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        A typical day in clinic consisted of 10-hour shifts working in small, low-lit back houses with no electricity or running water. I saw children who waited over a month for our group's arrival with the hope of being examined. Most of these children had never seen a white face, or a thermometer, or heard such a strange language as English, yet they were able to put aside their fears and trust in our medical team. It was a privilege for me to help vaccinate these children and increase their chance of survival. My fellow volunteers and I treated over 800 patients the first day and over 1,000 the next with the numbers increasing by the day.

         While in Senegal, I was also able to teach children and parents about proper hand washing techniques and water purifying methods using solar radiation and heat. These simple techniques can drastically decrease the spread of endemic diseases. Being able to spend two weeks with the Senegalese people truly inspired me to want to provide quality and accessible medical care for those who are the most vulnerable and often forgotten about. The majority of underserved populations are suffering from diseases and infections that are easily treatable and can be controlled. Everything starts with education, and I believe this is the most powerful tool that can make a difference. Serving as an educator as well as a health care provider, I would like to dedicate some of my time as a physician assistant to offering classes to the underprivileged populations of my community.

            There is so much to say about being in Africa and its hard to put everything I felt into words. The country of Senegal and its people have changed me in ways I could not have expected. I've learned how unimportant material possessions are and what a blessing life is. It's important to enjoy every moment and to have faith in God. Even in the midst of tragedy, people can still spread love and gratitude. I only hope to spread this message in my future career."

Victoria Kazickas