Travelling abroad was one of the best things I've ever done. With this program, we got the opportunity to immerse ourselves into the healthcare system of Kenya through our hands-on experiences in a public hospital. I also got the chance to spend time in orphanages and schools, which was not only beneficial to the kids but definitely for me as well. Additionally, we went on a safari, visited beaches, toured Old Town Mombasa and Fort Jesus, and saw the famous Mombasa elephant tusks. This trip not only allowed me to become a better future physician, but a better person overall. I greatly encourage students to participate in a program such as this; it truly is a life-changing adventure.

My name is Nydia Orrantia and I attend The University of Arizona. I am majoring in Physiology and would like to pursue a career in Physician Assistant. I had been wanting to volunteer abroad for about three years, but being in my comfort zone had restricted me of doing so. This year I was determined to come out of my comfort zone and I started doing my research in which program would fit me better, and I came across Tai Global Elective. This program stood out for me because of the opportunities that are given to you to be able to interact so much with patients and have a great amount of hands on experience. After completing this trip I felt like it not only gave me the experience nor exposed to a different medical culture, but also had the opportunity to help a third world country with much needed assistance. I have been blessed to be given an opportunity like this and I know I was greatly committed to give my all to this experience.

Coming to Mombasa, Kenya with Tai Global Electives has truly been a life changing experience. The program they offer really let me experience a completely different side of medicine and health care that I may have never gotten to experience where I come from, Canada. Being only a pre-med student, I want to be absolutely sure that spending the next 10 years studying medicine was right for me. This opportunity really allowed me to see what it would be like working in a hospital, with other doctors, caring for patients. During my three-week internship at Coast Provincial General Hospital I worked along side Doctors and nurses on a daily basis. I spent time in different departments such as Emergency, Minor Surgery, Surgery, and Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Choosing to travel with Tai Global Elective was one of the best decisions I have made for my medical career. I worked with Doctors in all medical fields and completed rotations to see what department was best suited for me. The experiences and challenges I encountered really taught me the value of medicine in a developed country. The experience was much more than I initially anticipated; it allowed me to grow as an individual and see what kind of Doctor I want to be. You learn how to handle high-pressure situations and your presence truly makes a difference in the lives of many. If you are interested in volunteer work with local orphanages like myself, Tai Global organizes trips for you to do so. The crew was incredible, they tried their best to make you feel welcomed and right at home from the day you arrived to the day you left. I highly recommend anyone going into the Health Care professional to travel to Africa and work in a public hospital. The obstacles you face and overcome will change your life. Going in with an open mind I embraced the culture and the people around me and fell in love with Africa. I’ll be back one day!