Joseph Bahoo
Kia ora & Shlama Illokhon!
My name is Joseph, and I am in my third year of Medical School at the University of Auckland.
I was born and raised in Tāmaki Makaurau. My parents are originally from Iraq, and I have grown up within the Assyrian/Chaldean Catholic Community based in Auckland.
I’ve long been fascinated by Latin America, especially its history, languages, and vibrant cultures. The chance to spend time in Chile feels like the perfect opportunity to explore these interests, while stepping outside of my comfort zone and learn more about how Aotearoa and Chile can foster partnership and mutual growth in different aspects.
I am extremely grateful for receiving the PMSLA scholarship, and for the opportunity to experience Chile. I am excited to embrace the experience, lessons, and personal growth this journey has to offer.
Growth in the Unknown
In less than two weeks, I will have substituted the calm of Aotearoa’s “chill-as” summer for the hustle and bustle of Santiago’s metro stations. Mere 20-degree temperatures will be replaced by the drenching heat of Chile’s Climate. Chilean Spanish will also be taking over my daily life, a fry cry away from the “Churs” of the Kiwis.