It’s Anna’s first day as an intern with the Student Affairs Team here in Lima, Peru! Over the next two months, Anna will be working to support MEDLIFE’s field work, as well as helping to raise awareness about MEDLIFE’s work across universities in Australia. Learn a bit about Anna here:
Tell us a bit about yourself:
My Name is Anna and Im a student from Sydney, Australia! I’m doing a double degree in liberal arts and majoring in psychology, politics and geography. I’m set to finish studying in mid-2013. When I finish my studies, like many students, I’m not completely sure of what career path I’m going to take, but I am currently looking towards international development and poverty reduction, possibly in an international organization. I have always been interested in this arena, particularly because I feel that there is huge potential to make a great difference in the lives of many. Whenever I have the chance I Love to travel, hang out with friends, take photographs and — as a typical Australian — I love the beach!
How did you get involved with MEDLIFE?
I first discovered MEDLIFE through an email I received from the University of Sydney. It advertised internship positions with MEDLIFE where students would have the chance participate in the organization, helping both with their mobile medical clinics and with administration. After some further research about the organization, I was really interested in such a position particularly because of MEDLIFE’s culturally sensitive approach to helping low-income communities in Latin America, but also because it mobilizes student groups and makes them aware of their ability to help communities in need.
What was your first impression of Lima?
Although I haven’t been here long, I think my first impression of Lima was that it is a very busy, warm and exciting place to be. There aren’t as many tourists as I expected and, although its daunting not speaking Spanish, I have found the locals pretty friendly.
What are you most looking forward to during your internship?
Firstly, I’m really looking forward to increasing my awareness of disadvantaged communities, and ways in which they can be helped. I think that was the main reason I chose to apply for the internship and become involved with MEDLIFE. Also, I think it’s a really exciting opportunity to live in a foreign, non-English speaking country for two months — I am hoping to learn some spanish while here! It may be difficult at times, but I think it’s really important to step out of your comfort zone, and delve into the unfamiliar. I think immersing yourself in new experiences is the best way to learn.
Tell us an anecdote from your experience with MEDLIFE thus far:
When I first arrived I was greeted at the airport by one of the MEDLIFE staff. Despite Spanish being her mother tongue, she was able to make me feel welcome and at home right away. This experience has been echoed with all the MEDLIFE staff members I have met. Everyone is so welcoming, thoughtful and willing to help out. I know I’m going to have a great time over the next couple of months.
