enough for treatment. In the Accident and Emergency Theater, I saw a young woman with HIV pass away due to an overworked staff. In the ICU, I saw a burn victim who was burned on an underdeveloped power line. Reflecting on these experiences, I recognized the ‘bubble’ of privilege I had lived in. Back home, my challenges seemed trivial—stress over exams or deciding what to wear on any given day. In Kenya, I encountered children playing soccer barefoot on rocky ground, smiling despite lacking necessities. This contrast shattered my initial, more simplistic motivations and replaced them with a deeper drive. What inspired me to go abroad has evolved. While I initially sought clinical experience and cultural immersion, I left with a profound commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and bridging the gap between privilege and access.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1742787063/images2/interviews/pUn5zTilTsaTP4nqYAlkkvnru3rGGeof1Jz495tt.jpg" alt="participants holding some stuffed toys"><div class="caption"><p>Andrew, with other IMA participants, is holding gifts for the students.</p></div></div>
<h3>Why did you choose International Medical Aid (IMA)?</h3>
<p>I chose International Medical Aid because it offered a unique blend of clinical exposure and community engagement in an underserved area. The opportunity to shadow healthcare professionals in resource-limited settings intrigued me, as I wanted to understand how they adapted to challenges such as limited sanitation and scarce medical supplies. Additionally, the program’s emphasis on outreach—taking blood pressure, teaching hygiene, and working in mental health clinics—aligned with my passion for patient-centered care. Through its immersive approach, the program allowed me to connect with patients beyond their diagnoses, fostering a deeper understanding of global health disparities and cultural resilience.</p>
<h3>What made Mombasa, Kenya, unforgettable?</h3>
<p>My favorite part of Mombasa, and Kenya in general, was the culture. From the moment I arrived, I was struck by how welcoming and joyful everyone was, even in the face of significant challenges. I remember the kids in the village playing soccer barefoot on rocky ground, laughing and full of energy. The sense of community was so strong, especially in the hospitals where families played an active role in patient care by grabbing water, assisting with hygiene, and maintaining medical records. One moment that stood out was when I joined a dance circle during a mental health clinic. It was such a fun, spontaneous way to connect with people, and it reminded me how powerful human connection can be. This experience not only opened my eyes to a new way of life but also deepened my appreciation for the resilience and kindness of others.</p>
<h3>What made your experience in Kenya extraordinary?</h3>
<p>I went to Kenya thinking I would simply help, learn, and contribute, but I ended up being deeply moved by the kindness and resilience of the people I met. In Kenya, despite the challenges they face, people were so positive and genuinely happy. I was amazed by the strength of the community, especially in the hospitals, where families played such an active role in caring for patients. I was able to bond and teach the kids in schools and play soccer with them on the beach and at the orphanage, and it felt as if I was part of their culture even though I was there for only 4 weeks. It was eye-opening to experience a culture so different from my own. Not only did this make my experience extraordinary, but I also found a new spark in my desire to become a doctor. This began in the Accident and Emergency Theater. When I first walked into the hospital, I prepared myself for the worst – chaos, blood, screaming, and other heart-wrenching scenes. I'm thankful I had that mindset because on my first day, I experienced my first death, and everything I expected was there. Two patients were lying side by side – one male on dialysis and a female with HIV(or RVD). Both were in critical condition, convulsing and unconscious. The only signs of life were the beeping monitors. As I was walking around with the doctor, I suddenly heard that all-too-familiar high-pitched beep signaling the female’s oxygen levels were dangerously low. It was worse than I had ever seen before. Despite the doctors' attempts to stabilize her, nothing worked. They were fighting against what they knew was inevitable – the brain damage was too severe, and chest compressions wouldn’t save her. What followed was the chaos and heartbreak I wasn’t fully prepared for. The patient's daughter came in, screaming and desperate. She grabbed my shoulders, pleading with me to do something, anything. It was gut-wrenching, and I couldn’t do a thing. I felt powerless. It was a feeling I had never experienced before – knowing that I couldn’t jump in to help in such a moment of urgency. That night, as I reflected, I realized