Seeing the Bigger Picture – My Five-Week Global Health Internship with IMA

This program was truly one of the most amazing experiences of my life. My time spent at the hospital, the residence, and outside of the residence were all incredible and shaped my experience in such a positive way. I felt very supported and knew that the mentors, especially Bella, were there for me. I also felt extremely safe at the residence and the program mentors always made sure we knew our schedule in advance so they could address any questions we might have had. Everything was very well communicated to us as interns. I truly felt at home in Mombasa. The food was amazing and the chefs were so kind and accommodating. One example of truly feeling at home that was Dorcas, one of the housekeeping staff, noticing how I put my blanket under my sheet and doing that for me whenever she made my bed. I know that it was extra work for her and the fact that she realized and took the time to do that for me made me feel so special. As mentioned, Bella was an extremely important part of my experience as well. I am so happy she accompanied us on our safari trek and I was able to properly meet her. She always went out of her way to talk to us and was just all around amazing. IMA generates a culture in which you are encouraged to befriend the other mentors and I am so beyond grateful because not only did this experience give me incredible clinical experience but also friends for life.