Vida Volunteer

Vida provides great opportunities to experience public health and medical care in Latin America. The trip that I went on gave me great experience that I know will stay with me throughout my career in healthcare.

Last summer, I traveled to Guatemala with Vida Volunteer. I was very apprehensive as this was my first solo trip outside of the United States and I did not know anyone else in the program. The trip ended up being one of the greatest experiences. Vida Volunteer made the process of traveling to a new country less stressful by setting up all accommodations. We got a lot of time with patients and I learned so much from each day that I volunteered in the medical clinical. I have wonderful memories from all of our excursions, but by far my greatest memory was staying with a family in the town of Chimaltenango. The family took us in with opens arms and we had so much fun getting to know the family members, making homemade tortillas with the family and having big family dinners. I am so thankful to our family and all members of Vida Volunteer who made this trip incredible!

I went on my first Vida trip in the summer of 2023 to Guatemala. It was such and incredible experience, that this past year I became a campus ambassador to help recruit students for my second trip! I learned so much during my time with Vida! The clinic days gave so many opportunities, and really helped me to solidify my career plans and goals! I couldn’t recommend Vida enough!

I was a part of the dentistry group in Costa Rica and it was very enriching experience. I learned all the basics of dentistry while also gaining a lot of hands-on experience. The dentists I worked with were really nice and supportive and helped me grow as a pre-dental student. This is a perfect opportunity for those who wish to help underserved communities with little access to healthcare.

My name is Rachel and I visited Costa Rica this past May with VIDA. I was a chaperone for my school and had an absolute blast! I am a nurse and for me it was blessing to give back to others and work with future nursing, medical and dental students. VIDA was extremely professional and organized. I honestly did not know what to expect but it was one of my favorite international trips. I was in Costa Rica about 20 years ago prior to being a nurse and this trip was so special to go back and serve as a nurse. I was having such a great time and was sad to depart home, but hope for an opportunity to serve again.

I had the pleasure of spending 11 days in Costa Rica with Vida Volunteer and the experience was nothing short of life-changing! The hands-on experience you get is like no other volunteer opportunity and everybody on the trip was so kind and supportive. 10/10 experience, I highly recommend!

This organization provided an opportunity to not only learn material that you can apply to your career (whether it be medical, dental, etc), but it also provides a great opportunity to learn about other cultures and look through others' perspectives.

I loved my experience with Vida Volunteer. I was able to not only travel but integrate myself into the culture of the country we were travelling to allowing myself to better understand the patients we were treating. I also made a family away from home with the homestay family I was living with for a couple of days and enjoyed some home cooked authentic meals. I absolutely loved it and I truly cannot wait to go back.

Vida is absolutely the most incredible organization! There are not enough words to describe how fantastic the opportunity to volunteer with them is. The missions they have available are so immersive in the local culture that you can truly experience these beautiful countries in the best ways. The trips are the most enjoyable trips imaginable. The people receiving treatment are so elated and thankful for your help it will warm your heart. Additionally, the ability to spend time with your group exploring the locality you’re in is unbelievably exciting! Sign up and have the time of your life!

Such an awesome experience with this organization.
1. solidified my goals to become a physician
2. friendly staff and great communication
3. wonderful opportunity to make a difference and see my contribution in front of my own eyes.
4. beautiful way to learn a new culture and language.

So many wonderful things to say about this org!!

When signing up for the trip, I had no idea how big of an impact this trip had on me. I also never have been out of the country by myself and I was a little scared. The moment I got to the country, the vida stuff was so friendly, nice, and helpful. They were there for me every moment of the trip and I never felt unsafe. I felt that this trip confirmed my decision for going into healthcare. I learned so much from the doctors and the stories and connections I have built with patients will forever be remembered. I was able to write my personal statement about the vida trip for grad school. I 110% recommend this trip to anyone thinking of going into healthcare.

I definitely think this is a great program as I learned so much for my desired profession and the local culture. The program is a really great mix of culture immersion, work and fun! The trip is well organized and rural clinic are run smoothly and safely. It’s definitely a worthy experience!

My second trip with Vida was just as incredible as the first. I learned so much in the clinics; by the third clinic day I was completing medical histories in Spanish, taking vitals, performing physical exams, and even writing up the diagnosis for some cases I had become familiar with (which were checked by a doctor).

