Medical Volunteering in Tanzania

I learned a lot about the culture, the people and a healthcare system very difference from my own. It was a eye-opening experience to see how people manage with such limited resources. The staff I worked with at the hospital were incredibly skilled and knowledgeable about the population they served. I recommend you come with an open heart, a positive attitude and a willingness to engage with the people, and you will have an amazing experience. Be flexible. If something isn't working out, let the team know. They were always willing to help. They are the kindest people I have ever met.

I love walking into the classroom each day and being greeted with "Teacher, teacher". So much love! My favorite moment overall was the safari! The safari was my #1 bucket list item and the reason I came to Arusha. I knew Africa was going to make my dream come true and I wanted to give back to Africa in the only way I knew how - volunteering. This trip really opened my eyes to the African culture. I was not prepared mentally for the poverty I saw, but over time I realized that the locals were genuinely happy and I really came to love Arusha. I feel like I left with a greater appreciation for the day to day things in my life. Just do it! You'll never regret taking the chance to do something for someone else.

I really enjoyed meeting a new culture, the people from Tanzania, new places and the volunteers from the program. It was very impactful to learn how little they know about oral health, that they don't take care about their teeth and how little importance they give to going to the dentist. But at the same time how grateful and interested they were when we were going to help and teach them all those things. The experience was better than I expected. You grow as a person, you meet new people and learn from them (locals and volunteers) and it is a great opportunity to get out of your comfort zone.