Helena, MT — Carroll College Associate Professor of Biochemistry Dr. Chrissie Carpenter ’02 is currently leading a group of eight Carroll students on an immersive academic and service experience in Zambia. The group, who departed on May 15 and will return at the end of the month, is engaging deeply in a hands-on exploration of global health systems through the course SA 489: Medicine & Public Health in Zambia.
This unique study abroad course, conducted in partnership with African Impact, introduces students to the culture of Zambia and the country’s healthcare challenges. Throughout their time in Livingstone, students are gaining first-hand experience shadowing professionals in public health clinics and participating in community health education initiatives.
In the program’s first week, students are stationed at local clinics where they observe and assist in a variety of departments, including outpatient care, HIV and TB services, maternity care, and pharmacy operations. They have the opportunity to support medical staff by taking basic vitals and patient histories, thus freeing up healthcare workers to serve a larger number of patients.
The second week emphasizes public health outreach. Carroll students will help deliver workshops on critical health issues such as nutrition, cervical cancer, women’s health, and living with HIV. These workshops provide life-changing education to community members and are designed to encourage sustainable, healthy lifestyle choices.
Woven throughout the program are cultural activities and adventures that enhance the students’ understanding of Zambian society and its health landscape, while also fostering meaningful global engagement.
This program exemplifies Carroll College’s mission to prepare students for lives of purpose and service and reflects the college’s commitment to integrating academic learning with impactful global experiences through the college’s curricular Sed Vitae Experience.
Follow along for photos of the group’s journey on Carroll’s social media: www.facebook.com/carrollcollege.
For more information about global learning opportunities at Carroll, visit carroll.edu/studyabroad.
Carroll College Students Engage in Public Health Program in Zambia