Our patients were so utterly grateful for the care we provided. One woman told us she had never met a doctor who she felt genuinely wanted to help her before, and she was in tears as she thanked us for giving her simple pain meds like ibuprofen and tylenol. We treated another woman who had been living with a painful, itchy fungal infection for seven years, because she didn’t have access to medical care. The treatment was one that I could easily get at a pharmacy back home.

Through Vida, you get to help people who otherwise have no access to any form of medical care. It will change not only their life but yours as well.

Vida absolutely changed my life. I had lots of hesitations about leaving the country but Vida went above and beyond in making sure all my questions were answered before my trip and making my safety the top priority on my trip. From our clinic days to our recreation days everything was planned so well. I had so much fun and am so thankful for the opportunity Vida gave me.

I had such a great time on my trip! Vida doctors provided me with a wealth of knowledge that I never gained from shadowing in the US. For predental students, this trip was a great way to get hands on experience with patients! 100% worth the investment!!!

Great experience. Had lots of fun while getting quality hands on experience

Vida Volunteer is an absolutely amazing organization. I’ve been apart of 2 trips to both Costa Rica and Guatemala, and had the pleasure of coordinating one of them. Working with Vida was also an amazing experience and it made the trip even better. I can not speak more highly of this organization. I’ve found a passion for the veterinary work that Vida does, and, I hope to be apart of a third trip next year!

This was a life changing and unique experience that I will never forget. We saw a diverse set of cases where we got to diagnose, treat, and educate patients alongside doctors. While working with patients I was able to learn about their culture through their stories.

I was part of the dental team. The dentists that we had were very nice and helpful. Everyone in our group learned a lot. We all got a lot of experience in the dental field on this trip, and for that I’m thankful. The only issue was that the itinerary was very vague. I would’ve liked to have had an itinerary with times on it and specific names of the sites that we went to.

My experience with Vida was truly life changing. Everyone involved with the trip we’re amazing, intelligent and kind individuals, I can’t recommend this organization enough.

Volunteered multiple time with this organization and each time i step back from this experience more and more inspired, because sitting back and watching nothing being done was actually a lot more difficult than working my hardest to actually do something. Working alongside the amazing staff, doctors, and volunteers, i was reminded that to make a real difference, you don't have to be the smartest person with the highest degree, the only thing you need is to be the most passionate. With each trip my perspective of the world continued to change, and that's what many of us need I think, a change in perspective.

On top of all of this, this was an incredible learning experience, inside and outside of the clinic. I gained skills relevant to my future career, logged clinical hours, but most importantly learned how to listen. I learned that sometimes the best cure for ailments in these clinics are just the opportunity to be heard, and I think that is the most important part of this organization.

Live changing experience I would never change. Everything was amazing and I did things I never dreamed of doing at this level in my education.

My experience with Vida Volunteer was amazing. I was able to go on trip of their trips and traveled to Costa Rica and Nicaragua. I was apart of the veterinary team where I was able to get the most hands on veterinary experience I have ever been able to do. These trips help solidify my decision in knowing that I want to become a veterinarian. With these trips I was able to learn about new cultures and try new foods. They make everyday valuable by having an itinerary planned out for us. On the two week trip we had a few recreational days where we went zip lining, tubing, horse back riding, and went to the beach. All the team leaders are amazing and will answer any questions you have to make you feel more comfortable while you are there. The doctors and translators and are all very helpful and they want you to learn as much as possible.

I went to Nicaragua with Vida Volunteer as a volunteer and it was one of the most memorable experiences of my life! I learned an immense amount from the staff, the community, and the culture as a whole. It only assured me more that the healthcare field is the direction I want to stick to. Thank you, Vida!

Vida helps so many lives: from recent graduates, CPE takers, and animals in need...I have no words about what this organization does. Thank you for existing and doing this incredible work! It was an amazing experience. Everyone is super patient and I learnt a lot.

Amazing trip!!!!!! Vida had the perfect combination of activities to explore and providing medical care to those in need. It was a perfect mini study abroad/medical mission trip!

Most life changing experience! Worth every second of it!

Volunteering with Vida allowed me to witness how both challenging yet necessary helping their partner communities in Costa Rica really is. Thank you Vida staff, homestay dad, and amazing new friends for the experience I could find nowhere else. I'm looking forward to volunteering with Vida again in Guatemala next spring!

