FIMRC Spring Break Trip

El Salvador

Ranni Tewfik and Shruti Kumar

March 16-22, 2008

The Foundation for the International Medical Relief of Children (FIMRC) is an international organization that strives to provide access to medical care for the millions of underprivileged and medically underserved children around the world. FIMRC advocates the importance of children’s medical relief, healthcare, and awareness in developing countries across the globe. The Georgia Tech chapter has participated and helped organize several volunteer projects at the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Sheltering Arms daycare, and Atlanta Union Mission.

The FIMRC trip to El Salvador during Spring Break 2008 allowed Georgia Tech students a unique opportunity to work at a pediatric clinic in a developing country. Students worked at the clinic during the day, creating public health initiatives and shadowing Dr. Hector Mauricio Suncin.

Afterwards, we explored the beautiful country of El Salvador by visiting scenic mountains, ancient ruins, and volcanic sites. We also visited a local orphanage, learned about local water treatment facilities, and experienced shopping at a local market. The FIMRC trip truly provided students with an opportunity to experience healthcare options in a different setting and apply their skills to initiate public health programs within the local community in El Salvador.

The President’s Scholarship Program provided us with the opportunity to lead this trip to El Salvador. The Fleet Scholarship helped us enjoy an experience that gave us a glimpse into different facets of the healthcare industry. As aspiring professionals in the healthcare field, this trip provided us with invaluable experiences and insight, which could not have been possible without the support and guidance of the President’s Scholarship Program.