Testimonials
Jane Miller
University of Sydney
Nursing Elective Jaipur
I had the incredible opportunity to complete my internship in Jaipur through Elective Abroad, and it was truly a life-changing experience. Over six weeks, I worked in three different hospitals, each offering a unique perspective on healthcare. I chose to focus on the maternity nursing department, where I was welcomed by an amazing and supportive team.
Beyond the hospital, Jaipur's location made it easy to explore nearby hill stations and historic towns. I visited the breathtaking Taj Mahal in Agra and the Golden Temple in Amritsar, both of which were unforgettable. The local currency was budget-friendly, and while the food was quite spicy at first, I grew to love it—now, I even miss it! I also learned to do henna, drape a saree, and immerse myself in India's rich culture and history.
Overall, this experience was truly unforgettable, and I can't recommend Elective Abroad enough. One thing is for sure—I will definitely be returning to India!
Anne Riordan
University of Dublin
Tanzania Medical Elective
Working overseas has always been a lifelong dream, and discovering Elective Abroad made it a reality. From the moment I came across their website, I was intrigued by their elective placements. After speaking with the Elective Abroad team, I knew I had to go. Naturally, I had some concerns about safety, but the staff addressed them professionally, and I was truly impressed by their support and reassurance.
Upon arriving in Arusha, I took some time to settle in before exploring the town to get familiar with my new surroundings. Valerie, who leads the Elective Abroad program in Arusha, did an amazing job showing me around. The entire team was incredibly welcoming, making sure that even someone like me—who doesn’t travel often—felt right at home. The accommodation was spacious and comfortable, offering a great balance between social interaction and personal privacy.
My hospital placement in Arusha was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The staff embraced us wholeheartedly, making us feel like part of the team. While Kiswahili is commonly spoken, most Tanzanians also speak English, so the language barrier wasn’t as challenging as I initially thought. By the end of my placement, I had even picked up some Kiswahili, which helped me connect with patients and put them at ease.
The medical experience itself was eye-opening. I had the opportunity to perform procedures I wouldn’t typically do elsewhere, like resection and anastomosis. Witnessing firsthand the resourcefulness and dedication of my colleagues in a developing-world setting gave me a profound appreciation for their work. This experience has undoubtedly shaped me into a better clinician.
I would highly recommend Elective Abroad to anyone looking to grow both personally and professionally while creating unforgettable memories. This experience has truly been one I will treasure for a lifetime!
Cynthia Mc'Collins
Florida International University
Nursing Elective Kenya
The most rewarding part of my internship in Mombasa was the feeling of truly becoming part of the medical team and contributing to its growth. Experiencing real-life cases firsthand and learning from dedicated professionals made this journey incredibly enriching. Although my placement was an observership in the nursing program, the entire department was welcoming and eager to teach. In just three weeks, I gained invaluable knowledge and insight that will stay with me throughout my career.
Beyond the hospital, Mombasa itself was breathtaking. The stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and scenic coastal beauty made every moment outside of work just as memorable. The local cuisine had its own unique tropical flavors, and the extracurricular activities—whether exploring historical sites, enjoying the vibrant culture, or bonding with other elective students—were simply amazing. I met incredible people who became like family, making this experience both professionally rewarding and personally unforgettable.
My mentors were incredibly kind and supportive, making my short stay in Mombasa even more special. I truly cherished every moment and cannot wait to return!
Thank you, Elective Abroad, for this wonderful opportunity!
Charles David
University of California, Davis (UCD)
Internal Medicine Elective Tanzania
Coming from the U.S. and never having traveled outside my country in 25 years, I had no idea what to expect when I arrived in Tanzania. But the moment I landed in Arusha, I was completely captivated by the vibrant sights, sounds, and energy of the city—it was an experience like no other.
I was placed at one of Arusha’s major hospitals for my four-week elective, and I had the most incredible hands-on learning experience. The tropical cases I encountered were unlike anything I had seen before, and I gained invaluable skills and knowledge from the dedicated doctors and nurses. I split my time between two weeks in Internal Medicine and two weeks in Surgery, allowing me to get a well-rounded perspective of both specialties. The medical team was incredibly positive, supportive, and eager to teach, making my learning experience even more fulfilling.
