|
- Erika H. •
- MSID Program in Ecuador •
- Biology Major
“Here
I take science courses, and we learn about formulas, research,
and how to find answers. There they asked, 'What do you think
about this?”
—Erika H. |
|
Erika majored in biology, with a minor in Spanish. She was looking for a study abroad program that would improve her Spanish language skills, and chose the Minnesota Studies in International Development (MSID) program in Ecuador. She also wanted to step outside of the "science realm" and into a more social science-oriented academic environment. The MSID program offers an internship opportunity in which she worked at a rural health center, where she was able to combine her interest in biology with her study of language and culture.
Erika used the academic credits she gained on her program to complete her entire minor in Spanish. She found the coursework in language and culture to be very different from her science courses at the University of Minnesota. "Here I take science courses, and we learn about formulas, research, and how to find answers. There they asked, 'What do you think about this?' That was interesting." She enjoyed the discussion format, and the opportunity to apply what she was learning in the community.
In line with her goals, Erika was accepted to medical school after finishing her undergraduate studies. While in Ecuador, she interned at a rural community health center. Through that experience, Erika realized that she is interested in general family practice in rural areas as a career. She wants the opportunity to know her patients well and build relationships with them. She is also interested in working with underserved populations, where she feels her language skills will be an asset.
One of the most important experiences that Erika had in Ecuador was her internship in a rural health center. Her daily activities included vaccinating patients and controlling patient history charts. She learned how to perform these duties, and also how to communicate with patients.
Later in her internship, Erika was able to coordinate and administer health seminars to patients as they waitied for their appointments. She took advantage of the opportunity to speak to them on topics including tuberculosis and nutrition. Erika was also able to shadow Ecuadorian doctors at the center. The experience helped her solidify her career goals, and gave her a unique perspective on healthcare in a developing country.
Last modified on May 13, 2008 |