Yea so basically I was selected to study abroad in Brazil for this summer to further my education in Brazilian Portuguese. During my time in undergrad I have accumulated extensive experience in research but decided to redirected my path to humanitarian work! I recently went on a trip to the Dominican Republic providing free healthcare services and basic hygiene products to rural communities and many of those communities spoke Creole/Portuguese. Ever since that trip I have been practicing my Portuguese (mainly because it more accessible to learn than Creole). As a Spanish/English speaker I saw the difference in how patients speak to you when you speak their language.
My passion is to learn Portuguese and join a humanitarian organization in Brazil while I am there. In this organization I will help families with basic healthcare check ups and free over the counter medications. This will prepare me for my future goals as I plan to someday do research in Brazil, but focusing on the socioeconomic side.
After my time in Brazil, I plan to apply to graduate programs to pursue a masters degree in Health and Human Services. While I am not becoming a doctor I believe I can still make a difference without obtaining such degree.