Hello, everyone! As I prepare to head back to the United States later this week, I find myself reflecting on my time here in Gaborone with a mix of gratitude, accomplishment, and a hint of longing for home. These past six weeks have been a whirlwind of research, cultural immersion, and exploration, pushing me outside my comfort zone.
I’ve got to experience a shift in perspective and focus…
Being part of research outside the clinical context has provided a refreshing change of pace from the intensity of the pre-clinical learning experience I went through as a first-year medical student. This experience has allowed me to focus on health from a different perspective, one that emphasizes the broader context in which healthcare operates. I have a public health background, so it was nice returning to my roots!
This week, I spent time in the phlebotomy laboratory at the hospital, observing the lab scientists to understand the sample testing flow for syphilis using rapid plasma reagin (RPR). It’s fascinating to see how the lab processes samples from both the hospital and government-run clinics. During the COVID-19 pandemic, delays in receiving the reagins meant transporting samples to a partner lab in South Africa. This highlights the strong governmental support and collaboration between neighboring countries, which is crucial for public health.
I got to engage with the community…
Earlier this week marked my last outing with my research team, where we visited a local reproductive/OBGYN clinic to recruit and interview participants for our study on male engagement with PrEP. It was eye-opening to conduct interviews with pregnant women and their partners. Some participants hailed from neighboring Zimbabwe and South Africa, further emphasizing how regional and ethnic communities are interconnected, transcending the colonial-era boundaries that have created the countries that we see on our maps today.
I look forward to supporting this project from afar, knowing that the insights gained here will contribute to broader health initiatives. I’ve really appreciated working with a group of Tswana locals, who have taught me a lot about the culture of Gaborone and Botswana. They’ve given me great tips from where to eat, where to get the best Tswana German print fabric (known as leteisi), and places to visit around Gaborone.
I was also able to have some play time and connect with nature…
Amidst the research, I’ve also enjoyed memorable experiences outside of work. My journey began with a long layover in Zurich, where I strolled through charming streets, admired stunning architecture, and relaxed on a boat of Lake Zurich.
I’ve been captivated by the beautiful landscape, lush gardens, and diverse greenery that I’ve seen all throughout region. I loved visiting the lively local favorite restaurant Bull and Bush, taking in the peaceful greenery at the Tea Garden in the Sanitas Plant Nursery, getting work done at the Daily Grind café among other professionals, taking a pottery class at the infamous Gabane pottery, and soaking in the citywide views from Table50two, a rooftop restaurant.
One of the unforgettable highlights of my adventure was exploring Chobe National Park in northern Botswana through thrilling game drives and water safaris. I’ll always cherish the exhilarating moment when a lion strolled right past my safari truck, locking eyes with me. Witnessing adorable baby animals snuggling up to their mothers in the bush was equally heartwarming. And let’s not forget the breathtaking experience of visiting Victoria Falls—one of the original Seven Wonders of the World. The magic of seeing rainbows and feeling the refreshing mist from the majestic waterfall was truly awe-inspiring.
This journey has enriched my understanding of research, cross-cultural exchange, and the beauty of Botswana and the southern African region! This really deepened my connection with nature. I leave Gaborone feeling immensely grateful for the experiences and the meaningful connections I’ve made along the way. Thank you for joining me on this adventure—I can’t wait to share more insights and reflections as I transition back home!
