Virtual Global & Public Health Internship-Ghana.

In my academic career, the most meaningful experience for me was the Virtual Global & Public Health Internship program I completed in Ghana. This internship gave me back my motivation for pursuing medicine and it opened up new interests for me. I now for sure want to get a Masters in Public Health and I want a global health certificate or fellowship. This internship was very eye-opening because Ghana’s healthcare system, although is a different sphere than America’s, has many instances where it overlaps with the American system. The social determinants that affect the health of Americans, also play a crucial role in the health of Ghana’s people. Working on case studies with the wonderful physician who was coordinating our program was my favorite part of this entire experience, because it helped me expand my knowledge and it made me feel as if I am an actual doctor working on initiatives for the community. Although this experience was virtual, I am greatly hoping I could go in person one day (possibly when I am in medical school or doing my masters program). Learning about the health of other countries has always been my goal ever since learning about Doctors Without Borders. This internship has also taught me to push myself into becoming an actual advocate for health especially in marginalized communities, because those with heartbreaking stories are those suffering from being underserved and unheard. The entirety of Child Family Health International is built on the fundamentals of social responsibility, service-learning, empowerment, and education. Truly a wonderful experience that I will always recommend to others!