International Medical Aid - IMA

03/09/2026

"During my four-week internship with International Medical Aid at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital in Mombasa, I experienced medicine in a way that challenged and expanded my understanding of healthcare. Shadowing physicians across departments such as pediatrics, emergency, maternity, and surgery exposed me to a system shaped by limited resources, high patient volumes, and complex clinical challenges that required creativity, resilience, and adaptability. I observed a wide range of cases, from common pediatric illnesses like malaria and pneumonia to rare and complex conditions. Witnessing both the triumphs and the heartbreaks of medicine gave me a deeper appreciation for the resilience of patients and the dedication of the healthcare providers caring for them.⁣
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Beyond the hospital, participating in IMA-organized Community Outreach Activities was equally transformative. During a Hygiene Education Session at a local elementary school, we taught children how to properly wash their hands and brush their teeth. What stood out most to me was their overwhelming joy and gratitude simply for our presence. Despite having far fewer material resources than I had growing up, their happiness and energy were incredibly humbling. It reminded me that fulfillment and connection do not depend on abundance, but on compassion, empathy, and community.⁣
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My time in Mombasa reshaped how I see medicine. I learned that healthcare is influenced by far more than science—it is deeply connected to culture, education, economics, and access. These experiences strengthened my commitment to pursuing a career in medicine that is compassionate, adaptable, and dedicated to improving care for underserved communities.”⁣
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- 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐡𝐢𝐧, 𝗪𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐀𝐥𝐮𝐦⁣
𝘜𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘛𝘦𝘹𝘢𝘴 𝘙𝘪𝘰 𝘎𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘦 𝘝𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟼

03/06/2026

"Before medical school, I wondered whether medicine’s purpose was to prolong life or improve its quality. In Kenya, I discovered that medicine is neither solely science nor solely service—it is the art of humanity applied under the microscope of clinical care. Stepping into Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital, I witnessed both the whimsical and the stark: from machete injuries to patients navigating scarcity with resilience. These experiences revealed that care is inseparable from empathy, respect, and adaptability.⁣
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Through my CARE framework—Character, Agape, Resilience, Emotion—I observed medicine’s deeper dimensions. Agape is shown in simple gestures: holding a patient’s hand during procedures or offering reassurance amidst chaos. Resilience and Respect emerged as surgeons improvised with imperfect implants, preserving dignity despite limitations. Emotion proved an asset, not a liability, as staff calmed distressed families while making critical decisions. Surgery captivated me not only for its precision but for its profound responsibility: restoring function while honoring patient vulnerability.⁣
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Medicine, I realized, demands scientific skill and a cultivated character. My time in Kenya deepened my understanding that to heal is to engage fully with human fragility and resilience. I leave with gratitude, conviction, and no regret: I aspire to become a doctor who blends competence with warmth, crafting care that embraces both science and humanity."⁣
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- 𝗪𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐚𝐢, 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐀𝐥𝐮𝐦⁣
𝘜𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘊𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘦 𝘓𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘰𝘯 𝟸𝟶𝟹𝟶

03/04/2026

"Throughout my six weeks in Kenya, I was humbled by the generosity of physicians and patients alike. Doctors explained cases in detail during rounds, called me to observe interesting presentations, and paused before long surgeries to teach me about their approaches. I am also grateful to patients who allowed me to examine them and learn from their experiences. The clinical cases were unlike those in the United States: broken bones from falling coconut trees, head injuries from donkey kicks, and tuk-tuk accidents. While difficult to witness, these cases taught me to think creatively and broadly about diagnosis and treatment, and to appreciate how different populations approach care within their constraints.⁣
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My time in Kenya taught me skills I will carry throughout my healthcare career: cultural humility, resourcefulness in diagnosis, understanding systemic barriers, and patient advocacy. These experiences will stay with me—not as abstract lessons, but as real people whose stories shape how I practice. I am committed to integrating health education into my work, especially for underserved populations, and to answering questions that help patients overcome fear or confusion. Until I become a provider, I hope to continue empowering patients with the confidence to navigate and advocate for their own health, beginning simply with education.⁣
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I do not take my position for granted. I understand the privilege of observing without bearing the daily burden of these healthcare providers and leaving when my rotation ended. This experience clarified my path. I am pursuing a career in healthcare because I want to be part of closing these gaps. I hope to return to Kenya one day as a physician, where I can provide deserving care to a population that contributed so much to my education."⁣
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- 𝐙𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐀𝐦𝐞𝐥𝐢, 𝗪𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐀𝐥𝐮𝐦⁣
𝘜𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘺𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟹

