There is so much to be said about studying abroad! To try to describe our time studying population health in India is to say that India is beautiful, skillful, hospitable, thought provoking and socioeconomically burdened. It is people simply living with the same problems as us, just displayed in different ways or on different scales. The U.S. is an exception to how most people live in terms of comfort and privilege.
Traveling abroad made it clear to see how politics, trade and government regulations affect income, infrastructure, education and social determinants of health. Societal norms significantly influence individual values and perspectives, such as that of status, acceptance, personal responsibility and health priority. It puts into perspective just how frivolous many of our worries are, such as beauty standards and luxuries. It puts into perspective our own political and population health climate and challenges.
I recommend experiencing other cultures firsthand, to appreciate them and get an accurate understanding both of that country and the world. Prior to going to India I heard many negative opinions about safety and pollution. I went in with my expectations being a blank slate, ready to learn what India truly is about. While there, I encountered amazing hospitality and human connection. India being a developing country, and their lack of infrastructure makes sense when you understand the history of British rule and political exploitation. Did you know India is now the most populated country in the world, with 4x the U.S. population, yet the U.S. produces 10x more waste?
We partnered with Christian Medical College’s community health nurses and thanks to their amazing rapport, integrated with and interviewed the communities near Vellore. We performed research on requested topics, such as childhood injuries, malnutrition and HPV vaccination. We were taught their health system, and in return, we presented our research and recommendations to their nursing faculty and Dean.
My advice to anyone wanting to study abroad… learn about the culture, history and norms before you go. Evaluate your realistic acceptable risks and plan regarding exposure to illness, natural hazards, or global unrest. Let go of expectations and come with an open mind. Most importantly, come with a humble appreciation for human connection. These experiences are about an exchange of knowledge and understanding between cultures. You get to be a bridge for humanity.
