Experience 1: Tanzania

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        On May 13th, 2023 I began traveling to Tanzania with 33 other people including the other Marian Spencer Scholars, photographers, journalists, Engineers Without Boarders, NEXT Innovation Scholars, etc. We first flew to Paris for our layover, then flew to Nairobi, Kenya and drove to Shirati, Tanzania. While we were in Tanzania, we had the opportunity to not only explore the country and learn more about another culture, we also worked on a research project. The 3 main categories were Life, Health, and Education. I was a part of the Heath group where we interviewed mothers and healthcare workers about their experiences. We, then, used this information to compare maternal health care in Tanzania versus America and made a presentation showcasing what we learned. After spending a week in the villages conducting these interviews and touring various dispensaries/clinics/hospitals, we drove to Masai Mara for a safari where we saw elephants, giraffes, ostriches, lions, hippos, monkeys, etc. Then, we drove to Nairobi, Kenya where we bought souvenirs, went to an elephant sanctuary, and went to a giraffe center.

         This experience has opened my eyes to the lack of resources and opportunities in other countries and the impact that has on the local citizens. The locals in Tanzania use innovation in order make up for the lack of resources, which has inspired me. I have learned that even when there are very few resources available, there is always something you can do to help those in need. My new perspective has made me more grateful for all of the resources, training, and opportunities I have now as well as those I will have access to as a future physician.