Challenging myself in an unfamiliar environment on a Dental internship in Zanzibar

Dental internships in Zanzibar provide a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in dentistry while making a real impact. Interns shadow and assist local dentists with general clinical check-ups and oral health promotion, learning directly from experienced professionals and deepening their understanding of diverse dental practices.

Eager to enhance her practical dental skills and explore how healthcare operates in under-resourced communities, Randi embarked on a transformative five-week internship abroad in Zanzibar. Read on to discover how this experience shaped her perspective and strengthened her passion for dentistry.

Hi Randi, why did you choose to apply for this internship abroad?

I was motivated to apply by my desire to expand my clinical exposure in a meaningful real world setting while experiencing a new culture. I am currently a Biology and Chemistry minor with a Pre-Dentistry concentration. As a rising senior, I have shadowed a few dentists and doctors and have 60 shadowing hours in the United States. I am currently studying for my DAT and preparing for my next steps to dental school.

For this, I would like to gain a deeper knowledge on global perspectives by immersing myself in other cultures and experiencing life beyond the United States. I choose to experience an international dentistry internship, to grow personally and professionally, as I’m passionate about the dental field and committed to pursuing a dental career for the rest of my life.

How did you find settling into your first week in Zanzibar?

My experience during the first week differed from what I initially imagined in several important ways. Before arriving, I expected more hands-on opportunities than I would typically have in the United States, noticeable cultural differences, and some degree of culture shock.

While these expectations proved accurate, what surprised me most was the pace of life. Although things moved much more slowly than I was accustomed to, the work was still carried out efficiently and with clear intention.

One of the most memorable aspects of my first week was the hands-on experience I gained while working with limited resources. I was able to assist with tasks and procedures that I would not have had the opportunity to perform in the U.S.

Learning to carry out these responsibilities with fewer tools and instruments was a humbling experience. It pushed me to adapt, problem-solve, and truly make use of what was available rather than relying on ideal conditions.

What kind of dental tasks were you involved in?

As a dental intern, I assisted with patient preparation, observed clinical procedures, provided basic chairside assistance, and supported patient communication. I learned how care was delivered in a public hospital setting and helped support day-to-day operations by streamlining patient flow and bridging minor communication gaps.

My presence allowed local staff to focus on clinical duties while I managed small but essential tasks that saved time and helped patients feel more comfortable. This support benefited the organization by improving efficiency, enhancing the patient experience, and contributing to the clinic’s educational environment.

How has your dental internship supported your long term career goals?

This internship directly connected to my long-term goal of becoming a dentist. I gained exposure to patient care in a global setting and learned how oral health intersected with cultural, economic, and public health factors.

I practiced communicating across language and cultural differences, observed clinical procedures, and developed an understanding of how treatment decisions were made with limited resources. These were skills I could apply to dentistry in any setting, particularly when working with diverse patient populations.

The experience also reinforced my desire to continue working and learning internationally and showed me that cultural competence was just as essential as technical skill.

What elements of local life in Zanzibar challenged you?

I was personally challenged by differences in how procedures were performed and by the overall pace of daily life. Initially, I felt confused and somewhat concerned when tasks were carried out differently than what I was accustomed to seeing in the United States.

I had to remind myself that just because something was done differently did not mean it was being done incorrectly. Adjusting to limited resources and unfamiliar methods required me to let go of assumptions I had formed based on U.S. standards.

I also found the differences in living arrangements, transportation, and daily routines challenging at first. Although I had anticipated these differences, experiencing them firsthand required patience and flexibility.

What visible and invisible barriers did you encounter?

One visible barrier I encountered was the limitation of resources, which required me to adjust how I approached tasks and procedures. Working with fewer tools than I was accustomed to initially created uncertainty and required a shift in mindset. Differences in pace and workflow also took time to understand and adapt to.

Invisible barriers included assumptions shaped by my prior experiences in the United States. At first, I questioned whether procedures were being performed correctly simply because they differed from what I was used to.

Overcoming this required self-reflection and a reminder that different did not mean wrong. Recognizing and addressing these internal assumptions was essential in developing cultural competence and in learning how organizations functioned effectively within their own cultural and environment.

What was one of your favorite memories from your time in Zanzibar?

My favorite memory was living with my host family and feeling truly part of their home. I loved getting to know them, sharing meals, and having people to greet when I returned each day. I also enjoyed expanding my circle beyond the internship through the other students in the program and making new friends along the way.

Do you have any advice for those considering an internship abroad with us?

Go into the experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn. It is important to observe first rather than assume, especially when you are unfamiliar with cultural norms or expectations.

Being respectful, curious, and adaptable goes a long way in building positive relationships. Ask questions when appropriate and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Take the time to understand local customs, communication styles, and values. Most importantly, approach the experience with humility and respect.

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