that as a student, my role was to observe and learn. I wasn’t qualified to act, but I couldn’t shake the feeling of guilt. The next day, I saw patients overflowing into hallways, their lives hanging by a thread, but the doctors were so overwhelmed they couldn’t give everyone the attention they needed. All I could do was offer them water and some comfort. That helplessness stuck with me and, in many ways, solidified my desire to pursue medicine. I never want to feel that helpless again, and I’m motivated now more than ever to dive in and help, especially in places where the need is so dire. This internship has motivated me more than ever to become a doctor. it is not just a want to be a doctor, but almost a need to. I am forever motivated to learn and that motivation was sparked by my experience abroad. That is what made my experience abroad extraordinary- the cultural immersion and the impact the experiences left on my mind.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1742787064/images2/interviews/SvN1ECyAZCDlyAfXKh75HoeBmoUs6GF1PZrKngMK.jpg" alt="Masai Mara tribe together with the interns"><div class="caption"><p>Andrew and other IMA participants with the Masai Mara tribe.</p></div></div>
<h3>How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The local staff was extremely helpful throughout the program. Whenever somebody was sick, they were always a phone call away. Whenever it was breakfast, lunch, or dinner time, a full meal and snacks were provided. Whenever anyone had questions, they were more than happy to answer. They were personable and made a clear plan each day for all of us. The drivers were always on time, and everyone was accounted for before they even got on the first flight. Going to a country by yourself is a lot for anyone, and all staff members were welcoming at all times, allowing a smooth transition into the country.</p>
<h3>If given a chance, is there anything you’d want to do differently during your time in Kenya?</h3>
<p>I don’t have many regrets because I made it a goal to be fully present and take advantage of every opportunity while I was there. That said, if I could do it again, I wish I had kept a more detailed journal. I captured the major moments, but so many small, meaningful interactions, such as conversations with patients or even interacting with the locals. Those moments held many lessons, and having a more thorough record would’ve helped me reflect on them more deeply and share those stories better with others.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life in Mombasa looked like.</h3>
<p>Every day varied abroad. Whether it was a weekday or weekend, a night shift was picked up, or there was a safari signed up for, the program was very diverse. Typically, if no safari was taken and no night shifts were picked up, everyone would go to Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital and shadow at the weekly placement from roughly 8:00am to 1:00pm. We would then go back to the residence and either teach at a school, visit an orphanage, or pick up an afternoon shift at the same or different department at the hospital. After dinner, it was relaxed, and it was time to go to the local malls, go to dinner, swim in the pool, and embrace the country.</p>
<h3>If you weren’t tending to patients, what were you doing for fun?</h3>
<p>I truly enjoyed every aspect of my time abroad, from working in the hospital to exploring the city during my free time. One highlight was our city tour during the first weekend in Mombasa. We visited different landmarks and met members of local tribes, which gave us a deeper appreciation of the city’s rich culture. This foundation made it easier to navigate the city, whether we were going out for dinner or shopping at the nearby mall. We also spent time relaxing at the beach and by the pool at our residence, where we bonded with the other interns.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1742787065/images2/interviews/7qO9ObnmSGqjIeuiSWPkzrUdE4k9GsHyRlV1C2YM.png" alt="two IMA participants and some boys in the clinic"><div class="caption"><p>Andrew proudly posing with students after their workshop at the Hygiene Clinic.</p></div></div>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>The accommodations provided by International Medical Aid were excellent. The staff took care of everything, including laundry, preparing three meals a day, and keeping the rooms clean and organized. Each person had at least one roommate, and the rooms were spacious and comfortable. There was a common area with a TV where everyone could gather, and we also had access to a pool, which was a great way to unwind. The drivers were reliable and always punctual, making it easy for groups to get to their next destination. The attention to detail and care made the experience even more enjoyable.</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before theirs begins?</h3>