I had a wonderful time with Vida! I went on 2 trips and continued to learn and be challenged the whole time. The doctors really care and love to talk about the cases you see. The trip leaders are great people who enjoy teaching you about the communities and culture you encounter. Altogether, you learn a lot about the overall health of a person and community!

I went to Vida 2 times it really helped me pass the surgery Exam.
They teached my how to perform ovariohysterectomy on a dog , this is what I need to pass the surgery part of my CPE

It was clear how much work and planning goes into every trip. I learned so much, gained so much hands on experience, and made life-long friends. We were always safe and there was a great balance of work and fun. Even though it was hot and tiring, it was so rewarding to help.

I traveled with my college's Veterinarians Without Borders club to Costa Rica working with Vida. We got the chance to work directly with trained veterinarians to provide clinical services to poverty stricken communities. After taking care of their animals, we got to interact directly with the clients and see the impact our services had on these people's lives. The veterinarians we worked with taught all of us so much and for me personally, they showed me why I want to become a veterinarian myself: to help people through their animals. Most of my club was not very fluent in Spanish and the entire experience was out of our comfort zone. However, the Vida team made us feel comfortable. They taught us some Spanish so we could at least try to communicate, they provided us with insight on the culture of the communities we were in, and they simply provided for our every need. This experience was truly life changing.

My experience travelling with Vida has been one of the most influential of my life so far! I learned so much about medicine, compassion, service, and Costa Rican culture. Vida provided me with opportunities I could not get elsewhere and I am so grateful for them as an organization. I can say without a doubt that Vida has changed me for the better! Looking forward to my next experience with them!

I absolutely love the work that Vida Volunteers does, along with the dedicated, hardworking, and incredible staff that make this all possible. I have gone on three trips through Vida Volunteers, and each one was full of personal and professional growth, excitement, and fulfillment. The tangible effect on the communities along with the connections and engagement that volunteers receive on this trip is priceless. I would highly recommend Vida Volunteers, especially if you are interested in pursuing a career in a health profession.

I joined VIDA for a voluntary veterinary trip to Costa Rica for two weeks in the months of April and May in 2019. My experience was truly extraordinary as it allowed me to gain a lot of insight into the world of veterinary as that is what I hope my future career to be. The trip managers and vets part of the organization were super helpful and approachable, and were some of the most friendlt and kindhearted people I had ever met.

The trip was organized very well and we were always kept entertained with the sightseeing and touring in Costa Rica.

There is no better experience out there than the VIDA trip. In a week and a half journey, I've learned more hands on clinical skills and cultural consciousness than in years of training. I would not have traded this experience for the world. If you are even considering traveling abroad, make sure VIDA is on the top of your list.

I needed their help for my veterinary surgical exam and they help me. They are the best. I pass my exam and now I am a successful Dr. . Thanks

This is the absolute best organization anyone could choose to help underserved communities while learning SO much. Vida changed my life, and it was the best decision I ever made.

I cannot say enough great things about my trip to VIDA. The staff was amazing, everything was very organized, and I cannot wait to go on another trip with them. They facilitated the medical mission trip I always wanted to go on- I was able to meet a very fun group of college kids with the same medical interests as me and get that valuable experience making a difference in the lives of others. Their quote saying that you forget you are changing lives because they are changing yours- is 100% true.

I loved the entire experience. Every detail was planned with extreme care and I loved how the trip coordinators behaved with us. The homestays was very insightful, I got to experience Guatemalan culture from it's own citizens. Everything was perfect and I want to work with Vida again.

in Costa Rica they do a very good job to help the animals

Hello all! My name is Allison Stader, and I have recently returned from a VIDA trip in Guatemala. I was given the opportunity to volunteer alongside physicians, interpreters, and fellow peers to provide assistance to those who need it. The experience I had not only nurtured my interest in medicine but created memories that I couldn't be more grateful for. VIDA has given me a chance to take what I've learned and run with it. Thank you, VIDA!

Being part of the Vida Medical Mission trip was a wholesome experience. I met some of the most passionate and driven people through Vida whether it be the staff, providers, or volunteers. The staff at Vida genuinely cared for the communities we worked with as well as valued their volunteers and providers. Everyone is always willing to teach and help others grow and learn. Being able to serve communities that are so grateful for our time is such an invaluable experience.

