Living A Dream: A Reflection of My Time Spent in Kenya

My experience in Mombasa, Kenya, surpassed all of my expectations that I had going into it. I felt safe and supported at all times and was highly satisfied with the accomodations and food that was provided. This experience had an immense impact on me and I feel grateful that I had the opportunity to (hopefully) have had a positive impact on the community, with the leadership and guidance of IMA. A couple of significant moments that stand out to me include during the hospital orientation when I felt faint due to newly adjusting to the heat, mentors waited outside with me until I felt better and ready to join the group, which allowed me to feel safe and support from my very first day. Another stand out was the accommodations made for my dietary requirements. I have a severe anaphylactic allergy to tree nuts and the program kept the residence relatively nut free the whole time I was there to accomodate for this. I am greatly appreciative of that! There are too many extraordinary moments to be able to name them all, but overall I had an incredible time in Kenya with IMA and appreciate all that the staff does to keep us feeling comfortable, safe, and supported at all times!