<p>One thing every future participant should know is to approach the program with an open mind and be ready to adapt quickly. The healthcare environment in Kenya is very different from what you might be used to, with limited resources and overworked staff, but this creates a unique opportunity to learn about medicine in a challenging yet rewarding setting. Be prepared to witness some difficult situations, but also know that these moments will teach you resilience and empathy. Embrace the culture, connect with the locals, and take full advantage of every experience both in and outside the hospital.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend International Medical Aid (IMA)? Why?</h3>
<p>I would highly recommend International Medical Aid to others. The program offers an incredible combination of hands-on medical experience, cultural immersion, and community engagement. One of the most rewarding aspects was teaching many age ranges and interacting with local communities, which deepened my appreciation for their culture and resilience. Shadowing doctors and learning about healthcare in resource-limited settings gave me a new perspective on patient care. The program also ensured we were fully immersed in the local culture, whether through village visits, city tours, or participating in traditional activities. It is a life-changing experience that I believe everyone should have.</p>
<h3>What do you feel is the biggest benefit of traveling abroad?</h3>
<p>The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is discovering yourself in ways you never could within your usual bubble. Being in Kenya, I was confronted with realities that forced me to reflect on my own privilege and limitations. It was humbling to see the resilience of communities facing immense challenges and to witness the profound impact of even small acts of care. Stepping outside of my comfort zone helped me realize my motivation to pursue medicine was deeper than I thought. It wasn’t just about learning science but about making a real difference in places where resources are scarce. That realization has shaped both my personal and professional goals.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1742787065/images2/interviews/byszoQfQ7TzfzZfDgArygqx2QJFbssXvTsJDDTGo.jpg" alt="happy girls in the clinic together with an IMA participant"><div class="caption"><p>Andrew with Kenyans in the Mental Health Clinic.</p></div></div>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time in Kenya affected your life?</h3>
<p>Now that I’m home, my time abroad has had a profound impact on my life, especially on my motivation to become a doctor. One moment that stands out was that moment in the Accident and Emergency Theater, where I witnessed my first patient death. That experience, coupled with the chaos and desperation in the room, brought an overwhelming sense of helplessness. I remember a patient’s daughter grabbing my shoulders, pleading for me to save her mother, and realizing there was nothing I could do. That feeling of powerlessness has stayed with me, but instead of discouraging me, it fueled my drive to pursue medicine with a renewed passion. This experience was more than just a wake-up call. It made me realize how much I want to serve in places where resources are scarce, and doctors are stretched thin. The cultural immersion also deepened my understanding of healthcare disparities and strengthened my empathy for others. Since coming back, I’ve approached my studies with a greater sense of purpose, knowing that the knowledge and skills I’m working toward could one day make a life-changing difference for someone else. That spark of motivation I discovered abroad is now a constant drive in my head.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel, to me, is about stepping outside of your comfort zone and immersing yourself in a culture with the intent to connect, learn, and grow. It’s not just about visiting new places; it’s about understanding the lives, struggles, and joys of the people who live there. My experience in Kenya taught me that meaningful travel is about more than the sights—it’s about the shared human experience. It’s about listening to stories, sharing meals, and engaging with communities in a way that fosters mutual respect and understanding. It’s learning from moments that challenge your worldview, like witnessing the resilience of patients in a resource-limited hospital or the joy of children playing soccer on rocky ground. It’s also about building relationships with people from all over the world. Meeting other interns, each with their own perspectives and experiences, expanded my understanding of global healthcare and created lifelong friendships. Meaningful travel leaves a lasting impact not just on the traveler but also on the communities visited. It’s about coming home with a renewed sense of purpose and a desire to contribute positively to the world, inspired by the connections and lessons you gained along the way.</p>


