My trip to Malawi was a life changing experience, as it was my first time traveling outside of the U.S. and only second time flying on an airplane. I was initially nervous about traveling, but eager to challenge myself physically and emotionally by opening my mind and embracing a new culture.
For 2 weeks I attended morning meetings, shadowed physicians on
rounds, and scrubbed in on surgeries in the operating room. Given my outgoing
personality, I quickly made friends with several Malawians. They were delighted
to see that I was not intimidated by our physical differences, and actually willing
to greet them and engage them in conversation. This experience allowed me to
face challenges, discover new personal strengths, and gain an understanding of
the world in a much broader perspective. I experienced the realities of
medicine and was exposed to the international side of health by seeing how
physicians work with, and train, other health care providers in a developing
country. I learned that most Malawians face huge challenges, but combat them
with much vitality– which I envy. 
For me, this journey was not just about providing medical care and saving people’s lives, it was about supporting and enhancing the trusted relationship between UNC and the people in Malawi by expressing empathy and care for their health.
I will never forget their smiling faces or the lessons they taught me. I can't wait to go back.
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