The past week was spent in Pittsburgh with family and
friends. Although cliché, I will say that it was great to be with loved ones
for the holiday season. Grateful is a feeling that I continually strived to keep nearby.
Before I became too comfortable, however, it was back to the
airport—a place that is beginning to feel like a second home to me. For as much as I
love to travel, I really do not enjoy the process of flying (worth it, however).
My mom dropped me off on Wednesday afternoon, where I met my
friend and pharmacy classmate, Ryan. Though I often prefer traveling solo, this
is one adventure that I am thankful to have a companion for (both from a
company and safety perspective). Ryan and I sailed through check-in and
security, equally excited to reach our final destination: Lilongwe, Malawi. There
was no knowing what the small south-African country would hold in store for us.
Out of all of my previous travels, I expect this venture to bid the most culture shock. Aside from a brief tour through Morocco during my semester in Spain, this will be my first time on the vast African continent. Malawi, referred to as the “warm heart of Africa,” is one of the poorest nations in the world. This truth should offer an eye-opening experience in itself. Since the beginning of pharmacy school, I sought out the selfless reward that stems from working with underserved populations. Accordingly, it is the key rationale behind my decision to pursue this unique rotation. I am curious to see what influences this month-long experience will have on my personal and professional life.