03/03/2026

"Experiencing my first natural birth in Kenya strengthened my decision to include birthing centers where childbirth can be a positive, empowering, and humane experience. I want these centers to combine compassionate, patient-centered bedside care I learned in the United States with the innovative, family-centered approaches I observed at Coast General Hospital in Mombasa. Despite limited resources, the staff at Coast General showed remarkable dedication and ingenuity, making the most of what they had while keeping families at the center of care. By blending clinical skill, compassion, innovation, and family involvement, I hope to build a model of care that meets medical needs while preserving dignity and well-being for mothers and children. My goal is to bridge these two worlds, bringing together knowledge, empathy, and resourcefulness to improve experiences for women and families.⁣

Reflecting on my time in both countries, I see my journey as more than travel—it became a bridge between two healthcare systems. In American hospitals, I learned the value of technology, structure, and patient-focused care. In Kenya, I witnessed the power of creativity, teamwork, and family support, even with limited tools. These lessons showed me that true healthcare is not only about machines or medication, but about empathy, respect, and human connection.⁣

Through future postpartum and birthing centers, I hope to unite these strengths—combining clinical precision with holistic, family-focused care. I want to create spaces where mothers are supported physically and emotionally, where childbirth is empowering, and motherhood is met with dignity. This journey across miles and systems taught me that the best care is not about choosing one method over another, but about learning from both, and building something better in between. Truly, this has been my story: 'Between Two Wards: A Journey from American Hospitals to Kenya’s Public Health System."

- 𝐍𝐚𝐨𝐦𝐢 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐧, 𝗪𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐀𝐥𝐮𝐦⁣
𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘳 𝘏𝘪𝘨𝘩 𝘚𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘭

03/01/2026

Transitions shape us, and experiences leave lasting impressions. Our most recent cohort reflected on their time at our flagship sites in East Africa—Mombasa, Kenya—sharing how this journey strengthened their skills, broadened their perspectives, and deepened their understanding of healthcare in practice.

Their reflections now serve as a roadmap for the next cohort, highlighting lessons learned and providing practical insight for hands-on, collaborative learning. As one chapter closes, another quietly begins, leaving behind guidance and valuable knowledge for those who will follow.

At IMA, we remain committed to offering opportunities for applied learning, cross-cultural exchange, and meaningful impact in the healthcare field. Ready to gain real-world experience that shapes your career? Applications are now open for our Summer 2026 Healthcare Internship Programs. Learn more and apply today at medicalaid.org.

With all of that said, let’s hear what our alumni had to say—their top tips from their experiences abroad.

02/27/2026

Preparedness in healthcare is built long before the first real patient encounter. It takes repetition, guidance, and the confidence to act with clarity in real-life situations.

At our flagship site in East Africa—Mombasa, Kenya—our recent Winter Cohorts participated in Clinical Simulation Sessions designed to develop essential healthcare competencies in a controlled, supportive environment. Interns practiced procedures and workflows repeatedly, allowing them to focus on precision, decision-making, and problem-solving without the pressures or risks of real patients. Importantly, IMA offers pre-clinical students access to these simulation experiences long before they would encounter them in traditional medical training, providing a safe, structured, and ethically grounded introduction to clinical practice.

Simulation-based learning provides interns with opportunities to refine their approach, receive immediate feedback, and cultivate confidence in their clinical judgment. These sessions also encourage collaboration, clear communication, and teamwork, all of which are critical in any healthcare setting.

Beyond technique, simulations offer a space to reflect, analyze outcomes, and learn from mistakes in a low-stakes environment. Interns experience the rhythm of clinical scenarios, understand the importance of preparation and attention to detail, and build the professional mindset necessary to respond thoughtfully when challenges arise.

Through these guided, controlled experiences, our interns strengthen both their practical skills and their professional confidence. They gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity of healthcare, the value of teamwork, and the importance of critical thinking, all while laying the foundation for responsible, competent practice in future clinical environments.

02/26/2026

02/25/2026

“Diving deeper into the healthcare system in Kenya has shown me the existing gaps that prevent patients from receiving the care that they need and ultimately contribute to mortality. My first thought when I learned about the healthcare system in Kenya was that these gaps seem almost impossible to close. However, it made me ponder how these gaps can be closed, even by the slightest degree, whether through addressing health disparities with a health equity lens, focusing on advocacy, or as a healthcare provider in a hospital setting. ⁣
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This led me to ask further questions, which eventually instilled in me a desire to make a difference. For example, although my role as an intern may have seemed insignificant in terms of what I was able to practice, I have built many meaningful relationships with various people there, and I would like to believe that I have made a difference in at least one person’s life. This is because even though I am not able to change the world, even brightening up one person’s day would seem to them as if something has changed, and that may be something they will always carry with them. This could be the drop that turns into a ripple and has a long-lasting effect. If one drop can turn into a ripple, I can only imagine what numerous drops can do. ⁣
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I believe International Medical Aid is a wonderful example of how the gaps in Kenya’s healthcare system can be closed. Each intern has interacted with numerous patients and healthcare providers, bringing back a piece of their journey to share their stories. Each intern must also have given words of consolation, encouragement, and hope to the patients they interacted with, which may have given them strength during what may have been the lowest points of their lives. I have learned that the smallest things can build up to become something very meaningful that touches people’s lives.”⁣
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- 𝐌𝐢𝐧 𝐉𝐢 𝐂𝐡𝐚, 𝗪𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐀𝐥𝐮𝐦⁣
𝘏𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘪 𝘗𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘤 𝘜𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟼

02/24/2026

Every IMA internship has its quiet turning points. The first time an intern leads a session, explains a concept to a group of students, or works directly with children—answering questions and guiding their understanding—can feel small but is deeply significant. These moments build confidence and help future healthcare professionals discover their voice.

At our flagship sites in East Africa—Mombasa, Kenya—and South America—Cusco, Peru—interns come from diverse educational backgrounds, ages, and levels of experience. Some are naturally outgoing; others are more reserved. Through structured Community Outreach Activities like Hygiene Education Sessions, Women’s Health Education Sessions, and mental health awareness clinics, they learn to communicate clearly, engage audiences effectively, and work seamlessly as a team.

These experiences strengthen the essential skills on which medicine relies: clear communication, attentive listening, cultural awareness, and practical collaboration. Interns uncover strengths they didn’t know they had, learning to adapt, support one another, and grow through hands-on practice. Clinical rotations take this growth further. In busy outpatient clinics and resource-limited settings, interns find ways to navigate challenges, connect across language and system barriers, and see how teamwork and intentional communication shape quality care.

By the end of their IMA internship, confidence is not about being the loudest—it is about speaking clearly, listening actively, and contributing meaningfully. At IMA, these experiences equip interns with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to make a real difference in healthcare anywhere in the world, as members of the next generation of healthcare leaders.

02/21/2026

The presence of the ocean often gives the impression of abundance. Yet in the MaryCliff community, daily life tells a different story. Although the neighborhood sits right next to the Indian Ocean, access to fresh, safe water remains limited, and many families depend on water vendors to meet their everyday needs. When water must be purchased and carefully rationed, even simple hygiene routines require care and consistency.

With this reality in mind, interns at our flagship site in East Africa—Mombasa, Kenya—recently led an interactive Hygiene Education Session at MaryCliff Girls’ Comprehensive School, engaging more than 200 students from the surrounding area. The session focused on practical habits students can carry into daily life, emphasizing proper handwashing and toothbrushing techniques for settings where water is limited.

Through demonstrations and hands-on practice, students learned how to wash their hands effectively using minimal water, the right timing for handwashing to help prevent illness, and simple toothbrushing routines that protect oral health without wasting water. Students also shared their own experiences, making the session a lively, collaborative exchange that connected hygiene knowledge directly to the challenges they face at home.

Even small, consistent habits—when adapted to limited resources—can make a meaningful difference. This session reflected IMA’s mission to advance global health through education, collaboration, and compassionate service in communities around the world.

02/19/2026

"Some experiences quietly change the way you see the world. My month with the IMA program in Kenya was one such experience. What began as an extremely competitive medical internship evolved into a deeply personal journey, reshaping my understanding of medicine, privilege, and what it truly means to serve. My program schedule was designed with equal thoughtfulness. Every Sunday brought anticipation. Each week offered clinical exposure while still allowing time to experience Mombasa’s culture and unwind by the beach. Each rotation began with an introduction to the department head and a guided tour, creating a smooth transition from guidance to autonomy.⁣
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Clinically, rotating through Surgery, Pediatrics, CCC, and the Emergency Department was humbling and transformative. I witnessed firsthand the contrast between American and Kenyan healthcare systems. In Kenya, poverty often makes healthcare a privilege rather than a basic right. Resource limitations demanded resilience, creativity, and compassion from providers. These experiences, especially in the ER and CCC clinics, challenged my assumptions and clarified my purpose.⁣
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The Community Outreach Activities were also impactful. What I initially saw as basic knowledge revealed itself to be a privilege. The Women’s Health Education Sessions showed what empowerment truly looks like, creating safe spaces for dialogue. Teaching children hand and dental hygiene reinforced that preventive care can be life-changing. This outreach reshaped my understanding of responsibility as a future physician.⁣
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The IMA internship was far more than a month of clinical rotations. It challenged me intellectually, grounded me emotionally, and expanded me ethically. The lessons I learned in Mombasa will stay with me far longer than any textbook knowledge. This experience did not just prepare me to be a better medical student; it prepared me to be a more conscious, compassionate, and globally aware physician."⁣
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- 𝐀𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐥 𝐊𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐮𝐭𝐤𝐚𝐫, 𝗪𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐀𝐥𝐮𝐦⁣
𝘜𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘛𝘦𝘹𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘵 𝘈𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟾