University of Richmond science student travels to Tanzania to help HIV/AIDS victims, raise awareness

December 2, 2008

Kate Nicholas of Ephrata, Pa., a junior biochemistry major at the University of Richmond, recently traveled to Mjengo, a village near the town of Moshi, Tanzania, to help treat HIV/AIDS patients and teach English.

On her first day, Nicholas and other volunteers participated in an HIV/AIDS awareness march. During her three-week stay, she attended lectures by local residents and professors on the HIV/AIDS issue.

Her interest in medical research motivated Nicholas to observe the impact of the AIDS epidemic in Africa. Nicholas worked with the Uwawayaki Women's Clinic in Mjengo, accompanying two doctors on home visits to HIV/AIDS patients and teaching English to the widows who founded the clinic. She also volunteered at nursery schools and orphanages in other nearby villages.

Nicholas plans to pursue a career in medical research, exploring the overlap between science and international humanitarian efforts.