Nursing is more than just a profession. It’s a calling. Nurses are often the backbone of patient care, providing critical support in hospitals, clinics, and underserved communities. But before you can take on this essential role, you need real-world experience that goes beyond the classroom.
That’s where pre-nursing internships come in. Whether you’re a college student exploring nursing or preparing to apply for nursing school, an internship—especially abroad—can give you an edge. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how pre-nursing internships work and how to apply for one that aligns with your goals.
A pre-nursing internship is a structured opportunity for students—usually before or during undergraduate nursing studies—to shadow healthcare providers and assist with patient care in clinical settings. These internships can take place locally or internationally, and they help you:
At Go Elective, our pre-nursing internships in East Africa offer immersive clinical experiences in busy hospitals and rural outreach clinics, where you'll work alongside experienced nurses and public health officers.
Healthcare challenges and delivery methods vary greatly between countries. Interning abroad gives you:
Our programs at Go Elective are designed to help you build clinical confidence while exploring East Africa’s vibrant cultures and healthcare systems.
Ask yourself:
Even if you’re just beginning your pre-nursing journey, enthusiasm, professionalism, and a willingness to learn go a long way.
Not all programs are created equal. Look for internships that offer:
Go Elective offers tailored pre-nursing placements that match your academic background and personal interests. Learn more about our nursing internships.
Start with your school’s career center or global health department. They often have partnerships with trusted organizations or offer guidance on:
Many international internship programs, including Go Elective, open applications several months in advance. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
If you’re concerned about affordability, check out our guide on how to fund your internship abroad.
Once accepted:
Our Go Elective team supports you every step of the way with pre-departure orientation, visa support, and 24/7 in-country assistance. You can also reach out to us via hello@goelective.com
Go Elective currently offers pre-nursing internships East Africa. Some of our popular destinations for Pre-Nursing Internships are:
Work at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital, one of the largest public hospitals in East Africa.
Gain community health experience in district hospitals and outreach clinics serving under-resourced populations.
Each program runs from 2 to 12 weeks, giving you flexibility to match your academic calendar or summer break.
A pre-nursing internship abroad isn’t just an impressive line on your resume—it’s an eye-opening experience that builds maturity, adaptability, and compassion.
By stepping into real-world clinical environments and connecting with patients across cultures, you’ll grow both personally and professionally. Whether you're preparing for nursing school or exploring the field, Go Elective’s internships help you stand out in admissions, build global awareness, and start making an impact now.
> Explore our Pre-Nursing Internship Programs or reach out to our team via hello@goelective.com to learn more about upcoming cohorts and how to secure your spot.
Recent Articles , Pre-health, Nursing Internships,
Author: Go-Elective Abroad
Date Published: Jun 15, 2025
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.