On the heels of another incredible experience for students in the Medical Internship in Morocco Program this winter, the College of Staten Island Center for Global Engagement is expanding the program to run again in the summer of 2025. The experience places students in public university hospitals across three dynamic Moroccan cities: Tangier, Fez, and Marrakesh.
Since its inception in 2016, the program has provided 69 students—27 from CSI, 38 from CUNY, and four from outside of CUNY—valuable rotations in medical specialties including internal medicine, neurosurgery, cardiology, radiology, pediatric emergency care, obstetrics, and more. Under the leadership of CSI Professor of Biology Abdeslem El Idrissi, the program offers students a unique chance to enhance their academic learning while gaining hands-on experience in healthcare settings that differ from those found in the United States.
“One aspect that makes this program unique is the depth to which students are engaged in learning how doctors and hospitals work on a daily basis,” said Dr. Stephen Ferst, Director of the College’s Center for Global Engagement. “This opportunity allows U.S. undergraduate students to experience a hospital from the inside where they gain invaluable insight into their future chosen careers. Outside of the internship, students are exposed to new cultures and ways of thinking, ever expanding their horizons. Without a doubt, this is one of the most transformative experiences an undergraduate will have.”
The program, which ran this winter from January 2-29, includes an enriching cultural experience, with excursions to iconic sites like the Sahara Desert and other popular tourist attractions in Morocco. Students will gain credits through the internship, and the program is open to both CUNY and non-CUNY students. Those interested in applying are encouraged to seek funding options through their financial aid office or external scholarships.
In addition to offering a unique student internship experience, CSI is working on establishing broader academic collaborations with Morocco’s Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) hospitals, including faculty exchanges and research partnerships. The university is also collaborating with the Center for Handicapped in Tangier to explore opportunities in disability studies with the School of Education at CSI.
The program’s rigorous structure allows students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world medical settings, with a focus on developing analytical and interpersonal skills necessary for a successful healthcare career. As part of their internship, students will spend 25-30 hours per week at the CHU hospitals, rotating through different departments under the supervision of both local mentors and CSI faculty.
For those considering a future in healthcare, this international internship provides invaluable exposure to the medical field, setting students apart in an increasingly competitive industry.Top of Form
CSI will conduct a Study Abroad Fair on February 6 in the Center for the Arts for students interested in learning more about the program and application process. Interested students can also visit the CSI Center for Global Engagement office (2A-206) for further information.
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