Beyond the hospital, Arusha had so much to offer. The culture, food, and local way of life were fascinating to explore. My accommodation was comfortable, and having my own room made it even better. Plus, its location made weekend adventures easy—whether it was visiting nearby national parks, exploring the local markets, or simply soaking in the beauty of Tanzania.
This was truly a life-changing experience, and I’m so grateful I chose Elective Abroad for my internship. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to gain global medical experience while immersing themselves in a new culture.
Thank you, Elective Abroad, for this unforgettable opportunity!
Mark Robinson
UCLA
Obstetrics & Gynecology Elective Jaipur
I spent the first two weeks of January 2025 in Jaipur, and what can I say? Words can't fully capture the experience I had!
First and foremost, the accommodation was comfortable, and the food was absolutely delicious. Eating out was also very affordable, making it easy to explore the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine.
During my two-week hospital placement, I had weekends off to explore, which made the experience even more fulfilling. The knowledge and hands-on experience I gained were completely different from what I was used to, making this elective truly unique. The staff were incredibly welcoming, and I learned so much from them. Working in the Obstetrics & Gynecology department was eye-opening, especially in a developing country where cases can be more complex, but the level of care and dedication was inspiring. I had the incredible opportunity to participate in multiple deliveries—it was simply amazing!
Outside of the hospital, exploring Jaipur was just as memorable. The city’s rich history, magnificent palaces, and vibrant bazaars made every moment unforgettable. Visiting places like Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal, and Nahargarh Fort was truly breathtaking—there’s nowhere else in the world quite like it!
All in all, my placement in India was an overwhelming and life-changing experience. Huge thanks to Elective Abroad for making it all possible!
Joan Micha
Kings College London
Dental Elective Tanzania
Hello everyone! My name is Joan Micha, and I completed my four-week dental elective in Tanzania with Elective Abroad. I split my time between Arusha and a more rural placement because I wanted to experience dentistry in both an urban and remote setting in a country I had never been to before.
Arusha was vibrant and full of life—I was amazed by the bustling city, the friendly people, and the rich culture. Almost everyone spoke English, and the social scene was surprisingly lively! The city had great restaurants, markets, and even nightlife that rivaled what I’ve seen in major cities back home. The rural placement, on the other hand, was breathtaking. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, it offered a peaceful and immersive experience into Tanzanian life.
I was placed in two teaching hospitals, where the staff was incredibly welcoming. My supervisor took the time to explain everything thoroughly, ensuring I gained valuable hands-on experience. Meeting other elective students from different parts of the world made the cultural exchange even more enriching—it was truly an incredible learning experience.
The food in Tanzania was absolutely delicious, and our accommodation was peaceful and clean. One of the best parts? We had laundry service and WiFi, so I was never too far from my Netflix!
This elective was beyond amazing, both professionally and personally. Huge thanks to Elective Abroad for making this experience unforgettable!
Meera Shah
Kenyatta Medical University
India Dental Elective
During my six-week elective in India, I completely fell in love with the country—the vibrant culture, the people, and, of course, the incredible dental experience. Working with Elective Abroad gave me invaluable hands-on training and boosted my confidence as a future dentist.
I had the opportunity to rotate through all major departments, including Oral Surgery, Endodontics, Prosthodontics, and Pediatric Dentistry. Each rotation provided unique learning experiences, and the knowledge I gained has proven to be an essential part of my final year of dental school. The mentorship and support from the hospital staff were outstanding, making this elective truly worthwhile.
But this program wasn’t just about work—it was also about experiencing the best of India! From exploring bustling markets to indulging in delicious Indian cuisine and visiting breathtaking historical sites, every moment was unforgettable. I made lifelong friendships and incredible memories along the way.
I would highly recommend this elective to anyone looking to enhance their dental skills while immersing themselves in a beautiful and culturally rich country. Thank you, Elective Abroad, for this amazing experience!
Christina Tucker
University of Miami
India Dental Elective
My name is Christina, and I am excited to share my experience with Elective Abroad during my Dental Program in Jaipur, India. I participated in a 4-week elective in December 2024, and it was truly an unforgettable journey!
Everyone always asks me about the key aspects—how was the food? Was the hospital good? Were the doctors helpful? Was the mentor supportive? Was the accommodation safe and comfortable? And most importantly, did the WiFi work well?