I went on 2 VIDA trips, and I loved both experiences. I had an amazing time and got to meet some great people. Both Nicaragua and Guatemala had communities in need, and beautiful cultures. I would definitely recommend VIDA to anyone interested in traveling, while also serving! Safety was never an issue becuase of our amazing staff members (Eduardo, Cynthia, Eli, and Ale) who were always around to assist and make sure we felt comfortable. On this trip, I was able to gain essential clinical skills while living a Nicaraguan or Guatemalan life.

I learned so much in this week, including how to communicate with patients. We had to be very careful with what we said or how we said it because we were there to convey clarity and compassion, not confusion. We were to make sure patients understood their diagnoses because many of these patients were unaware of simple health concerns, such as dehydration or hypertension. Because of this, I gained confidence, and embraced my surroundings. I realized how much I take for granted and how little others may have in life. I was able to meet and bond with many local Nicaraguans, who gifted me with fruits out of appreciation. This international experience showed me a different way of living. It showed me the importance of community and public health.

Volunteering with Vida was such an amazing opportunity not only to help these communities in need, but to experience what a difference health care can make in a person's life. Vida created an easy going and enjoyable experience with a good amount of clinical days and recreational experiences, bringing the volunteers that provide a real genuine Guatemalan experience. All of the Vida staff was so welcoming and friendly, it made the experience even more enjoyable. Would definitely go again!

I was fortunate enough to be able to work with Vida twice so far in my undergraduate career. I loved the trip and staff so much my first trip, I decided to come back and bring 27 of my other friends from my school! The staff really care about your learning and are dedicated to making a difference in the world by education and work.

During my time in college I have gone on 3 trips with VIDA and have absolutely loved every single one! The dedication VIDA has to its volunteers and the communities it works with is unmatched! I learned so much from the staff and community members and I am so thankful for having the opportunity to meet each and every one of them! The trips really solidified and helped fuel my passion for veterinary medicine! I know I will be back to Costa Rica and I have VIDA to thank for introducing me to such a beautiful and wholesome place!

Vida Volunteer was a life-changing experience for me both times I served with them. Traveling to Guatemala and interacting with the people there made the world seem so big yet so small at the same time. Although the healthcare practices of Guatemala are vastly different and issues exist related to hygiene that we don't have to worry about in the United States, human beings everywhere value the same things: love, family, food and water, and a shelter over your head. Especially with the differences in native language, one would've thought that there would have been substantial barriers separating all of us. However, this was not the case.
Vida let me delve into medicine and taught me so much about rural healthcare in Guatemala, while also enabling me to grow as a person and form connections with people from all different backgrounds.

Working with Vida is always amazing and fun! I have had the pleasure to work with amazing people, both students and staff!
I wouldn´t change the experience I had for anything!

I had such an amazing experience on my VIDA trip and made memories I will never forget! I had an amazing time with an awesome group of people. The doctors we worked with were very friendly and really want you to learn and grow. I learned a lot about certain diagnoses thanks to the help of the doctors. I still keep in contact with one of the doctors that was on our trip to this day and she continues to be a great mentor! I've never been to a spanish-speaking country before and loved every minute of it. I came into the program knowing very little Spanish but I learned a lot in the two weeks I was in Guatemala, especially during my home stay (with the most friendly family!). I felt extremely safe every minute of the trip, which was something my parents were concerned about prior to the trip. VIDA does live up to its mission statement and it's beautiful to see the positive impact you as a volunteer make on the communities you serve. Overall, it was an amazing experience that I would love to do again. Thanks so much VIDA!

Volunteering through vida is one of the best experiences I've ever had! I had the opportunity to work in pop-up clinics in rural communities in Nicaragua. It was amazing to build connections with the people there, and I learned so much from the physicians that we worked with. Vida worked hard to make sure that we were well trained and well taken care of so that we could provide the best care possible and enjoy the experience.

VIDA is a fantastic company who provides nothing but the best when it comes to their volunteers. Being on the vet team allowed me to get such a hands on experience and learn things very quickly. The vets were very patient and understanding and I could not be more thankful for the learning experience they gave me. VIDA has a great balance between work and fun and everything done on this trip has a lesson behind it. Going to Guatemala with VIDA definitely helped solidify my career path towards becoming a vet!

This is the 2nd year as a faculty adviser for our group. Both years were in Nicaragua, and I couldn't have been more pleased with everything. Lorena & Amy were our TL & ATL, I give them my HIGHEST recommendation- they worked tirelessly to ensure we not only got as much out of our clinical service & learning, but also in the trip as a whole to understand the country & culture. Our Doctors & Translators were all top-notch: friendly, personable, kind and compassionate. I would recommend VIDA to anyone looking for a medical service trip!