Andrew Klingele

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Andrew Klingele who participated in Kenya 2024 International Medical Aid (IMA) program.

Andrew Klingele | International Medical Aid (IMA) Kenya 2024

International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview with Andrew Klingele

<h3>What inspired you to travel abroad?</h3>
<p>I grew up in a very small town where I wasn’t exposed to much diversity, which made me curious about what life was like outside of my bubble. I wanted to see the world beyond what I knew and saw this as a challenge. Not only would I get to experience a new culture, but I’d also be stepping outside my comfort zone and doing something completely different. Going abroad solo, without knowing anyone else in the program, felt like the perfect way to push myself. It was an opportunity to grow my independence and really test my personal limits.</p>
<h3>Why did you choose International Medical Aid (IMA)?</h3>
<p>Before going abroad, I did extensive research on the various programs and locations available to me. I chose International Medical Aid [IMA] after a deep dive into their website, social media, and after connecting with alumni from the program. I chose IMA because it aligned perfectly with my passion for nursing and my desire to gain hands-on, real-world experience in a global context. The organization’s focus on providing healthcare in underserved communities really resonated with me, as it offered the opportunity to not only learn about healthcare systems in different countries but also actively contribute to improving them. I felt that many other programs, while similar to IMA, didn’t offer the same hands-on experience or the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. They seemed to prioritize the travel aspect more than the actual healthcare work, which wasn’t what I was looking for. I wanted a program where I could directly contribute to improving healthcare in underserved communities, not just observe. Connecting with alumni was what sealed the deal for me. Every single student alumni had nothing but fantastic things to say about the program.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1742788277/images2/interviews/NAFbcW2T4WZvm71FruFH5E0NcsMAnezS5b4Wrr1U.jpg" alt="IMA participants smiling review a document"><div class="caption"><p>Ashton, Abbey, and Brooke helping in the pharmacy during a free community clinic.</p></div></div>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Mombasa, Kenya?</h3>
<p>My favorite part of Mombasa was definitely the culture and the incredible warmth of the people. The culture was a unique blend of influences—Swahili, Arab, and even Portuguese traditions are woven into everyday life. Between the beauties of the architecture, food, music, and even the interactions between people, it was evident that the culture and history of Mombasa were rich. The warmth and hospitality of the people I met were the most incredible parts of the trip, as I constantly felt welcomed and never unsafe.</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>So many aspects of this internship were beyond extraordinary. I still wake up in disbelief, feeling incredibly fortunate to have had such a transformative experience. I started this trip with both passions for nursing and travel, but I left with a newfound passion for public and global health nursing. The structure of the program offered a truly well-rounded experience, combining physical skills with an emphasis on the psychosocial aspects of care. It wasn’t just about learning healthcare outside of the U.S.; it was also about learning more about myself and the impact I want to make in the world. This experience opened my eyes to the broader scope of nursing and made me realize how much I want to contribute to global health.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1742788795/images2/interviews/4uoR1J8GJIfWpDkOEv6G2ITldRDit53GtQwXtEfB.jpg" alt="a participant interacting with two students"><div class="caption"><p>Brooke during a community outreach at a local primary school.</p></div></div>
<h3>How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The local staff were incredibly supportive throughout the entire program. From the moment I arrived, I felt like I was greeted with open arms. The staff were always available, 24/7, to help us navigate daily travel, living arrangements, and any other logistical challenges. But what really stood out was their dedication to ensuring we felt immersed in the culture. They made sure we had plenty of opportunities to try local foods, explore the area, and go on cultural excursions. By the end of the trip, I felt deeply connected not only with my peers but also with the staff, as they often joined us on extra outings beyond their official duties. The staff really made all the difference by going above and beyond for us.</p>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your in Kenya?</h3>
<p>One thing I wish I would have done differently, aside from extending my trip, was to come better prepared with a plan for how I could make a greater impact. Once I arrived, I realized there were many areas where I could have helped, like donating toiletries and other essentials to the hospital units and local schools that were in need. I really wish I had thought about fundraising beforehand. I also wish I was a little bit more dedicated to learning the local language. Although there were not many instances where I felt that a language barrier was present, I feel that I would have felt more immersed in the experience if I had been more fluent in their local language.