Uganda: Julia Heathcock
Program: UW Mobile Clinics & Health Care in Uganda, Summer
Julia’s Major: Microbiology
What is your most memorable experience from your program?
The most memorable experience from my program was getting the opportunity to go out into the Lweza community, where we stayed during our time in Mukono, and meet the individuals residing there. The overwhelming hospitality and kindness that were shown to us really made an impact on me, especially with the children. They were always so happy to see us, running to greet us and welcoming us to their home. I’m so thankful for the relationships I was able to create in the community.
Working alongside various doctors, pharmacists, and lab technicians was an amazing experience, all while helping individuals receive the medical attention they needed.
What is the moment you are most proud of?
I am most proud of the mobile health clinics that my classmates and I assisted with. Working alongside various doctors, pharmacists, and lab technicians was an amazing experience, all while helping individuals receive the medical attention they needed. We traveled to four communities and saw almost 700 patients, from babies to the elderly. This experience also strengthened my teamwork and communication skills, via working in various stations with different professionals and interacting with patients.
How were your program academics similar or different from taking classes at UW-Madison?
My program academics were different from taking classes at UW-Madison, as my experience was much more hands-on and immersive compared to the courses I’ve taken back on campus. As someone interested in global health, it was very valuable to see a foreign healthcare system first-hand and have the opportunity to ask questions to different leaders and providers in Uganda, to compare with the practices we have in the US.
What is your advice for someone considering your program?
I highly recommend this program to others interested in healthcare; it is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Being immersed in Ugandan culture while learning about its healthcare system was incredibly informative, and something I will take with me into my future career in the medical field. It opened the door for me to recognize the resources we have in the United States and learn to utilize them in the most efficient way possible.