I just recently traveled to Guatemala as an Undergrad and I loved loved LOVED everything bout the trip. All the Vida people I met I befriended very quickly and easily, from the head of Vida in Guatemala to all the interpreters. I got pretty sick for a day on the trip from the food, but these people were so helpful that I was never once worried or felt in danger. I am currently trying to become campus coordinator at my school so I can teach more of my fellow classmates about this amazing life-changing opportunity. I can't wait to work with this incredible company and its awesome people again in the near future!

I embarked on the Guatemala trip with a slight feeling of remorse, as it was an experience well outside my normal comfort zone. Immediately upon landing in Guatemala my attitude changed, and I realized this trip would be a positively memorable life experience. The VIDA staff were fun, helpful, and supportive throughout the trip. The cultural immersion and building of team dynamic throughout the stay made for a revitalizing break from studies, while providing care to underserved rural communities gave purpose to our stay.

Absolutely amazing experience. Veterinarian Dr.Astrid was beyond helpful and engaging. I left feeling extremely grateful to have been apart of such a neat opportunity.

My Vida trip to Guatemala exceeded my expectations! One of the best parts about my time volunteering was getting to know our amazing team leaders in Guatemala. They do everything they can to make sure you are comfortable and having an amazing time. They taught us about the local culture of the country and how to be safe travellers! I will look forward to going next year!

Leaving for Guatemala with the VIDA team, I was nervous and very uncertain about traveling to a foreign country without my family or loved ones, but the VIDA staff were exceptional at their jobs and I felt safe during the entire experience. Traveling with VIDA was truly the experience of a lifetime -- I inherited skills from the vets that will be priceless moving forward with my career and learned so much about the culture of Guatemala at the same time. I would and have already recommended the VIDA organization to numerous friends interested in health care and/or cultural exposure from traveling. I am counting down the days until my net VIDA trip!

This past June, I had the incredible opportunity to be a part of Vida in Guatemala. I was skeptical and didn't know what to expect before the trip, and I wondered whether it would be worth it. After a whirlwind 10 days volunteering at the clinics, I not only learned more about medicine and patient care, but I also grew a lot as a person. Vida gave me the chance to see, first hand, how helping people and giving your time and resources can create a significant impact on the world. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and they never hesitated to answer questions and assist us in any way they could. They made sure that we had all we needed to better provide aid to patients. Recreational days seamlessly weaved into the trip in a way that created a nice balance between volunteering and experiencing the beautiful country of Guatemala. Overall, I am glad that I signed up to be a part of Vida and I truly believe that it was a trip of a lifetime, worth every penny.

Vida is incredible. The experience was a once in a life time one. The staff were amazing!

Working for Vida in the last 7 years has been one of the most enriching experiences. Witnessing the change in the lives of volunteers and in the communities we serve has changed my own life for good and has made me realize that each one of us can impact this world in different ways and that every single effort counts.

I went to Nicaragua with VIDA as a part of the medical team and I could not have asked for a better experience. Since this was my first time traveling outside of the US I was a little apprehensive and unsure what to expect. VIDA made my experience exceedingly positive and has sparked a desire in me to continue traveling and volunteering in the developing world. Everything ran so smoothly and the itinerary was extremely engaging. I really felt that I got the full Nicaraguan experience on this trip and it is an adventure that I will remember forever.

I was able to go to Nicaragua with a medical volunteer group and had an amazing experience! The staff were so helpful with arranging our flight/insurance information, ensuring that we were safe and had everything we needed during our stay, and setting up transportation to all of our sites. I would highly recommend this organization to anyone who has an interest in traveling/volunteering in Central America!

Vida Volunteer is an excellent organization! All staff is highly trained and great to work with. The program fee is quite reasonable for all that is included- 2/3 of meals, all hotels, transport within the country, great recreation activities. There are few volunteer programs that allow you to be so hands on and make such an impact. This program gives students an immersive culture experience and hands-on healthcare experience. Students are able to learn an incredible amount and make an incredible impact as volunteers.

This organization is the best I've seen by far! I have gone on two different trips now and have loved every single second of both of them! Central America is a beautiful area and the people were nothing but thankful for your help and support! Becuase of this wonderful organization I have gained amazing experiences that will last me my entire life. I highly recommend this organization to anyone no matter what type of career you are looking at going into in the end!

