By Megan Schulte, student study abroad ambassador

What program?

CIEE Community Public Health in Gaborone, Botswana.

Program type

Co-sponsored program.

What you are studying with your program?

I am studying the healthcare system in Botswana. My curriculum includes lectures on environmental and public health and weekly observations at local clinics. I have also had the opportunity observe at rural clinics for a week in a village in order to draw comparisons.

Why CIEE Community Public Health?

I knew that I wanted to have a health-related study abroad experience in an environment outside of my comfort zone. I wanted to travel somewhere I might not otherwise think to go, so I began to focus my search on countries in Africa. I chose the CIEE Community Public Health Program because I liked the idea of weekly shadowing opportunities in the local clinics and the unique experience of visiting a village.

Coolest place/thing that you have done so far

For Easter break, a few friends and I spent the long weekend visiting Victoria Falls (on the Zambian and Zimbabwean side), Chobe National Park, and the Okavango Delta. At one point, we had been in three countries within 24 hours. The pictures I have from the trip are amazing, but the beauty truly could not be captured on camera.

Favorite part about the program

My favorite part of the program is having the opportunity to see for myself what the healthcare system is like in Botswana. There is only so much I can learn from lectures and readings, so having the opportunity to visit urban and rural clinics is truly the most impactful in understanding the system.

How study abroad has affected/changed you so far

Being immersed in a culture so much different from my own has been a challenge, but through this experience I have learned a lot about myself. I have tested my physical abilities on many occasions and have been faced with situations that have been mentally strenuous. I have a new-found confidence in myself and my strength because of my experience.

Catch us next week as we continue to travel around the world to feature the amazing opportunities that Miami students are taking!
 
Would you or someone you know want to be featured in a future Where in the World is Miami Wednesday?

Submit a story