Let me sum it up—this program exceeded all my expectations! I learned more about Dentistry here than I had in any other elective placement before. I even had the incredible opportunity to present my own topic to a panel of senior doctors and chiefs. One of the highlights was taking part in a medical camp in a rural village, where I was able to provide dental care to underserved communities. It was an eye-opening and rewarding experience.
Now, for the logistics—everything was well-organized. I was picked up from the airport on time, and my accommodation was in a lovely guest house with other international students, which made the experience even better. Plus, I had my own room! Indian food was absolutely delicious, and I enjoyed a feast every day. And yes, the WiFi was excellent—my mom never complained once when I FaceTimed her!
Jaipur is such a beautiful city, rich in history and culture, with the friendliest people. My mentors were incredibly supportive and made my stay comfortable and enjoyable.
I highly recommend Elective Abroad to anyone considering a Dental or Medical Elective in Jaipur. For the price I paid, I definitely got great value, and the experience was truly priceless!
Matthew Ta
McMaster University
Kenya Medical Elective
Hey everyone! My name is Matt, and I’m a medical student from Canada. I was incredibly fortunate to complete my elective with Elective Abroad in Mombasa, Kenya.
I did my placement at Coast General Teaching & Referral Hospital, where I rotated through several medical disciplines, including internal medicine, emergency medicine, and surgery. My daily responsibilities involved taking patient histories, conducting physical exams in the ER, rounding on inpatients in the general medicine wards, and assisting in minor surgical procedures. I also had the rewarding experience of participating in community outreach clinics, providing free checkups for hundreds of orphans and children in underserved areas.
Practicing medicine in Kenya was an eye-opening experience. While it shared some similarities with home, there were also many differences. Resources were often limited, and I quickly learned to appreciate the basics like gloves, hand sanitizers, and face masks, which weren’t always available. With minimal reliance on technology, I had to depend on my clinical knowledge and memory instead of looking things up instantly. The doctors I worked with were incredibly knowledgeable, keeping up with the latest international guidelines while also mastering the art of improvisation to overcome daily resource challenges. What stood out the most was how deeply grateful the patients were for any care provided—this was a stark contrast to the entitlement often seen in Western healthcare. It was also amusing to find that many doctors here had surprisingly neat handwriting, something rarely seen back home! Most importantly, this experience reignited my passion for medicine. In Western healthcare, administrative and financial pressures often overshadow patient care, but here, it was all about helping those who truly needed it, making it a deeply fulfilling experience.
Accommodation was fantastic! I stayed in comfortable student housing in a nice area of Mombasa, alongside other international students. My room was spacious and equipped with a mosquito net, and we had a shared kitchen with a cook, a large dining area, and even a pool! Outside of my elective, I made the most of my time in Kenya. I went on safaris, tried kite surfing, went snorkeling in the Indian Ocean, and after my elective, I even traveled to Tanzania to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro!
Overall, this elective was an incredible experience, both professionally and personally. I would highly recommend Elective Abroad to any medical student looking for a challenging, eye-opening, and rewarding elective in Mombasa!
Radha Measuria
University of Liverpool
Kenya Medical Elective
Jambo! My name is Radha, and I’m a fourth-year medical student from the UK. I chose to do a four-week elective at Coast General Teaching & Referral Hospital in Mombasa, Kenya, and it was the best decision I made! I learned so much from the doctors, patients, and their families, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in a low-resource setting.
Coming from the National Health System, I wanted exposure to a healthcare system where resources were limited, and doctors had to work with what was available. That is exactly what I got. Every single day, I learned something new—whether it was a skill, a procedure, or a condition I had never encountered before. The doctors were eager to teach, welcoming me into their team and valuing my input. I had assumed that medical practice here would be vastly different, but in reality, the knowledge and treatment guidelines were largely the same. The difference lay in how doctors adapted to challenges, working within the constraints of what patients could afford. Since this was a government hospital, patients had to pay for their treatment and investigations, which often meant doctors had to adjust their management plans accordingly. Despite the basic setup, the level of care they provided and the number of patients they treated daily was nothing short of incredible.