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>A typical day in my program was packed with both clinical and cultural activities. Monday through Friday, we spent our mornings in the hospital from about 7:45 AM to 1:45 PM, gaining hands-on experience in various departments. Some of us even picked up evening or night shifts to get additional exposure. After our shifts, we attended lectures on topics like the history of Kenya, Kenyan healthcare, common infectious diseases, and their treatment processes. We also participated in weekly simulations to practice skills like CPR, intubation, phlebotomy, and suturing. On Wednesdays, we had the chance to engage in community outreach, presenting to local schools on topics such as women's health, hygiene, tooth brushing, hand washing, and mental health. We also visited an orphanage, where we donated goods and interacted with the children. On weekends, we participated in free community clinics, helping with things like taking vital signs, blood sugar monitoring, patient assessments, and pharmacy duties. We could also participate in treks/safaris. I took part in the Watamu/Malindi beach safari. We explored Hell's Kitchen, Vasco de Gama's Pillar, and the Gede Ruins, and even got to snorkel in the Indian Ocean. Additionally, we could join weekly cultural tours, which offered a deeper understanding of Kenya’s history and traditions.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1742789055/images2/interviews/QTV12MVSMmpEh29S0vbM6T1DUstgjRGpwJFwXAkt.jpg" alt="four IMA participants in blue scrubs smiling and one holding a certificate."><div class="caption"><p>A proud moment for Brooke Thayer and fellow IMA participants!</p></div></div>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing in your free time there?</h3>
<p>Outside of clinical hours, there were a variety of activities for us interns to partake in. These included participating in safaris, visiting Haller Park, and touring cultural centers to learn about the rich history and culture of the area. We also had relaxing days where we would walk to Nyali beach to tan, swim, and play soccer. Some nights, we stayed in the residence to play cards or other games or even swim in the pool. There was always something to do both in the residence as well as exploring the area. We also often frequented the mall and local restaurants in our free time.</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>Our accommodation was in modern dormitory-style residences located within a secure, gated community. We generally shared rooms with 1 to 3 roommates, and each room had its own bathroom. The main house featured a spacious shared living room with a TV, a dining room, and a kitchen. Breakfast, which was prepared by local staff, was served around 7 am and always varied, giving us the chance to try different local foods each day. The local staff also took care of our room cleaning and did all our laundry weekly, which made life much easier. What I liked most about the accommodation was the large outdoor area, including a pool that was open to us at all times. This became my favorite part of the residence—it was the perfect spot for hanging with other interns outside of the hospital, helping us relax and unwind after a busy day.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1742794161/images2/interviews/Mmo9jKxSwfDJasDyiaB0sMWfmbBGYU5MCQuTGjAG.jpg" alt="Group of IMA interns holding certificates after completing their internship"><div class="caption"><p>Brooke and her fellow interns marking the end of their IMA journey.</p></div></div>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>One thing every future participant should know is that your experience will be shaped by how much you choose to engage. The more you step out of your comfort zone and take advantage of the numerous opportunities available, the more rewarding your experience will be. My advice to new interns is to say ‘yes’ to every opportunity, whether it’s a cultural excursion, a community outreach event, or extra clinical shifts—embrace it all, and you’ll get so much more out of the program.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend “Nursing/Pre-Nursing Internships Abroad for Aspiring Nurses” to others? Why?</h3>
<p>I would absolutely recommend this program to others. It provided me with invaluable hands-on clinical experience as a nursing student, but it also gave me a deeper understanding of public and global health nursing. What sets this program apart is its holistic approach—it not only focuses on developing physical nursing skills but also emphasizes the psychosocial aspects of patient care. This well-rounded experience is perfect for anyone looking to broaden their perspective and gain practical skills in a global context.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1742796752/images2/interviews/wuwTrLrZ3eWFEwPQrIiwPCKkChtkGZaepdpGBnsG.jpg" alt="Selfie of three female medical interns wearing masks and scrubs inside a clinical setting."><div class="caption"><p>Candid moment inside the hospital with fellow IMA interns.</p></div></div>
<h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad?</h3>
<p>The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the opportunity to immerse yourself in a different country’s culture and history firsthand. It’s one thing to read about another culture, but experiencing it directly allows you to see the world through a new lens. The exposure to different perspectives and ways of life not only broadens your understanding of the world but also helps you grow personally and professionally. It’s truly a unique opportunity that enriches your life in ways you can’t fully grasp until you’re there.</p>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>I truly wake up every day in disbelief that I saw all of the things that I saw in Kenya. Now that I’m home, I have a much deeper appreciation for the healthcare system I’m fortunate to have access to. My time abroad really opened my eyes to the disparities that exist globally. I also feel like a new door has been opened for me, as I’ve developed a passion for public health, especially in the context of global healthcare. It’s inspired me to explore ways I can make a difference in underserved communities, and it’s reshaped the direction I want my career to take.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel, to me, means traveling with a purpose beyond just sightseeing. It’s about immersing yourself in the local culture, connecting with the people, and leaving a positive impact on both the community and the environment. Meaningful travel extends beyond tourism. It means to travel with intent and leave knowing that you have truly made a difference.</p>


