I recently had the incredible opportunity to participate in a medical campaign in Antigua, Guatemala, and I cannot recommend this experience enough! From start to finish, this journey was both rewarding and eye-opening, providing hands-on medical experience while making a tangible difference in the community.
Partnering with the local team allowed us to combine our resources, medical knowledge, and passion for service with a local organization whose primary goal is to help underserved populations. Throughout the campaign, I had the chance to work directly with hundreds of people of all ages, from infants to senior citizens, addressing a variety of healthcare needs.
One of my key roles was providing education on oral hygiene, including proper brushing techniques, frequency, and cavity prevention. I also gained valuable hands-on experience in lice prevention and treatment by inspecting and treating several school-age children—an intervention that had a significant impact on the community. Additionally, I had the chance to engage with children in a fun and memorable way at a handwashing station. We even created a catchy nursery rhyme-style song to help reinforce proper handwashing habits, which the kids loved!
The most impactful part of this trip, especially as a medical student, was working one-on-one with a local physician. I was able to conduct physical exams, take patient histories, check vital signs, and develop my own diagnoses and treatment plans. This experience exposed me to a wide range of chronic diseases, including hypertension, diabetes, dry eyes, high cholesterol, muscle pain, and even cases of Alzheimer's and dementia. Learning how to communicate effectively with patients and seeing firsthand how my knowledge could impact their lives was truly life-changing.
Beyond the medical work, my homestay experience was wonderful. We were provided with home-cooked breakfast and dinner every day, making it feel like a home away from home. The people of Guatemala are some of the kindest and most welcoming individuals I have ever met—always greeting you with a smile and eager to help. The food, coffee, scenery, and overall atmosphere made the experience even more special.
If you are looking for an opportunity to be a helping hand and a blessing to an amazing community while gaining invaluable medical experience, I 1000% recommend this program. This experience has left a lasting impact on me, and I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to serve and learn in such a beautiful country.