During my elective, I rotated through internal medicine, obstetrics & gynecology, pediatrics, and the emergency department. These rotations gave me a broad understanding of healthcare in Kenya. At first, I was unsure how I would react to the conditions of a government hospital in a developing country, but thanks to Elective Abroad, I felt completely prepared. From the moment I started planning my trip, the team was in constant communication, answering all my questions and making sure I knew exactly what to expect. While the hospital had a structured approach with designated hours and logbook completion, I came to appreciate how well-organized it was and how much the team wanted me to gain from the experience. They personalized my elective based on my goals, adjusting it along the way to ensure I achieved everything I wanted. For instance, after becoming comfortable with IV insertions and blood draws in my first week, I wanted more suturing practice, and I was able to get just that in the emergency department. The more initiative I showed, the more opportunities I had, and I was able to do far more than I ever expected!
Outside the hospital, I truly got to experience Kenya. Although delicious meals were provided, I made sure to explore local cuisine, guided by the amazing host family I stayed with. They took me to the best places to eat, and I never got sick once! Transportation to and from the hospital was well-organized, with friendly and knowledgeable drivers who not only ensured our safety but also taught us about the area and even some Swahili. Within the hospital, my mentor ensured I was maximizing my learning, and the doctors were so welcoming, often inviting us to explore the city with them. I never felt alone or unsafe.
When it came to activities outside the hospital, I had the freedom to organize my own adventures, but Elective Abroad was always there to offer recommendations and help get the best deals. I personally love nature more than typical tourist attractions, so I spent time hiking, going on beach walks, and even completing a kite surfing course! Being a huge foodie, I also made it my mission to try as many local delicacies as possible. There was never a dull moment, and I truly made the most of my time in Mombasa.
My biggest advice? Bring lots of mosquito repellent and take full advantage of the Elective Abroad team. I asked them a million questions before and during my trip, and they were always happy to help. Their guidance made my trip smooth, successful, and truly enjoyable. Once you're there, immerse yourself fully—engage with doctors, talk to patients, and understand their experiences. You’ll be amazed at the resilience and positivity of the people you meet. This is not about pity—it’s about recognizing a developing country’s incredible progress and appreciating the hard work of its people.
I am so grateful for this experience and can’t wait to embark on my next adventure with Elective Abroad. If you’re considering an elective in Kenya, I highly recommend Coast General Hospital—it will be an experience you’ll never forget!
Wirada Phonphaisan
Shanghai Medical College
Kenya Medical Elective
I am a sixth-year medical student, and my elective at Coast General Teaching & Referral Hospital in Mombasa, Kenya, was an incredible experience. Kenya is an amazing place to visit, and I highly recommend Elective Abroad to anyone considering an elective in Africa.
Traveling alone, I felt completely supported. Everything—from my airport pickup to hospital placement, accommodation, and transport—was smoothly organized, allowing me to focus on learning. The hands-on experience was invaluable, and I was able to see unique medical cases while working closely with doctors.
This was my second visit to Kenya through Elective Abroad, and once again, I was amazed by the warmth of the people and the beauty of the country. The program exceeded my expectations, providing both clinical exposure and the chance to explore Kenya.
A huge thank you to Elective Abroad for making this an unforgettable experience!
James Walker
Brown University
Internal Medicine Elective Tanzania
Before coming to Tanzania, I had never traveled outside my home country, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, from the moment I landed in Arusha, I was captivated by the energy, culture, and warmth of the people. It was an experience that completely changed my perspective.
I was placed at Mount Meru Regional Hospital for my four-week elective, and it exceeded all my expectations. I spent two weeks in internal medicine and two weeks in surgery, which gave me a diverse and hands-on experience. The doctors and nurses were incredibly supportive, always willing to teach, and I learned so much from them. Seeing and managing conditions I had only read about in textbooks was eye-opening, and the resourcefulness of the medical teams was truly inspiring.
Outside the hospital, my time in Tanzania was just as memorable. The food, the culture, and the beautiful landscapes made every day an adventure. My accommodation was comfortable, and I had my own room, which was great for unwinding after long hospital shifts. On weekends, I explored the city and even got to go on a safari—an experience I’ll never forget!
Choosing Elective Abroad for my placement was the best decision I made. The program was well-organized, and I always felt supported. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a challenging yet rewarding elective experience in Africa!
