Written by Chris Young
My name is Chris Young. I am a junior at the University of Arkansas, majoring in biology and pre-medical. This summer I was given the opportunity to study abroad in Belize. This was my first time leaving the country, which I believe was a notable experience on its own. In Belize, I was involved in a Community Health service learning project where I had the opportunity to shadow doctors, assist in outreach clinics and work with different organizations.
First, I was given a chance to shadow doctors at the Southern Regional Hospital in Dangriga, Belize. I was able to witness doctors interact with patients and view operations. Some of us even had the opportunity to assist doctors. I was able to assist a doctor cast a young man’s leg and I got to listen to the heartbeat of a pregnant woman’s child. Also, I had the privilege of shadowing the chief of medicine, Doctor Castillo, from the Southern Regional Hospital. He taught me some basic anatomy and physiology, along with explaining every patient’s diagnosis and treatment. During my last week abroad, I was placed in the dressing area of the polyclinic. Unlike in the United States, I had to cut the gauze that they use in the clinic and then place them in packaging to be sterilized.
I was also fortunate enough to work in an outreach clinic called a “mobile” in a town called Hopkins. I assisted in giving immunization shots to young children and I was also able to help the caretaker weigh the babies and measure their height. The purpose of the mobile clinic was to serve those who can’t make it to the clinic to get their required shots. Working in these outreach clinics was incredible. I learned about the different immunizations for young children, how to properly give a shot and the importance of breast-feeding.
Also, being a member of the “Health” aspect of the Belize service projects, I was given the opportunity to work with the ladies of the Proactive Organization of Women in Action (POWA). The health team, along with POWA, conducted a workshop on Hypertension, Diabetes and Anemia. The ladies of POWA also presented information on HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections. They also conducted a workshop showing their traditional herbs and spices. This was the best workshop that I attended because it was such a great way for them to display their culture and “healers.” Working with the ladies of POWA really helped me emerge myself into the Belizean culture. They are an awesome group of women and deserve the highest praise for the things they do for their community.
By studying abroad in Belize, I was able to expand my horizons beyond the customs of the United States and understand the complexities of working in a developing country. The in-depth exposure to the healthcare industry abroad also provided me with an opportunity to gain a better understanding of how to face upcoming challenges in the medical field. I am truly grateful for this experience; it was definitely worthwhile.
