Seema Patel |
| Country of Service |
| Botswana |
| Dates Served |
| 2006 - 2008 |
| Volunteer Position |
| Community Health Volunteer |
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| Description of main volunteer activities: |
I lived and worked in New Xade - a remote San resettlement village by the western border of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
My primary work was with orphaned and vulnerable children and youth (OVC’s), as well as their caregivers. Partnering with the local social worker, clinic, primary school, and community leaders, I worked to improve provision of services to OVC’s – particularly psychosocial support services. We were able to form an OVC support group and developed income generating poultry and bead-making projects for the caregivers and out-of-school youth. Working closely together, we were able to address health issues devastating New Xade including misconceptions about HIV, the physical and social impacts of alcoholism, and the challenges and benefits of good nutrition. |
| How Peace Corps service influenced decision to go into nursing and future plans: |
My interest was always in community health. However, while conducting home-visits with both social workers and nurses, I realized how much more effective health education can be when combined with clinical skills and knowledge. Thus it was during Peace Corps that my long-time interests in public health turned into nursing aspirations!
Future Plans:
Upon graduation I’d like to remain in Baltimore, dedicating a couple years to honing my nursing skills. Thereafter, I hope to return to rural, under-served communities, such as New Xade – both in the U.S. and abroad. There I hope to provide direct patient care while also working with community members in public health promotion and prevention. |
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