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During my summer internship at Machakos County Referral Hospital in Kenya, I had the opportunity to gain firsthand exposure to a clinical and hospital environment. I rotated through several departments, including Internal Medicine, Surgery, Paediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, and the Emergency Department. Throughout the internship, I worked under the supervision of qualified medical officers and participated in activities that allowed me to better understand patient care and hospital operations. My responsibilities included assisting with patient triage and vital signs assessment, shadowing medical officers during ward rounds, and observing clinical decision-making. I also supported maternal and child health clinics, including antenatal care and immunisation services, and participated in community health outreach and patient education initiatives. In addition, I observed laboratory and diagnostic procedures and assisted with patient documentation and record-keeping.
This experience helped me connect my academic background in Biomedical Sciences with real-world clinical practice. Interacting with patients and healthcare professionals strengthened my communication skills and gave me a better understanding of the importance of teamwork, professionalism, and patient-centred care. The internship also helped me identify areas where I want to continue growing, particularly by strengthening my medical knowledge and gaining more experience in clinical settings. Overall, the experience reinforced my interest in medicine and encouraged me to continue pursuing opportunities that prepare me for my future career in healthcare.