Mia Ratkiewicz and Alysha Parsons, Sarah Martin
February
Helpful hints from girls plagued by transportation disasters
Finally, he drained our gas tank to bribe the police officer to write a fraudulent police report, leaving us 25 km from a gas station in Cape Maclear. Somehow he is still employed there … after all he said he “had a good ride.” We left him in Cape Maclear.
Liam Sullivan
February
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect upon coming here, but I can certainly say I wasn’t disappointed. Sure, there were times I was frustrated with the hospital and system, but I won’t let that detract from the great experience it was. I am very impressed with the people of Malawi. For a country so poor and wanting for resources, the people are always happy, smiling and friendly. They never seem angry or harbor ill will. I am also amazed by their toughness and perseverance. They certainly outdo most Americans there.
Katie Cashen
February
I leave here with a greater appreciation for simple things like Betadine that we waste in the U.S. and you have to beg for here.
Jennifer Jury
February
Nothing anyone said could have prepared me for all that I experienced. Being here is totally what you make it. I encourage everyone to take their time in Malawi and make yourself an adventure — you don’t have to try too hard. At Queen’s you can see and do things that aren’t possible at home. You will want to laugh, cry and shout at some of the things you see and do. I certainly have a newfound admiration for simple things like proper suture, scissors and good lighting.
Kathy Kopec
April 2007
Our Most Favorite Things in Malawi
Cottage on Zomba Mountain. We stumbled upon this by chance while staying at Ku Chawe Inn. It is located just past Ku Chawe on the same road as the wood carvers market. Look for signs for Montage Cottage. Sleeps 5 people, has kitchen utensils and fireplace, on top of a hills surrounded by beautiful gardens with an amazing view. Call Sato, 01524565.
To everyone who comes in the future, I hope your experience here was as wonderful as mine. You will have so many surreal moments and hilarious adventures. You will feel so alive and grow so much! Enjoy it all — it goes by much too quickly.
Sarah Shaw
March
I have definitely felt a whole range of emotion. I have a huge respect for the people that live here and the daily struggles that they go through. I feel so fortunate to have had this opportunity.
Justin Curran
March
Good eats, good sights, bad allergies. Start drinking the water on day one … you’ll be fine.
Greg Poppas
March
Definitely overwhelming the first week but once you let everything sink in, it is a life-changing experience. Be flexible, be open-minded, stay in the present always and enjoy the beautiful country.
Diane Okuniewski
April
What a perfect way to end your medical school career! I could not have asked for a better experience.
My top things to do in Malawi
Carlsburg tour – lots of free beer and I don’t even like beer.
Rast Raughs in Marawi
April
This experience has helped us grow as physicians, individuals and as a couple. Great times were definitely had, but it was the “inconveniences/adventures” that made us stronger. We hope you take the opportunity to enjoy, grow and learn as much as we did during this experience.
Best advice: