By Julia de Sousa
In December of 2025, International Medical Outreach (IMO), a registered student organization at the University of Central Florida, completed its third annual medical outreach trip to India. During this fourteen-day trip, eight students participated in medical shadowing and cultural immersion in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, formerly known as Aurangabad. The students were split into different specialties, such as obstetrics, cardiology and anesthesiology, within Dr. Hedgewar Rugnalaya hospital. Their daily itinerary included observations in pre-operative, operative and post-operative procedures.
In obstetrics, students were able to observe vaginal deliveries, cesarean sections, hysterectomies, and other gynecological procedures. They were deeply touched by its joys and challenges. One member was brought to tears after watching a baby boy being born. He later mentioned that being able to share a bit of that experience with the doctors and the parents was an incredible honor.
In cardiology, members witnessed complex procedures. They were able to watch open-heart surgeries, such as valve replacements and bypass surgeries. Another member shared that she felt emotional seeing a beating heart for the first time.
In anesthesiology, members were able to participate in so many different surgeries. They were able to watch tumor removals, spinal surgeries, appendectomies, and more. One member stated that it felt so special to be the one of the last people the patient sees as they go under and the first as they wake up again.
Other than the incredible teaching experience provided by the doctors and staff of Dr. Hedgewar Rugnalaya hospital, the members also had the amazing opportunity to be immersed in the Indian culture. They participated in many events with medical students from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, including a culture exchange night.
International Medical Outreach is entirely student-led, and these projects do not come together alone. With unwavering commitment and support from The India Center, student projects such as this are made possible.