Hana Takahashi
The University of Melbourne
Nursing Elective Tanzania
My name is Hana Takahashi, and I am a nursing student from The University of Melbourne, Australia. Choosing to do my elective placement in Arusha, Tanzania, through Elective Abroad was one of the best decisions I have ever made. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed by the friendly locals, and I immediately felt at home.
I was placed at Mount Meru Regional Hospital, where I had the chance to work closely with local nurses and doctors in different departments. Every day was a new learning experience, from assisting with patient care in the maternity ward to observing emergency cases in the busy casualty department. The hands-on experience I gained in wound care, maternal health, and pediatrics gave me skills and confidence that I would never have gained in a classroom. Seeing how healthcare professionals adapted to working with limited resources was truly inspiring, and I developed a deep appreciation for their resilience and dedication.
Outside of the hospital, my time in Arusha was just as memorable. My accommodation was comfortable, and I had my own room, which was a great place to relax after long shifts. The local food was amazing, and I loved exploring the city and its markets. On weekends, I went on a safari and even got to see Mount Kilimanjaro up close—it was an unforgettable experience!
I am so grateful to Elective Abroad for organizing such a well-structured and rewarding program. This experience has shaped me both professionally and personally, and I would highly recommend it to any nursing student looking for a challenging yet fulfilling elective abroad!
Olivia Bennett
The University of Texas
Midwifery Program in Mombasa, Kenya
My name is Olivia Bennett, and I am a midwifery student from The University of Texas, USA. Choosing to do my elective placement in Mombasa, Kenya, through Elective Abroad was one of the most eye-opening and rewarding experiences of my life.
I was placed at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital, where I worked alongside local midwives and doctors in the busy maternity ward. Every day, I learned something new—whether it was assisting with prenatal checkups, supporting women through labor, or helping with newborn care. I even had the opportunity to assist in multiple deliveries, which was an experience I will never forget. The midwives here are incredibly skilled and compassionate, and I was amazed by their ability to provide excellent care despite working with limited resources.
Outside of the hospital, my time in Mombasa was just as memorable. My accommodation was comfortable and safe, and I got to meet other students from around the world. The local food was incredible, and on weekends, I explored the stunning beaches, visited historical sites, and even went on a safari.
This experience has shaped me both personally and professionally. I gained hands-on skills, confidence, and a deep appreciation for global healthcare. I am so grateful to Elective Abroad for making this opportunity possible, and I highly recommend it to any midwifery student looking for a life-changing elective abroad!
Emily Rhodes
University of Manchester, UK
Gynecology Program in Arusha, Tanzania
My name is Emily Rhodes, and I am a final-year medical student specializing in gynecology from The University of Manchester, UK. My four-week elective at Mount Meru Regional Hospital in Arusha, Tanzania, was an eye-opening and transformative experience that deepened my understanding of obstetric and gynecological care in a resource-limited setting.
From day one, I was welcomed by a dedicated team of doctors and midwives who were eager to involve me in patient care. My days were filled with ward rounds, assisting in deliveries, managing antenatal and postnatal cases, and observing gynecological surgeries. The learning environment was incredibly supportive, and I was encouraged to take an active role—whether it was performing cervical screenings, conducting ultrasounds, or assisting in emergency C-sections. One of the most impactful experiences was witnessing how the team managed high-risk pregnancies with limited access to advanced medical equipment. Their ability to adapt and provide excellent care with what was available was truly inspiring.
A major challenge I encountered was the accessibility of healthcare for patients. Many women arrived in labor after traveling long distances, often with complications that could have been managed earlier with better prenatal care. This experience reinforced the importance of early intervention and patient education, and I had the opportunity to participate in maternal health workshops that aimed to improve awareness about safe pregnancy practices.
I also gained a new perspective on patient communication. Language barriers sometimes made it difficult to gather full histories, but the midwives and nurses helped bridge the gap, and I learned to rely on observation and clinical judgment in ways I never had before. Despite the challenges, the gratitude and resilience of the patients were incredibly moving.
This elective pushed me beyond my comfort zone and strengthened both my clinical and interpersonal skills. I left Arusha with a renewed passion for women’s health and a deep respect for the healthcare professionals working tirelessly to provide care in challenging conditions. I highly recommend Elective Abroad to any gynecology student looking for a truly immersive and hands-on learning experience.
