Study Abroad
Bangkok, Thailand
The summer going into my junior year, I did a pre-health study abroad program located in Bangkok, Thailand. For 5 weeks, I was placed in a health internship, shadowing an Ophthalmologist at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital. In my spare time, I traveled around Northern and Southern Thailand, connecting with the various cultures and people.
I had the unique opportunity to shadow experienced ophthalmologists and spent time observing patients in both clinical settings and cataract surgeries in the operating room. I also had the opportunity to watch a corneal transplant surgery. This hands-on exposure to ophthalmology gave me a deeper understanding of both the technical aspects and the human side of patient care in a diverse medical environment and how it compares to the medical system back home.
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As part of my experience, I also developed a research proposal aimed at exploring the effect of Prostaglandin Analogs on the Central Corneal Thickness of patients with Glaucoma. This project allowed me to analyze published research and present my findings to our group of physicians, residents, and medical students.
One of the highlights of my time in Thailand was attending an ophthalmology conference where I met physicians from India and other parts of the world. At this conference, I listened to their discussions on the future of ophthalmology and its challenges, particularly focusing on the growing issue of antimicrobial resistance in the operating room. Engaging with a global community of medical professionals was both inspiring and eye-opening.
Outside of the hospital, I had the chance to explore the diverse landscapes and vibrant culture of Thailand. In the north, I hiked through forests to climb waterfalls, fed elephants, and stood at the highest point in the country. Meanwhile, the south offered adventures like meeting playful monkeys, rock climbing, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Living in Thailand’s bustling capital, I also embraced the city’s rich offerings, from learning to cook authentic Thai dishes to experiencing the intensity of Thai boxing, ice skating, and go-karting. Every moment spent exploring the city felt like an adventure. Thailand truly changed my life, and I’ve never felt so warmly welcomed in another country before.
International Coursework
HLP4933: International Health Practicum
As part of the UF in Thailand program, I completed a full-time internship in a healthcare setting, where I applied my academic knowledge in real-world scenarios. Throughout the five-week program, I participated in cultural immersions, submitted weekly reports, and completed assignments focused on health disparities in Thailand. I also produced a final reflective paper addressing my observations and proposed solutions for improving healthcare access and equity. This experience enhanced my global perspective on healthcare and prepared me for future career opportunities in the field.​​
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​AEC 4465: Global Leadership
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This course equips me with the personal and professional competencies necessary for effective leadership in a global society. Focusing on global literacy and 21st-century leadership, the course covers key concepts of leadership theory, cross-cultural communication, and leadership practices in multicultural contexts. I have learned the skills to lead in diverse environments, analyze the success of global leaders, and enhance their intercultural proficiency. By the end of the course, I am confident I will feel more be prepared to apply leadership techniques in a global workplace and contribute meaningfully to global challenges.
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PHC3678: Global Health Disparities and Disabilities
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This course explores the global health disparities experienced by people with disabilities, focusing on the health determinants that influence their well-being, particularly in low and middle-income countries. I gained an understanding of the global burden of disease and disability, including both communicable and non-communicable diseases, and the impact of environmental factors and violence. The course also covers the medical and social models of disability, global rehabilitation needs, and the roles of governmental and non-governmental organizations in addressing these disparities. Overall, I gained a deeper cultural self-awareness and an understanding of how local actions impact global health.
International Campus Seminar
In The Footsteps of José Martí Around The World by Emilio Cueto
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I had the privilege of attending the seminar "In the Footsteps of José Martí Around the World," presented by Emilio Cueto, which delved into the profound and enduring legacy of José Martí, the Cuban national hero and intellectual. The seminar explored how Martí's influence has not only shaped Cuban history and culture but also resonated deeply across continents, inspiring individuals and movements worldwide.
One of the most striking aspects of the seminar was the exploration of the numerous statues, portraits, and monuments dedicated to Martí in cities far beyond Cuba's borders. These tributes serve as testaments to his universal appeal and the widespread admiration for his ideals of freedom, justice, and human dignity. It was particularly fascinating to learn about the presence of Martí’s legacy in countries such as Mexico, the United States, and even as far afield as Romania, where a school bears his name. This example, in particular, highlighted the reach of Martí's influence and the ways in which his vision for a better world transcended national boundaries, inspiring individuals from different cultures to embrace his values.
Throughout the seminar, Emilio Cueto's passionate delivery brought Martí's story to life in a way that made his historical significance feel both immediate and relevant to contemporary global issues. His ability to weave Martí's life, writings, and travels into a broader narrative that connects the past with present struggles for freedom and justice was truly captivating. I found myself engrossed not only in the historical details but also in the ongoing conversations about how Martí's thoughts on liberty, equality, and solidarity continue to resonate with people around the world today.
The interactive discussions that followed Cueto’s presentation added another layer of richness to the experience. Audience members from different backgrounds shared their perspectives on Martí’s relevance in their own countries, and the conversation expanded to touch on broader themes of cultural exchange, international solidarity, and the global fight for human rights. It was inspiring to witness how Martí's legacy continues to spark dialogue and inspire action in communities far beyond his birthplace.
This seminar deepened my appreciation for José Martí not only as a Cuban icon but also as a symbol of global resistance against oppression and injustice. His words and actions continue to serve as a beacon of hope for those seeking freedom and dignity, making his legacy timeless and universally significant. I left the seminar with a renewed sense of admiration for Martí's vision and a greater understanding of his role in the ongoing global struggle for justice.