Dr. Lance Tatum, President | Northwest Missouri State University
Dr. Lance Tatum, President | Northwest Missouri State University
A Northwest Missouri State University student, Avery Baker, recently completed a four-week internship in Cape Town, South Africa. The senior applied health science major with a sports medicine emphasis sought to gain experience and perspectives for her future career in public health and medical school aspirations.
Baker joined VACorps, an organization that facilitates internships in Africa, and participated alongside students from various countries. She was drawn to study the public health system in Africa to compare it with the privatized healthcare system of the United States.
During her internship, Baker worked in several clinics including a maternal and obstetrics unit and a prenatal care unit. She noted differences such as the lack of privacy and empathy shown by some healthcare workers. "You have to get there at like 7 a.m., and you just sit and wait until whenever they’re ready to see you," she explained about the appointment process.
Baker also shadowed professionals in pediatric clinics and emergency clinics, gaining insights into treating common ailments. Her experience extended beyond clinical settings as she worked at a non-profit counseling center consulting with pregnant women.
The internship provided Baker opportunities for exploration outside work. She engaged in activities such as visiting wineries, hiking, kayaking, exploring caves, and going on safari where she interacted with elephants.
Reflecting on her experiences both abroad and back home at Mosaic Medical Center in Maryville, Baker said it has been an eye-opening journey that will enhance her practice as a caregiver. “Everyone wants the same basic things for their families,” she stated.
Her academic journey is supported by grants from the Maryville Rotary Club. At Northwest Missouri State University, she is actively involved as a student ambassador and member of several organizations including Student Senate and Kappa Omicron Nu honor society.
"Everything that I’ve done here helped me to be more successful while I was in Cape Town," Baker concluded about her time spent overseas.
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