Jonai Keys, Class of 2029 - Attending Study Abroad Informational Sessions: Barbados Abroad Informational (2 points)

I attended a study abroad information session led by Dr. Bass, where I learned about a Spring Break opportunity in Barbados designed specifically for pre-medical students. During the session, we were given a detailed cost breakdown of around $1,500, which included being hosted by a university in Barbados. Learning that we would be immersed in an international academic environment made the experience feel both educational and culturally meaningful.

What stood out to me most was that this trip serves as a pipeline into a paid summer study abroad internship. Instead of having to pay for a second experience, students would earn money while gaining hands-on exposure to global healthcare systems. This made studying abroad feel more accessible and purposeful, especially for students interested in medicine.

We also discussed the importance of being a global citizen and how that mindset directly connects to a future career as a doctor. Being a global citizen allows you to understand the world holistically rather than viewing it only through an American lens. It promotes transparent education and helps identify gaps in healthcare across different communities. This understanding can motivate future physicians not only to treat patients but also to teach, advocate, and work toward creating lasting change on a global scale

- Jonai Keys, Class of 2029