Meet the wonderful Rachael Fulton, who participated in the VACorps Program in 2019. Rachael graduated with a degree in Biology from McKendree University and has recently started working at a large multinational company. She participated in a medical internship at a public hospital in Cape Town and shares some of her thoughts and highlights of her experiences in South Africa.

How would you describe Cape Town to someone who has never traveled here before?

Breathtaking. From the beautiful places to travel to the people, you get to meet there is never a dull moment. There is always somewhere to go and someone to go with. The experiences you get are like nowhere else on the planet – and I have traveled a lot.

I loved all the people I got to meet and are still in contact with 7 months after I returned home. But most of all I appreciate the VAC team. They are so supportive and give you the true look at all SA has to offer.

Tell us about the work you did at your internship site.

I was able to work at two internship sites. I began my journey at Heideveld Day Clinic. There I was able to observe many of the wards and interact with the patients by taking blood pressures, measuring babies’ weights, helping moms get comfortable in the maternity ward, and much more. I then went to Khayelitsha where I shadowed a doctor in the ER. I was also lucky enough to observe surgeries, help nurses with the vaccination of school kids, and get to know many of the very knowledgeable nurses and doctors.

What were the highlights of your internship experience in Cape Town?

The highlights of my internships were getting to know the people. I loved being able to interact with nurses, doctors, and patients. Everyone was so open to letting me help where needed and sharing their knowledge and stories with me. It was amazing watching their dedication to their work.

What were some of your favorite aspects of South African culture?

I love that South Africa is such a melting pot of unique people. Everyone is so open and willing to talk and get to know you as well as share their stories. There is no judgment and they take pride in their laid-back and loving lifestyle, which I admire so much. I also loved the food! There is so much to try and the Braais and food markets are incredible. I also really enjoyed the outdoor activities and how everyone was happy to try so many new things.

With that being said, I think my favorite part was the relationships I built while there. I was able to enjoy some amazing scuba diving experiences, jump out of a plane, love on elephants, and live in the moment for the first time in a long time with so many people I came to adore.

What have you learned about yourself after your time in South Africa?

I learned who I really am. There are so many pressures in America and having it all stripped away for a moment where I could truly be me was eye-opening. I know who I am and who I want to be and now that I am home I still strive every day to be that person. I also learned that although I enjoy the medical field, I made the difficult decision to go down another life path and I am forever grateful for that.

What’s the single most important piece of advice you’d like to give to future VACorps interns and/or those considering participation in the program?

Say yes to everything! I am so glad I did. Some of my best memories came from my willingness to try it all. You may have weeks or months, but it really does fly by. Seize every moment.

Any predictions for what we can expect from you in 10 year’s time?

I would love to revisit Cape Town and bring my mom along. I would also love to come back to participate in the Mozambique trip. I have just accepted a position at an international company, so I would love to think that travel will be a large part of the next ten years for me. I will also be going back to school for my Master’s Degree in Genetic Counseling in the near future.