Brooke Thayer

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Brooke Thayer who participated in International Medical Aid (IMA) program.

Brooke Thayer | International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview

International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview with Brooke Thayer

<h3>What inspired you to travel abroad?</h3>
<p>I have always been fascinated by learning different birthing customs across South America, with this interest originating in my own Brazilian culture. As I progressed in my studies as a first-generation American and first-generation college student, I realized I could become a part of systemic change by committing to learning and advocating for multicultural representation in medicine, where I hope to give back to my community one day as an obstetrician where I can mirror their appearance and speak their language. It is the responsibility of the new generations of Latin Americans who have been given the world from their families to listen to their elders to not only preserve these traditions and practices but also to expand on them and create a harmony that is lost in American medical systems were holistic care and modern medicine is usually put at odds and not being put to work together. I aspire to deepen my understanding of cultural practices in Latin American healthcare so I can support those who feel unseen and underrepresented in their most vulnerable moments. This is why I decided to go abroad to learn about these practices firsthand!</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1742799572/images2/interviews/Yml98mC03e9IOSqvFMpPqJBeCoKyqXV3Ga7qkcHj.jpg" alt="a participant standing in front of IMA's banner"><div class="caption"><p>Emily at IMA’s Cusco location.</p></div></div>
<h3>Why did you choose the program Global Health &amp; Pre-Medicine Internships Abroad by IMA?</h3>
<p>When looking for abroad programs, I very carefully researched each program to ensure that I was not applying to any "white savior" or "voluntourism" programs. I truly valued long-term relationship programs with employees from the actual area, and the mission to help students learn but also create opportunities for the communities and lands that hosted us, and that is exactly the mission of International Medical Aid.</p>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Peru?</h3>
<p>My favorite part about Peru was the people! Our mentors, doctors, and staff were so beyond kind! Everyone gave us their favorite recommendations and had the most incredible energy I hope to mirror as a physician one day! From our chef staff to our tour guides, to our drivers and physicians, the beautiful Cusco energy made it so we were welcome from the moment we arrived.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1742800318/images2/interviews/PlKd6l89sofDw7RUPY3noPxwox08Sav2uXYEKjuL.jpg" alt="Participant smiling and hugging a brown llama at a cultural site with thatched-roof buildings in the background."><div class="caption"><p>Emily, on one of their off days, spending time with the animals.</p></div></div>
<h3>What made your experience in Peru extraordinary?</h3>
<p>What made my experience abroad extraordinary was the ability to have firsthand experience in a culture where holistic medicine and science were able to work side by side. Physicians who prescribe teas and offer different birthing positions that are just on your back but also celebrate new pap smear techniques and studies with the same enthusiasm! I hope to one day be a physician just like the ones I shadowed!</p>
<h3>How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The local staff were incredible! From our incredible drivers who would exchange songs with us on the way to the hospital in the morning to our mentors who were eager to answer any and all questions we had! Working alongside the providers at the community clinic was a beautiful experience where we got to compare the education system to become a doctor in both Peru and the United States and chatting with the obstetricians comparing birthing customs and contraceptive methods was an experience I will cherish forever!</p>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>One thing I wish I would have done differently is somehow had more energy to explore more at night with my fellow interns! It's always difficult to bond quickly with a group of people you have just met, but Cusco has so much to offer! If I could go back, I would try more restaurants, more dancing, and met more people!</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1742800319/images2/interviews/DJQcEXez1xLpzThHFlkDSFyvauj27iO4tNdTSN8l.jpg" alt="Group of IMA participants in blue scrubs and face masks taking a selfie outside a clinic or hospital building."><div class="caption"><p>IMA participants in one of their clinics.