This was the most incredible experience. I learned so much while I was on my trip! I would recommend this trip to anyone looking to get more experience, words can not describe the way this trip makes you feel. Its brings you such joy, to help the local communities they are so thankful for your help. It makes you feel good about what you are doing.

I had an experience of a life time volunteering with VIDA in Guatemala. My group was fantastic and Pablo was incredibly knowledgeable and a great leader. The doctors and other staff were great teachers and made clinic days a blast! I strongly recommend this program to anybody that is looking to expand their cultural experiences and gain technical experience at the same time. I LOVE VIDA!

I went to Guatamala with VIDA and was a part of the medical team. It was one of the best experiences of my life. This organization is amazing! It provided us with so many experiences and opportunities in every aspect. We helped people in need and at the same time grew as individuals. The whole team was very organized, professional, and wanted us to truly learn take something from the trip. I can't wait to do it again!

Amazing people, amazing experience. Even when our luggage was lost, everyone tried their best to get it to us no matter what. Our leader Amy was amazing, I would do this trip again to Nicaragua just to be with her. I had a wonderful time.

Just finished my second trip with VIDA in Guatemala and could not think of a better organization to work with. The trip is laid out perfectly, balancing working clinic days and recreational days. You see the change that you are making in the community and it is absolutely the greatest experience. The staff welcomes you in like family and attends to your concerns at all time. Safety was so huge for me and they are 100% on top of every safety concern. Would absolutely recommend this organization to anyone and everyone that I know. Trip of a lifetime!

I have now participated in two veterinary volunteer trips to Costa Rica through VIDA Volunteer. This organization is like no other. The staff is warm and welcoming from the moment you apply for a trip, throughout the planning process, and up until (and often times beyond) your departure and return back home. VIDA enables both people and animals in underserved rural communities to have access to basic medical, dental, and veterinary care. Their model allows students in these fields to learn great client communication and technical skills, while giving back to communities in need. Additionally, VIDA's itineraries include components that enable volunteers to experience the culture in these communities, whether it is through home stays or recreational days off. I cannot say enough good things about this organization, and firmly believe anyone interested in traveling to Central America to volunteer should do so with VIDA Volunteer.

What a great experience all the way around would highly recommend anyone going! You learn so much about the Central Americans cultural, as well as interacting with locals, you meet great people, make best friends, and enjoy good food! This is really a once in a life time experience!!!

Completely in love with this organization. I recently went on a veterinary trip with Vida and before going I had almost no experience at all, but the staff was so patient and encouraging and I was able to learn so much. They give you such a hands on learning experience while helping local communities at the same time.

I have always wanted to volunteer in another country and VIDA provided a well organized, safe, and fun environment just to do so. We worked in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. The whole trip was balanced with recreational days and clinical days. We were able experience Nicaragua culture through homestays which is a one in a lifetime experience.
The whole program is to provide professional health care to underprivileged and give the volunteers an eye opening experience. I have learned that public health is significant field in health care by preventing and educating the communities with simple and easy changes to their lifestyle. Working side by side doctors, diagnosing, treating, educating patients really give you a hands on experience that you would not be able to get in the United States.
This experience is like no other and VIDA definitely gets my recommendation. Thank you VIDA!

VIDA is the most well organized and put together non profit I have ever been apart of. I have been on both the dental and veterinary team and both of the experiences changed my life. I would not be the person I am today without the experiences I had on the 2 VIDA trips I participated on. If you are looking for a life changing experience or to donate to a non profit VIDA is your answer.

Went to costa rica and nicargua, simply a life changing experience. It is really making the world a better place, person by person , and its all happening because of organizations like vida.

I just came back from a trip to Guatemala. I was with the Vida dental program and I was able to learn so much about dentistry from the dentists that were there teaching us as they were doing their procedures. I also learned a lot from fellow volunteers that also wish to pursue a career in dentistry. The experience was also really fun. I got to meet a bunch interesting people with the same interests and drives as myself. The trip also allowed me to see many beautiful parts of Guatemala. Even when I got sick the staff quickly came to my aid to try to make me feel better. 10/10 I would recommend this trip to my friends.

