I came to Africa with the intensions of participating as both a student and volunteer. The fluidity of Elective Africa’s planning and relationships with cooperating hospitals allowed me accomplish everything I could have ever asked for out of my time spent in Africa. Truly an amazing opportunity that has far surpassed any local shadow experience I’ve had in the U.S. Not only did I have the chance to observe knowledgeable physicians but I also got to engage in active contribution of those in need. Another wonder aspect of this program was learning to communicate a sense of understanding and empathy ...

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I came to the EA program in hopes of getting more hands-on time in an operating room. I actually got an experience that was a million times better than just OR time. We first assisted in many c-sections and got incredible teaching in the Millenium Theare from some amazing obstetricians. We split our time between OB and ER/Minor Theatre. There were many days when we were the medical staff in the minor theatre - performing minor surgeries and suturing wounds under our own direction. The autonomy was an incredible learning experience that just isn't as prevalent in the US ...

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Grounding, Humbling, Heartfelt

The health care system itself is very different than what I was accustomed to, but it was a huge learning opportunity to experience a third-world health care system. I was fortunate enough to work with a great surgeon for my four weeks here. Yes, I learned applicable medical and surgical knowledge. Was that the highlight of my trip? No…The hospital experience in Arusha was grounding, eye-opening, humbling and heart-felt. Not only do you see diagnoses that you won’t see in America, but you realize how much our future profession can be of service worldwide and how many people really need ...

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Awesome Experience

I just got home from Egypt last night. I had a great time there, but still couldn't help but miss Mombasa and everyone there. Thank you so much for everything! I absolutely loved my time with Elective Africa and can't say enough great things about everyone there! I miss you all and will have to make a return trip to Kenya whenever I get the chance.

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A Very Unique Dentistry Experience

Elective Africa provided me a very unique experience of dentistry. The dentists at the hospital were more than happy to assist you and teach you new things. In my first week I was able to do an injection and extraction! Of course back home you would never be able to experience that until you were a dental student. The help at the house was really great too. I wouldn’t worry about the food. It is actually better than what you could find back home. Of course there is time to travel and sight ...

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My Experience as a Pre-med student

Elective Africa’s program was exactly what I was looking for! I am a pre-med student from the United States and I wanted the opportunity to get a unique experience. At Coast General Provincial Hospital my  expectations were exceeded! I was given the chance to learn about diseases and procedures . I also got the chance to learn and shadow on how to deliver a baby and watch up close on surgeries such as a full leg amputation. We were allowed to explore our areas of interest and we were also allowed to explore as many different specialties as we wanted. ...

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I have greatly enjoyed my stay in Mombasa and the entire Elective Africa staff has done an excellent job at organizing everything and taking care of transportation as well as extracurricular outings for us. The accommodations here are very comfortable and the food is great. I have especially enjoyed my time working at Coast Provincial General Hospital. I know I have gained a lot of hands-on experience working here that I may not get back in the U.S. I have been privileged to work with some great doctors, nurses, and fellow students at the hospital. I ...

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Jambo Kenya

I went to Mombasa this summer as a pre-med and don’t have enough amazing things to say about my trip! I’ve been home in the U.S. for a little over two months now and haven’t gone a day without thinking about my trip to Kenya. Working in the hospitals was great preparation for medical school, which allowed me to get a realistic perspective on what being a doctor will actually be like. During my time at Coast General hospital, I was able to scrub in on surgeries, deliver a baby, clean and bandage wounds, I learned how to suture, and ...

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A Differentiated Healthcare Experience

This was a great experience and I would repeat it. I wish that I had more time to spend here. I was at Mt. Meru Hospital, Arusha Tanzania for three weeks in the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit and learnt a lot from the medical staff that I worked with. The hospital conditions are a bit different from what I am used to but the staff did the best that they could with what they had.

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This program helped me get acquainted with the medical world before I even stepped into medical school; I got to do things that wouldn't be possible in America. Everyone was very friendly and welcoming and I felt at home. It was very hard to say goodbye to everyone when I left, even after only weeks; I will miss everyone and EA very much!

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