What Began as a Clinical Internship Became a Life I Didn’t Want to Leave: Finding Community, Purpose, and a Second Home in Kenya

Tatyana Maldonado
University of Connecticut

Interning at IMA was a life-changing experience for me. It completely transformed my daily life, bringing me immense joy. The welcoming atmosphere from my fellow interns and the entire staff—mentors, doctors, security, and even the cleaning and kitchen teams—made me feel like I was part of a family. I had the opportunity to witness wonders of the world that I never thought I’d see, and now that I’ve left, I deeply miss those moments. I hope to return as soon as possible.The food was always fresh and delicious, and the kitchen staff were open to any suggestions or special requests. The accommodations were lovely, and the location was convenient, with easy access to essentials like grocery stores, malls, and even the beach. Our drivers became more than just drivers; they were our friends, joining us on many memorable trips. When I came to Africa, I expected a strictly professional and clinical experience, but I received so much more. I now cherish countless memories and have made lifelong friends.

What Stays With You After an International Medical Aid Experience in Kenya?🌍 For HOSA members and IMA alumni Sarah Benish and Sid Girada, their experiences with International Medical Aid in…
@hosafhp
What Stays With You After an International Medical Aid Experience in Kenya?🌍 For HOSA members and IMA alumni Sarah Benish and Sid Girada, their experiences with International Medical Aid in…
Knowledge is power and power is from knowledge. Asante sana Kenya 🇰🇪 For the last month, I have been able to gain not only medical experience, but also be immersed…
@juless2400
Knowledge is power and power is from knowledge. Asante sana Kenya 🇰🇪 For the last month, I have been able to gain not only medical experience, but also be immersed…
already planning my next trip 🇰🇪🤍
@kaylasmedjourney
already planning my next trip 🇰🇪🤍
This past week, I had the opportunity to deliver the care packages I put together to patients and families at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kenya. I delivered…
@care_in_motion_
This past week, I had the opportunity to deliver the care packages I put together to patients and families at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kenya. I delivered…
Thank you @internationalmedicalaid for an experience of a lifetime Asante sana Kenya!💙🇰🇪
@emily_curtiz
Thank you @internationalmedicalaid for an experience of a lifetime Asante sana Kenya!💙🇰🇪
Ili bamba 🇰🇪🤍 For two weeks, I had the opportunity to learn alongside healthcare professionals, experience different hospital departments, participate in community health clinics, and immerse myself in Kenyan culture.…
@_mai.hall
Ili bamba 🇰🇪🤍 For two weeks, I had the opportunity to learn alongside healthcare professionals, experience different hospital departments, participate in community health clinics, and immerse myself in Kenyan culture.…
Thank you @internationalmedicalaid for an incredible experience! Kwaheri Kenya🇰🇪♥️
@madisonsentz
Thank you @internationalmedicalaid for an incredible experience! Kwaheri Kenya🇰🇪♥️
Hakuna matata in Maasai 🇰🇪❤️🦁 feeling like the luckiest lady in the world
@dylanrclarkk
Hakuna matata in Maasai 🇰🇪❤️🦁 feeling like the luckiest lady in the world
forever grateful for this opportunity. asante sana kenya 🇰🇪
@sophie_hazard09
forever grateful for this opportunity. asante sana kenya 🇰🇪
Inca-redible 🩺
@maddiesine.08
Inca-redible 🩺
looking back on this once in a lifetime experience with @internationalmedicalaid i am filled with so much emotion. truly inspired by the healthcare professionals here and the love and dedication…
@nae.colemann
looking back on this once in a lifetime experience with @internationalmedicalaid i am filled with so much emotion. truly inspired by the healthcare professionals here and the love and dedication…
Grateful beyond belief for this adventure which in the end was an opportunity for personal growth and enlightenment in an unfamiliar setting, it was indubitably empowering. Thank you IMA mentors…
@madeoblechich
Grateful beyond belief for this adventure which in the end was an opportunity for personal growth and enlightenment in an unfamiliar setting, it was indubitably empowering. Thank you IMA mentors…
Thank you, Mombasa 🌴🌊🇰🇪 Kwaheri Kenya
@lrogers.17
Thank you, Mombasa 🌴🌊🇰🇪 Kwaheri Kenya
Asante sana, Mombasa 🇰🇪
@berlyn_nickerson
Asante sana, Mombasa 🇰🇪