I just got back from a Vida trip to Guatemala and it was honestly one of the best experiences of my life. Not only did we get to genuinely help so many people, but the doctors were also so helpful and really cared about our learning experience as well. I made some amazing friends and truly got both something out of it as well as giving back. I recommend 100%.

Had the most incredible time, met the most incredible people, and learned from incredible doctors. As you can tell, Vida is nothing short of incredible!!

Such an incredible way to gain valuable experience while travelling and immersing yourself in another culture. I would recommend this to anybody! Thank you VIDA! I learned so much!

I have traveled a lot but this is by far one of my best experience. Being able to get hands on experience in the medical field, but even better, you are with a group of people who are motivated and inspired to help others just as yourself. The entire week was filled with laughter and joy and inspiration. This was a life changing event. Everyone will be inspired in some way.

I was mind blown by the extent of work we were tasked with: taking vitals, asking questions, diagnosing, etc. If you are seeking a deeper understanding of the health professions, beyond what you learn from shadowing, this is one of the best opportunities open to you - not to mention the maturity you will nurture from living in a completely different world.

Hands down the best two weeks of my life! I learned so much and had so much fun fulfilling my dream. We went on our trip for two weeks which was the perfect amount of time. I suggest this to anyone and everyone.

My VIDA Volunteer trip was some of the most memorable experiences I have had. All the staff was very helpful and taught me so much. The homestay and the hotels were very comfortable. The veterinary clinics themselves were phenomenal, I learned and accomplished so much more than I expected. You get the best hands on experiences with the animals, nothing you can get in the US. I would recommend anyone to go on a VIDA that would like veterinary hands on experience that will make you stand out compared to other people.

The Vida trip that I took to Nicaragua was truly life changing. Vida Volunteers is an amazing volunteer group that does humbling work.

Such a fun unforgettable experience! I learned so much medically. I would do it again in a heartbeat!

VIDA as always delivers a life changing experience for the volunteer and for the all of the people in Central America that we serve!
The experience I had this year was amazing. Love to be a part of such a great organization that really cares about the families we care for.

Best two weeks of my life!! VIDA gave me the opportunity to help communities that really needed it and gave me the feeling that I was actually making a difference in their lives, no matter how small my role was as a volunteer. And I met the most amazing people on the trip. Vida staff works tirelessly to make everything run smoothly, so thank you all so much!!!

This is my second time traveling abroad VIDA. This year we visited Costa Rica & Nicaragua and it was absolutely phenomenal. We learned so much in clinic days and the doctors were super friendly. They took every opportunity to teach us about each case and walked through the diagnosis & treatment if we got them wrong. The recreational days were also amazing, it was filled with activities from zip lining, boat riding, salsa dancing, horseback riding as well as getting the opportunity to visit the Pacific ocean. Definitely looking forward to attending a third year in 2016 :) I highly recommend this organization over other medical volunteer trips!

I was actually very nervous to be going to a different country, not knowing what it would be like or who I would be working with but I can say VIDA truly changed my life. From the veterinary experience that I received to the most amazing cultural experience I could have imagined, both gave me the best adventure I could have asked for. The staff is all amazing. They are willing to help in all situations whether it be in the clinic or showing us around the communities. The experience of being in underserved communities allowed me to see how people can be happy even when they don't have things that we in the United States would consider necessities. I came home with a new outlook on life and more pictures than I thought would be possible to take. It was by far the best experience of my life and I can't wait to return next summer!

VIDA was a great experience! I loved every minute of it. I got to interact with patients, brush up on my spanish, and tour the homes of local Costa Ricans.

I loved every minute of my Vida Volunteer experience. Vida exceeded all of my expectations and really lives out the moto of "global change through personal growth." I highly recommend being a volunteer for Vida Volunteer because they gave me an experience of a lifetime!

VIDA is a great program! My parents could never afford to pay for the trip so I had to work hard to gather the money. And let me tell you it was worth every penny! I learned so much it was a little overwhelming at some times! I was a little nervous because a lot of these experiences were "firsts" for me but the doctors were patient and helped me gain confidence. I liked that there were small and large animal days. I also liked that there were recreational days in between so there was a balance of work and fun. My favorite rec day was zip lining! I jumped out of my comfort zone and tried this and It was amazing! The rain forests are magnificent! We also saw a family of howler monkeys in the trees!! There were some cons: the bus rides can be pretty bumpy because of the rural areas we visit and one staff member was really impatient with everyone. However the positives outweigh the negatives. This was a big motivator for me and I am more determined to push through undergrad school!

