Finding My Calling in OB/GYN During My Internship at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital

Participating in the International Medical Aid (IMA) internship program in Mombasa, Kenya was one of the most formative experiences of my academic and professional life. My time interning at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital not only solidified my passion for OB/GYN but also deepened my understanding of global health disparities and the importance of compassionate, culturally competent care. In-Country Support and Staff: The in-country support provided by IMA was exceptional. From the moment I arrived in Mombasa, I felt cared for and supported by the entire team. All of the mentors were approachable, knowledgeable, and always willing to answer questions or provide guidance, both in the hospital and outside of it. I especially appreciated their attentiveness when I was feeling under the weather; Mitchel always checked in on me and made sure I was okay, which meant a lot being far from home. I want to give a special shout-out to Hilda, who was absolutely awesome to be around. Her energy and warmth made the experience even more memorable. I especially enjoyed hanging out with her during the safari; she was fun, supportive, and made the trip memorable. Safety: Safety was a major concern of mine before arriving, but IMA did an excellent job maintaining a secure environment. Our housing was guarded 24/7, and we were advised on areas to avoid, appropriate dress codes, and how to navigate the city respectfully and safely. I never felt unsafe, and knowing that IMA was always reachable in case of emergencies gave me peace of mind. Accommodations and Food: The accommodations were clean, comfortable, and conducive to rest after long days at the hospital. Rooms were shared with other interns, which fostered strong friendships and a sense of community. The meals provided were consistent, nutritious, and offered a mix of local and international flavors. Having home-cooked meals prepared daily made a huge difference in helping us stay energized and healthy throughout the program. One of my favorite memories was getting to help the pastry chef bake cinnamon rolls and a cake for the other residents. Even though most of us didn’t have strong baking skills, he was incredibly welcoming and made the experience fun and relaxed. It was a small but memorable moment of connection and hospitality that made our temporary home feel even more like a community. Clinical Experience and Impact: The clinical rotations were diverse and eye-opening. I was exposed to several departments, including pediatrics, internal medicine, surgery, and maternity. I found myself deeply drawn to the labor and delivery ward, where I observed numerous births and even had the chance to assist in some non-invasive ways under supervision. This was where I discovered my true passion for OB/GYN. However, this area also exposed one of the most challenging parts of my experience: witnessing the lack of empathy in some clinical interactions. While technically proficient, many staff lacked bedside manner, rarely acknowledging mothers post-delivery. While this was difficult to witness, it also shaped my own understanding of the kind of provider I want to be: one who prioritizes both clinical excellence and compassionate care. Additionally, the resources in the hospital were lacking. From reusing supplies to patients having to bring their own bedsheets, the lack of basic necessities was an ongoing challenge. These experiences gave me perspective on the privileges of the healthcare system in the U.S. Community Impact and Cultural Insights: The program’s connection to the community was one of its strongest features. We weren’t just observers in a hospital; we were invited to engage with a broader conversation about healthcare access, economic disparity, and public health education. Many of the patients we encountered lived in poverty and were unaware of the healthcare services available to them. This highlighted the need for more than just clinical care; it underscored the importance of community outreach and education. IMA’s local partnerships and involvement in community projects show their commitment to making a sustained impact, not just hosting interns. This part of the program helped me understand that healthcare must be holistic, starting long before a patient enters a hospital and continuing long after they leave. Personal Growth and Long-Term Impact: This experience transformed not only my academic path but my worldview. I entered the program as a Pre-PA student, still exploring specialties. I left with a clear vision of becoming an OB/GYN and pursuing medical school instead of the PA route. The emotional and ethical insights I gained from this experience, especially the importance of empathy and equity, are lessons I carry into every patient interaction as a CNA and will continue to prioritize throughout my career. Since returning, I’ve shadowed OB/GYNs in the U.S. and found the same aspects of the field that inspired me in Kenya; emotional connection, variety, and challenge are just as alive here. That consistency across cultures affirmed my decision to pursue this path. Final Thoughts: I am incredibly grateful to International Medical Aid for facilitating such a meaningful, safe, and eye-opening experience. The combination of clinical exposure, cultural immersion, and ethical reflection has had a lasting impact on me as a future healthcare provider. While there were challenging moments, especially in observing disparities and resource shortages, these were necessary for growth and reflection. To anyone considering this program, I would strongly encourage them to go with an open heart, a respectful attitude, and a willingness to learn, not just about medicine, but about humanity. The impact this experience had on me was profound, and I know it will shape the kind of physician I become.