Amelia Manke

Amelia studies Biochemistry at Washington and Lee University in the United States, with an interest in dentistry. She joined VAC in June 2026 and completed a dentistry internship with a South African community dental clinic, where she gained practical clinical experience assisting with cavity fillings and tooth extractions and learned how dentists adapt procedures when working with limited resources.

I absolutely loved this experience. The VAC staff was absolutely amazing and truly made me feel welcome in this amazing country. My internship taught me so much, and I am sad to leave!
One of my goals was to learn new ways of doing procedures that I had seen many times before. Because of the lack of resources, the dentists had to make do with what they had, which taught me new ways of doing things.

The dental clinic helps people in the short term by pulling teeth and fixing cavities, and in the long term by doing preventative cleanings and checks. I was able to help assist with cavity fillings and extractions. My advice for future interns is to go in with an open mind and be ready to learn. Don’t let what other people tell you influence your own opinion. I truly enjoyed my experience.

I especially appreciated the internship placement, the weekly activities, the Culture Series, and knowing that I could call VAC staff if I needed anything.