Child Family Health International (CFHI) - El Cerrito, California

Shelby Cobb

I spent just over 3 months in Accra, Ghana for a global Occupational Therapy fieldwork rotation through CFHI. CFHI was so incredibly helpful in placing me exactly where I needed to be so that I could fulfill my grad school fieldwork requirements as well as be fully immersed in the culture and have the best experience possible. The house I stayed in was in the perfect location and the local coordinator made sure to answer any questions I had and give local recommendations as well. This was an amazing experience in so many ways but the best part was the people I met. I know these will be lasting friendships and I can't wait to return to Ghana in the future.

amy dokiburra

In July 2023, as part of the CFHI Global Health in Ghana fellowship, I had the opportunity to shadow physicians and observe surgical procedures in Paediatrics/NICU and in Surgery at Cape Coast Teaching Hospital. I was even able to be involved in Sexual & Reproductive Health and Rights community outreach initiatives a local clinic.

I gained an unparalleled understanding of clinical case management, preventative medicine, and public health & social advocacy efforts! I also made the dearest friends and mentors who inspire me to be just as dedicated as they are throughout my (many, many, many more) years of education and service. I also got to travel and enjoy all the natural wonder of Ghana.

None of this would have been possible without the CFHI Thomas Hall Scholarship—I will always be grateful for the memories, adventures, and people that this global education trip brought into my life.

Sarah Drapkin

I traveled to Kabale, Uganda for 8 weeks with CFHI and had the most incredible experience. They partner with an incredible local organization there, KIHEFO, which exposed us to all elements of local public health and the innovative solutions they were implementing. I learned a ton, made close connections with local staff, was able to travel the country on weekends, and felt very safe.

The organization has apartments for interns which were clean, comfortable, and a great way to get to know other participants and people working for the organization. Each week we went on outreach trips to surrounding villages helping with nutrition, HIV medications, general clinics, as well as other long term solutions. The doctors allowed us to shadow all procedures while ensuring the patients were respected. Kabale is a great town to be based in, and the tour guides the program recommended allowed me to experience other parts of the country on amazing weekend trips.

Highly recommend for anyone considering global health work!!

Morgan Mathis

My time in the Philippines with CFHI was truly unforgettable. I met incredible people who I know will be lifelong friends. CFHI is perfect for pre-med, public/global health students, and other healthcare professional students. It offers an immersive experience in another healthcare system, with opportunities to shadow professionals, volunteer, and explore a different part of the world. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and enriching experience!

Aliana Castro

I traveled to Córdoba Argentina with CFHI and had the best experience. Charly and Carlos (the on-sight program coordinators) were invaluable as a resource and very passionate about educating us students (both about the language and culture of Argentina). I had a wonderful experience learning Spanish and shadowing in the public health system. I would definitely do another program with CFHI again!

Olivia Johnson

I went to Cape Town, ZA with CFHI June and July 2023. The experience was inspiring and I learned so much about South Africa's unique healthcare system. CFHI offers programs in hospitals and clinics around the world, and I found it to be a great way to shadow for undergraduate/PA/medical students.

Neev Gamble

I had an incredible experience with CFHI last summer (July 2023) in Quito, Ecuador. The program was eye-opening, deeply engaging, and exceptionally well-organized. I highly recommend CFHI to anyone interested in exploring global health or deepening their knowledge in the medical field!

Charmi Shah

I had an amazing time with CFHI in August 2023 where I spent one month in South America (2 weeks in Cordoba, Argentina and 2 weeks in La Paz, Bolivia). From the wonderful host stays to the great balance between medical training, spanish practice, and free time - I would highly recommend this program to anyone pre-health looking for a credible global health experience!