“Yale University Exchange Program Experience”, Dr. Ssenyange George
Embarking on an international exchange program at Yale University School of Medicine proved to be a transformative experience that transcended geographical boundaries, cultural differences, and medical practices. As a medical student coming from Uganda, I found myself immersed in the vibrant academic and clinical environment of one of the world’s leading medical institutions. This exchange not only broadened my medical knowledge but also enriched my understanding of global healthcare, fostering a sense of cultural exchange and collaboration.
My journey to Yale University began in the summer of 2016 during my fourth year of medical school. I was fortunate to be one of two students chosen to represent Makerere University at Yale University for an elective placement in Internal Medicine, following a rigorous and competitive interview process. The day I received the news about my international elective placement at Yale School of Medicine marked one of the most blissful moments of my life. Never before had I envisioned studying in the United States, let alone at one of its premier universities. Little did I know that I was about to embark on a transformative journey that would shape my career for years to come.
As a first-time international traveler, I felt a mix of excitement and anxiety about what awaited me. One thing was certain—I held high expectations and was determined to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, especially considering my humble background. My clinical rotation at Yale New Haven Hospital exceeded my already high expectations. This experience was invaluable in my professional development in the United States, having come from a resource-constrained country. I actively participated in patient care, attended numerous academic conferences, and engaged in medical grand rounds, providing me the chance to meet distinguished health professionals. It deepened my appreciation for evidence-based medical practice, emphasized the importance of teamwork and networking, and rekindled my interest in internal medicine and infectious diseases.
My initial experience as a student exchange visitor at Yale was a phenomenal one. It stands out as one of the best academic environments I have had the privilege to be a part of. The exchange program was a resounding success, devoid of major challenges, thanks to the meticulous planning and facilitation by the Makerere University-Yale University (MUYU) collaboration that funds the program. Our house hosts, Yale faculty, and fellow students were exceptionally supportive, making us feel at home throughout the program.
Empowered with newfound confidence, I initiated and built professional relationships, notably with Dr. Richard Sutton, a professor of medicine at Yale, who later became a pivotal figure inspiring my interest in infectious diseases research. Dr. Sutton extended an invitation for me to return to Yale after completing my medical school and internship for a 6-month research fellowship in his lab. Subsequently, he hired me as a postdoctoral research associate—a position I held for nearly four years. Under his mentorship, I conducted infectious diseases molecular biology research, fostering my aspirations to become an infectious diseases physician scientist.
My professional trajectory has been dedicated to advancing the field of Infectious Diseases molecular biology through rigorous research. Serving as a postdoctoral research associate at Yale University School of Medicine, I conducted impactful research investigations into Infectious Diseases molecular biology, specializing in critical aspects of HIV and SARS-CoV-2 with an unwavering commitment to unraveling the complexities of these infectious diseases. A substantial portion of my tenure at Yale was devoted to researching transcriptional and post-transcriptional control mechanisms for the ccr5 gene in the context of HIV. My significant contributions encompassed the design and creation of numerous plasmid vector constructs, as well as the execution of experiments elucidating these regulatory mechanisms.
My commitment extends to continuing this research in Uganda, with a specific interest in advancing the understanding of HIV molecular biology and immunology. The focal point is on exploring regulatory mechanisms governing the expression of the ccr5 gene and devising strategies to disrupt its expression at the molecular level. The disruption of ccr5, a crucial coreceptor for R5 tropic HIV transmission, holds the potential to significantly advance the global agenda for an HIV cure. I aspire to evolve into an Investigator specializing in Infectious Diseases molecular biology and immunology research. Ultimately, my career goal is to establish and enhance Molecular biology research capabilities in low-income and resource-constrained countries, thereby contributing to the advancement of scientific progress on a global scale.
Reflecting on the past four years at Yale, I am confident that the training and research experience equipped me with the skills needed to become a competent researcher. I had specialized training in Biosafety lab work practices for cell culture encompassing BSL2 and BSL2-enhanced training as well as radiation safety and biomedical waste management training. These competencies were notably showcased in my recent publication as the first author in Cell Reports Methods, where I delved into the intricacies of SARS-CoV-2 cell binding and entry to develop and establish a novel cell-cell transmission assay for SARS-CoV-2. I currently work in clinical trials research as a study medical officer at Makerere University – Johns Hopkins University (MUJHU) Research Collaboration and plan to start my residency in Internal Medicine at Makerere University later this year.
For students considering a medical elective exchange program to the United States from Uganda, the prospect of gaining invaluable clinical experience and exposure to a different healthcare system is truly exciting. Embarking on this journey requires careful consideration and proactive planning. Begin by thoroughly researching the specific program requirements. It is essential to understand the prerequisites and visa processes. Knowing the dynamics of the U.S. healthcare system, medical practices, and cultural nuances is crucial for seamless integration into the clinical environment and community. Engage in open communication with mentors, professors, and program coordinators for insights into unique challenges and opportunities during your elective. Embrace cultural diversity and actively build professional relationships with colleagues, extending beyond the clinical setting. This enriches your experience and contributes to personal and academic growth. While focusing on medical responsibilities, also explore the local community, foster cross-cultural connections, and gain a broader perspective on global healthcare. Lastly, remain adaptable, resilient, and open-minded. These qualities enhance your elective experience and prepare you for a successful future in the medical field.
In conclusion, my international exchange program at Yale School of Medicine was an enriching and eye-opening chapter in my medical education journey. The experience deepened my medical knowledge and fostered cultural understanding, global collaboration, and a commitment to advancing healthcare worldwide. The lessons learned and relationships built during this exchange continue to influence my approach to medicine, shaping me into a more compassionate, culturally competent, and globally aware medical professional. As I return to Uganda, I carry with me the invaluable lessons from Yale, aspiring to make a positive impact on healthcare delivery and medical research in my home country and contribute to the broader global health community.