Kessina Vertil

Education Abroad Program: 

Major: Biochemistry

About Kessina: Kessina Vertil is a senior majoring in Biochemistry and she is also on a Pre-Med track. In summer 2023, she participated in the Connect 123 program, which allows students to complete a summer internship in a foreign country in their field. She decided to complete her internship in Cape Town, South Africa and was assigned to one of the nation's top hospitals, Groote Schuur. She spent two months in the cardiothoracic surgery division, shadowing healthcare providers. She is now more certain than ever about choosing a profession in medicine as a result of this encounter. She learned her strengths and what she truly loved via this journey. She recommends all students, regardless of professional route, to complete an international internship since that is when you truly learn more about yourself and determine whether your current field is your calling. 

Advice to Prospective Education Abroad Students: When deciding whether to study or intern abroad, consider the experience and how it will help you develop skills that will help you succeed in your field more than the number of credits. Also, have an open mind about where you end up going because you can find yourself somewhere unexpected that ends up being the best experience you've ever had. I'll help you explore the many programs Penn State has to offer and choose the one that will best serve your objectives. 

To get in touch with Kessina about her experience abroad, please email EducationAbroad@psu.edu and address your email to her!