Fourth-year Global Health Studies major Ifrah Mohamed has been awarded a Dr. Ken Magid scholarship to complete an internship abroad in Vienna, Austria. Read more from UI International Programs:
Ifrah Mohamed is a fourth-year student majoring in global health studies, and while she is originally from Somalia, she has spent half of her life living in Iowa. Mohamed is currently completing an IES internship abroad in Vienna, Austria.
“I’m interning with VAEV R&D Research and Development Agency, which works on improving education and learning through sustainable, community-based projects. Their mission to empower vulnerable groups and advocate for policy change really connects with my passion for global health and equity.
"This internship is already helping me grow in cross-cultural communication and global collaboration, which are so important for my future career in global health."
I chose this program because it’s a unique chance to get real-world experience in an international setting. I’m looking forward to working with local organizations in fields like international relations and psychology, while also immersing myself in Austrian culture. It’s a great opportunity to build my skills and gain experience that aligns with my goals. This internship is already helping me grow in cross-cultural communication and global collaboration, which are so important for my future career in global health. It’s also broadening my perspective on how different cultures approach health and social issues, which I know will make me a stronger candidate for grad programs or jobs down the line.
Receiving the Dr. Ken Magid Scholarship has truly made it possible for me to take advantage of this incredible opportunity without worrying about financial barriers. I’ve been in Vienna for three days now, and honestly, I’m so happy and inspired. Being here feels like a dream come true and it’s already changing how I see the world and my place in it. This support lets me focus fully on learning and growing every day."

For more about the recipients of this scholarship, visit https://international.uiowa.edu/news/2025/06/Dr.-Ken-Magid-Scholarship.