The lived experiences of flemish midwifery students undertaking an internship in Suriname: A phenomenological study

Objective: The aim of this study is to explore the lived experience of Flemish midwifery students undertaking an internship in Suriname. Design: Hermeneutic phenomenological method as described by van Manen. Methods: Seven midwifery students from one University College were selected purposefully for an in-depth interview during their internship abroad within the period October-November 2014. All interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Findings: The study revealed five overarching themes: (1) A time to reconsider the time, (2) a time of connection and disconnection, (3) spatiality for thought and rethinking, (4) a body to undergo or a body to respond and (5) the other(s) among the others. Conclusion: The experience of an internship in Suriname presents itself in each individual as: 'A process of awareness from the self with a main focus on the professional'. Meaning that it was a process of 'disconnection' from their own culture towards 'connection' with another culture. Both, the 'rethinking' of their role as a midwife, as well as, balancing between guarding ones own authenticity by 'responding' or being the friendly stranger through `undergoing, was noticeably striking.