How an Optometry Internship Abroad in Kenya Shaped My Career

Where Are They Now?

In 2021, Daniela Moreno traveled to Mombasa, Kenya, for her overseas placement with Go Elective. Today, she’s completing her pre-registration training in the U.S. as she works toward becoming a licensed optometrist. Daniela credits her time abroad with shaping her studies and giving her a global perspective on eye health.

Why Optometry?

“For me, optometry was the perfect mix of science, problem-solving, and patient care. I love that a simple intervention like fitting a child with glasses can transform their daily life, but the field also challenges you to diagnose and manage complex eye conditions. It’s not only clinical. It’s personal. Helping people regain sight or manage low vision is incredibly rewarding.”

Why Travel Abroad?

Daniela wanted more than a classroom education.

“In the U.S., many eye conditions are caught early. Patients come in for regular check-ups, and public awareness is high. But I knew that in Kenya I’d encounter conditions much further along, cases that had progressed due to limited access to care. I wanted to see how clinicians worked in those situations and how they adapted with fewer resources.”

First Impressions of Kenya

“When I arrived, the Go-Elective team was waiting for me at the airport. That immediately put me at ease. The house was welcoming, with other students. We had Swahili lessons twice which really helped me connect with patients and staff. By the second day, I felt at home.”

Clinical Placement in Mombasa

Daniela’s placement focused on ophthalmology and outpatient clinics.

“I spent time shadowing in the eye clinic, where I saw cataracts, glaucoma, corneal ulcers, and diabetic retinopathy. Often at advanced stages. I also observed cataract surgeries and treatments for trauma-related eye injuries, which were much more common than what I’d seen in the U.S.”

One highlight was joining ward rounds with both ophthalmologists and optometrists.

“It was collaborative. Even with fewer resources, the teams worked together seamlessly. I learned so much about making the most of what you have and thinking critically about treatment options.”

A Typical Day

“My mornings usually started in the outpatient eye clinic, where I observed patient assessments. Later in the day, I’d head to the surgical theatre to watch procedures. If something particularly interesting came up, like a trauma case, the Go Elective team made sure I could be there. The flexibility was incredible.”

Lessons Learned

Daniela says her overseas elective pushed her to grow in ways she didn’t expect.

“I became much more confident in approaching patients and asking questions. I also learned the value of cultural competence. Understanding that patients’ experiences, beliefs, and expectations shape how they receive care. That perspective has made me a better future clinician.”

Beyond the Hospital

Weekends were reserved for exploration.

“We took trips to the coast, visited Old Town Mombasa, and went on safari in Tsavo National Park. Balancing the intensity of placement with adventure and cultural experiences made the trip unforgettable. Those memories are just as valuable as the clinical lessons.”

Looking Ahead

Daniela is now completing her pre-reg year and preparing for her board exams, with ambitions to specialize in ocular disease management.

“My time in Kenya solidified my interest in treating complex pathologies. I plan to pursue a Master’s in optometry and eventually work in a hospital setting. Long-term, I’d love to return to global health work and contribute to improving access to eye care.”

Advice for Future Students

“Say yes to the opportunity. You’ll never again have the same freedom to immerse yourself in another healthcare system as a student. Be proactive, ask questions, and soak in every lesson. And don’t forget to enjoy the culture, food, and friendships along the way. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Learn more about pre-optometry and optometry internships abroad and explore how Go Elective’s placements in Kenya and Tanzania can broaden your clinical and cultural perspective.

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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.