How Sarah Raised $2,500 to Fund Her Global Health Internship

Finding the motivation to go abroad

Sarah, a pre-med student from Ohio, had always dreamed of combining her passion for healthcare with her love of travel. After hearing stories from her cousin who volunteered in South Africa, she began researching overseas clinical experiences. That’s when she discovered Go Elective’s global health internships.

“I thought funding would be my biggest barrier,” Sarah explained. “But once I started, I realized fundraising could actually be part of the adventure.”

Mapping out the costs

The first step was creating a budget. Sarah listed everything from her program fee to travel vaccinations, visas, and flights. With a clear total in mind, she launched an online fundraising page to keep track of donations.

“I shared my page on Facebook and Instagram. I expected a few small contributions at best — but in just over a week, I had already raised $1,200.”

Creative fundraising ideas that worked

I. A holiday raffle

Right before Christmas, Sarah organized a raffle with the help of her local community. She posted on a neighborhood Facebook group of 20,000 members asking if businesses would contribute prizes. Within days she had over 30 donations. From gym memberships and bakery gift cards to artwork and even a free car detailing service.

She charged $2 per ticket and directed people to her fundraising page to enter. “The response was incredible. It wasn’t just about the money. It was the community rallying behind me.”

II. Media and community groups

A local newspaper picked up her story, driving even more donations. The Lions Club, a local service organization, contributed $600 on the condition that she return to give a talk about her experience.

The results and lessons learned

By the end of her campaign, Sarah had raised just over $2,500. “Every time a donation came in, I checked another item off my list. One day it was my visa, the next my vaccinations. That kept me motivated.”

Her biggest piece of advice? Start even if you’re unsure. “I never thought I’d reach my goal, but the $5 and $10 donations really added up. You just need to put yourself out there.”

How G- Elective makes it easier

At Go-Elective, we know fundraising can feel daunting. That’s why we provide a fundraising guide packed with practical tips and real student stories like Sarah’s. Combined with our flexible payment options, you can secure your spot with just $400 and pay the rest in installments, financing your trip is more achievable than you think.

An overseas internship is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and with the right planning, you can make it happen too.

Thinking about fundraising for your own internship?

Start by browsing Go Elective’s programs in Kenya and Tanzania, then secure your spot. Once your place is confirmed, you’ll have plenty of time to plan your fundraising strategy and bring your community on the journey with you.

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Go Elective offers immersive opportunities for medical students, pre-med undergraduates, residents, nursing practitioners, and PAs to gain guided invaluable experience in busy hospitals abroad. Discover the power of study, travel, and impact.