</p></div></div>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>We would wake up at our accommodations and have a delicious breakfast, and then we would get picked up by our most amazing and kindest driver to head to the hospital. There, we would receive our assignment for the day sit in for all the appointments with the doctors, and observe the day-to-day routines. We would sometimes assist with things like charting, vitals, and, of course, asking questions and discussing with the doctors the differences between American and Peruvian health systems and traditions, especially surrounding birth, since I spent all my days in the obstetrics unit. We would then come back to our accommodations and either go out on our own adventure, teach personal hygiene to local schools, or go to medical Spanish class!</p>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>During our free time, we would often go out exploring the local squares such as the Plaza de Armas, San Blas, San Pedro Market, grab ice cream, shop–anything we desired! We took any and all recommendations from our doctors, mentors, or anyone who gave us recommendations for restaurants or must-see spots, and we took full advantage of our free time!</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>We stayed in a sort of small boutique hotel that had the kindest staff and the best food! I personally had one roommate while others sometimes had two, so two to three interns per room and it was beautiful! It was right in the center of Cusco so we could walk to the Plaza de Armas, or the San Pedro Market, in under 15 minutes so it made for some amazing exploring!</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1742800320/images2/interviews/RIyS2yrYJH20hlBHlNQoClBIYxpfbCAS394wPsM1.jpg" alt="Participant posing in front of the ruins of Machu Picchu with mountains and terraces in the background."><div class="caption"><p>Emily explored Machu Picchu, the iconic Incan citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru.</p></div></div>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>Although it is not a requirement to know Spanish to participate in the program, I feel as though participants should try their best to know the language before they go! I myself am fluent in Spanish so I was able to have educated conversations with the providers and ask complex questions! This way, I was able to get the most out of my experience form true connections with the doctors and compare American cultures and customs to Peruvian ones!</p>
<h3>Would you recommend International Medical Aid (IMA)? Why?</h3>
<p>I would absolutely recommend International Medical Aid to others. I have incredibly safe and cared for while abroad and the physicians that partner with IMA are beyond excited and willing to teach us interns anything we would like to learn! The other experiences of volunteering at the community clinic, teaching hygiene to local schools, hikes, tours, and Spanish tours really are what makes IMA stand out from other shadowing programs.</p>
<h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad?</h3>
<p>The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is that everything is new! There is no pressure from anyone around you but the pressure you put on yourself to absorb as much of the information as you can! I'm allowed to ask a million questions because I know my time is limited, and the beauty is that people are usually more than happy to have a conversation!</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1742800321/images2/interviews/64zXc7sMBHMxAkewDqXfIsMfiYDiC912RXVN5VwR.jpg" alt="Two IMA participants and a driver smiling inside a vehicle; one participant holding up peace signs."><div class="caption"><p>Emily with other IMA participants.</p></div></div>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>My time abroad has completely changed my life. With everything I have been blessed to have learned in Cusco, everything I read I always find myself wanting to expand my knowledge on other countries and their customs relating to surgery rates, birthing customs, parenting values, and everything in between!</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel to me means respecting and honoring the land and people that who have hosted you. Learning about the native peoples who call the land home and taking home more knowledge and exchanging experiences is what makes travel so beautiful and so universal! Providing a listening ear and respectful inquiries is what brings all the meaning.</p>


Emily Teixeira

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Emily Teixeira who participated in International Medical Aid (IMA) program.

Emily Teixeira | International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview

International Medical Aid (IMA) Alumni Interview with Emily Teixeira

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