SIT Study Abroad: Madagascar: Traditional Medicine & Healthcare Systems

My trip to Madagascar was unlike anything I had ever experienced. It was challenging, rewarding and fulfilling all at the same time. Unlike other study abroad programs, your time spent in Madagascar will be extremely immersive, and nothing like the usual European study abroad trip your university prepares you for. We travel to different parts of the country, such as rural and more urban/modernized areas so prepare yourself accordingly. There are large scheduled shifts and dietary changes, so ask for help and support in whatever areas you need. Despite all of the challenges I experienced on this trip, it is an enlightening one where you get to have direct contact with the locals to broaden your understanding of traditional medicine, colonial history and cultural legacies. Prepare yourself to learn Malagasy, experience an "African winter" and see Madagascar's rich biodiversity.

SIT provides a unique program that teaches the students about Traditional Medicine and the Healthcare system of Madagascar. The program directors provide comfort and support throughout the entirety of the program. Students will create long lasting connections on this program whether it will be with the locals, directors, or other students. Students should be prepared to go outside their comfort zones and be ready to be inspired by their studies and the cultural immersion they will experience. This program expands your understanding of how different each country can be especially when it comes to the people, culture, healthcare, and traditional beliefs.

Overall, studying in Madagascar with SIT was one of the best decisions I've made. It is a really unique country, and I don't imagine my experience could be replicated anywhere else. I had very little exposure to international travel before this program, so being able to explore Madagascar with trusted locals and in group of American students made the experience far less intimidating. The program instructor, Nat Quansah is an incredible person and teacher. He is clearly very passionate about his work and fostering curiosity, compassion, and enthusiasm in his students. The opportunity to learn about traditional medicine in Madagascar has changed my perspective on healthcare and how it can be realized in the U.S.