Natalie Friesen
George Washington University
I am currently studying towards my Master’s Degree in Public Health from George Washington University in Washington D.C. I have previously received my Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Minnesota, after which I worked as a pediatric medical social worker in Minneapolis before coming to Namibia to work as a counselor at an after school program.What are the highlights of your Internship with SFH so far?
I am thoroughly enjoying my time with SFH in Namibia. Every day I learn something new and gain a new perspective on public health programming. My favorite component of my internship is attending stakeholder meetings. Within these meetings, I have the opportunity to build relationships with community members and learn from someof the most experienced public health officials from across the world. Through my internship I have learned more about the important role that community and teamwork play in sustainable HIV prevention and treatment programs.Where do you see yourself after your internship time with SFH?
In my future career, I hope to be engaged in global health programming, particularly in the areas of infectious disease and maternal child health. I am hopeful that in my future career, I will have the opportunity to work with community members and colleagues who are as open-minded, innovative, and passionate as those who I have been fortunate to work with here in Namibia.