Finlay Myers

I decided to undertake an overseas placement to broaden my cultural and medical understanding of healthcare in other countries. I wanted to gain firsthand experience with how different healthcare systems operate and adapt to varying resource levels, and Tanzania was the perfect place for these goals.

Work the World eased much of the stress surrounding the trip to Tanzania. Since departing from England, I felt prepared and welcomed by all the team -they have made this trip significantly more enjoyable. The Work from World house felt like home from the moment I arrived. The house has a warm yet luxurious feel — it feels busy but not too crowded, which provides a great support network of friends.

It has been a pleasure and a privilege to meet a diverse range of healthcare students from around the globe. I have made some great friends and memories that will last a lifetime.

On arrival in Dar es Salaam, Agita and Mary warmly greeted us. They instantly made me feel welcome and excited for the trip. Mo, Jackson, Edito, Neema, Hamisi and the rest of the staff have been fantastic – always checking in on us and making the experience as good as possible.

There have been some striking differences between Tanzania and England's healthcare systems. The availability of resources, attitudes towards pain relief, the lack of empathy towards patients, and, in particular, a sense of urgency were striking.

Outside of placement, my housemates and I got up to so much: from Samaki Samaki Wednesdays, food at Slipway, drinks at Coco Beach, playing cards on the terrace, the moon party in Zanzibar, BBQ night in the Work the World house and dancing and socialising with new friends.

One thing that will stay with me forever is the incredible experience of assisting with the delivery of twin babies during my Village Healthcare Week.