Lauren Welch
Global Nursing Fellow
Country of focus: All PIH global sites
Host Organization(s): Partners in Health Global Nurse Executive Fellowship (PIH GNEF)
Faculty Mentor: Alison Ercole, MSN, BA, CRNP, PMHNP-BC
Fellowship Start/End Date: May 2022 - November 2022
Why were you interested in the Penn Global Nursing Fellowship opportunity?
I had previously worked in Global Public Health and was interested in returning to the work and was grateful for the opportunity to do so through a Global Nursing Fellowship.
How were your background and skills the right match for the needs of your host organization?
I had five years’ experience in project management and monitoring and evaluation, while living and working in Rwanda.
How did your Fellowship experience meet, exceed, and/or fall short of your expectations?
It was wonderful to work with Partners in Health – I respect the mission and organization immensely. Unfortunately, my expectations were not met around communication and flexibility while I finished my coursework.
Do you feel you made an impact on the work of your host organization and, if yes, how?
I hope so. I met individually with fellows from all participating countries and feel as though I offered constructive feedback on monitoring and evaluating their projects.
Did you experience any personal and/or professional gains from this experience?
Yes, it was valuable – and challenging - to work with a team in numerous geographic locations, mostly on Zoom.
Do you have a favorite memory you would like to share?
It was wonderful to talk to each fellow on the phone while in their home clinics. I am sorry to miss the in-person week in Rwanda at the end of January.
Is there an accomplishment that brought you particular pride?
Providing M&E support to the fellows.
It was wonderful to work with Partners in Health – I respect the mission and organization immensely. It was valuable – and challenging - to work with a team in numerous geographic locations.