These past two weeks have been enlightening. We were able to experience the cooperation between countries and organizations, working towards common goals at the WHA.
This was followed by a week of visiting with other organizations in global health, allowing us to have a more personal insight into the realities of a career in the global health field. 
Attending the WHA has allowed me to practice my communication skills while making new connections with other students and representatives. While not always succeeding, I have definitely grown from this experience and will carry the lessons I’ve learned with me for the rest of my life.
During our visits with the WHO and UN organizations, we were able to compare and contrast the strategies they employ to improve global health. Some of the organizations we visited this past week include the World Economic Forum, GAVI, Global Fund, and UNAIDS.
Each of these organizations had similar goals, but different ways of achieving them. It was wonderful to be able to visit and learn about the advances being made in global public health.
Ruya Kristal Sayim is a Master of Public Health student at the University of Southern California.
The USC Institute for Global Health organizes an annual trip to the World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, as part of the course “Global Health Governance & Diplomacy in Practice in Geneva at the World Health Assembly.” This year, a group of 12 students are embedded as delegates to NCD Alliance members at the 69th World Health Assembly May 23-28.
Featured image courtesy Dawn Chisholm.
USC Global Health Travel Blog 
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