Guest blog post by Alicia Edwards
- VisualDx Student Advisory Board Member | Medical Student, Howard University College of Medicine 
My love for service and global exploration began during my time at Spelman College when I participated in my first service-learning project in Belize City, Belize. That experience ignited a passion for service, adventure, and cultural immersion that would shape my journey in medicine. From there, I embarked on a transformative semester at sea, visiting 8 different countries in just one month over winter break.
My thirst for knowledge and cultural understanding only grew stronger, leading me to study abroad in Chengdu, China, and Dubai during my master’s program. Each experience reinforced my belief that learning from different cultures, understanding their values, and embracing their perspectives made me a better human and, ultimately, a better physician.
When I entered medical school, I knew I wanted to incorporate international service into my journey. As an African American woman, I had a deep yearning to visit Africa, my ancestral homeland, to learn more about my roots, connect with my people, and serve those in need. This desire led me to organize two medical missions—the first to Arusha, Tanzania, and the most recent to Nairobi, Kenya.
In Nairobi, I quickly learned that access to dermatologic care in Kenya was extremely limited due to cost, despite the widespread need. Seeing this gap in health care access, I reached out to my mentors, Dr. Hope Mitchell and Dr. Shaveonté Graham, who selflessly agreed to join me in providing free dermatologic care to underserved populations.
Over the course of a week, we saw more than 240 patients, treating a wide range of skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Each morning, we were met with long lines of patients, and after receiving care, many would spread the word, leading to even larger crowds the following day.
As a medical student, I played a critical role in triaging patients and taking their medical histories.
The VisualDx app became an essential tool in my learning and diagnosis process, allowing me to document skin lesions, develop differential diagnoses, and propose treatment options before presenting cases to my mentors.
Working tirelessly for hours without breaks, we were fueled not by food or rest, but by the gratitude, laughter, and stories of the people we served. The experience reaffirmed my belief that service is one of the most powerful ways to learn—not just about medicine, but about humanity itself.
For me, there was nothing more enriching than being in Africa, serving people who looked like me and inspiring the next generation. Young women approached me, eager to take pictures and share their dreams of becoming medical professionals.
Seeing myself reflected in their aspirations was deeply moving, reinforcing my responsibility to pave the way for future leaders in health care.
This mission would not have been possible without the generosity of organizations like VisualDx and Black Girl Sunscreen, whose donations helped cover the costs of the free medical camp. Although we provided free care, many patients could not afford their prescription medications. Additionally, the hospital staff and nurses who assisted with translations and vital signs needed to be compensated. It was through collective efforts, donations, and shared visions that we were able to make a tangible impact.
I am incredibly grateful for organizations that believe in my mission and support my efforts, even as a medical student. Many medical students feel they must wait until they become attending physicians before they can make a difference. However, I want to remind them that their journey—studying, applying for residency, and preparing for board exams—is already shaping the future of healthcare. Passion, kindness, and a willingness to serve are powerful tools that can change lives, regardless of career stage.
To my fellow medical students: Dream big. Be fearless. You do not have to wait to make an impact. The world needs your ideas, your compassion, and your leadership now.
I am privileged to have had this experience and to work alongside mentors and organizations that share my dedication to serving underserved communities, innovating in health care, and leading with kindness. This is only the beginning, and I look forward to expanding these efforts to increase access to dermatology care across Africa. Together, we can create a future where healthcare is truly accessible to all.
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