I had such a wonderful experience with VIDA! All of the employees where patient and dedicated to helping us learn and made me feel very comfortable the whole trip.

THANK YOU VIDA for such a wonderful experience and providing these learning opportunities! No matter your level of experience, this is definitely an unforgettable trip you should not pass up. All of the doctors were patient, friendly, welcoming, helpful- they helped each of us build our confidence and leave the program with better understanding and better skill set.
We helped hundreds of animals as well as got to surround ourselves with a new culture. This trip undoubtedly pulls everyone together for teamwork and leadership, a lot of hard work goes into clinic days but they are well worth it.
Definitely feel that this chance helped shape me as a student and future veterinarian.

Vida Is an amazing life changing experience. The opportunities you have to learn are invaluable. The staff is friendly and helpful. The doctors are knowledgeable and patient. It not only has an important impact on the volunteers but also on the communities it serves. Very rewarding and fun experience. I would highly recommend it. :)

I hear about VIDA from a friend that participated in a VIDA trip. I eventually took the leap myself and I had no regrets. The trip, experience, and people were awesome! Of all the other overseas medical volunteer organizations out there, I really think this one of the best. The experience was one in a life time and it only helped reinforce my choice in career as a medical professional.

VIDA was an absolutely amazing experience. I was slightly hesitant at first but I could not have imagined how rewarding it was. I would love to be apart of another VIDA volunteer trip

I had an amazing experience volunteering in Guatemala with VIDA! I learned so much, had a ton of fun, and felt like I impacted the lives of the people of Guatemala. The VIDA staff, interpreters, doctors, and other volunteers were incredibly friendly, helpful, and indispensable resources!

VIDA has given me a great experience working with others in the medical field. I am a nursing major and I have improved on my assessment skills, communication, recognizing diagnosis and determined medications for the patients. The doctors taught me so much and were a great asset to my education. I would definitely recommend going on this trip.

I learned more in this week about the world, life, language, medicine and how to interact with patients than I think I could in a semester at my university. My experience was great, I met amazing people and I would do it again in a heartbeat.

VIDA IS AMAZING! They will take great care of you wherever you are while giving you the experience of a lifetime! I have traveled with VIDA twice and my second time was even better than the first! I LOVE VIDA! All their staff is awesome and patient and trust me the cost is nothing compared to everything you do there!! :)

Absolutely recommend going on a VIDA trip. I would go again and again and again if I had the time to. It is an experience I will never forget and hope to remember for the rest of my life. We worked in Guatemala (but they also make trips to Costa Rica and Nicaragua) by treating communities with health issues because most of them are too far away from clinics or don't have the money to go there. I went with the Pre-med, Pre-PA, Pre-Dentistry group from my school. 6/5 stars if I could.

My advice...GO ON A VIDA TRIP!!! Everything about my trip to Nicaragua was incredible! Vida had great staff, learning opportunities, recreational activities, and cultural immersions! I could not have asked for a better way to spend my time over winter break. I highly recommend this trip for anyone thinking about medical, dental, or vet careers. Unlike other volunteer experiences, Vida provides great hands-on learning. This was the first clinical experience I had and it was totally worth it. As soon as I got back to school I talked to our global eduction department to set up a trip for our school. If your school doesn't have a trip of its own I definitely recommend the open trip because you meet amazing and dedicated students from all over the country at different universities. All of the students and staff are still in contact via social media, which I have never had with another trip.

VIDA is a charity that brings humanity back into medicine and love back into the hearts of physicians. It shows pre med students from across the country that medicine is about more than science and treating diseases. the program brings care to those in the world that are being forgotten and treated unfairly. VIDA is increasing the abilities of individuals and it is showing people around the world that we can do so much more and touch the hearts of so many more people when we let go and take chances. Anyone who has the opportunity to volunteer in this program is lucky as they will leave forever transformed into a more sensible human being. Pura Vida!

I am a pre-vet student in Arizona who went on a VIDA trip in 2013 and again as a Trip Coordinator in 2014.
This summer I spent two weeks in Costa Rica and Nicaragua as a volunteer with VIDA, Volunteers for Intercultural and Definitive Adventures. Our trip included a Veterinary team, a Dental team, and a Medical team. Our goal was to serve the impoverished communities in the area while gaining knowledge and experience in clinical settings. This trip was amazing! We did so much hands-on learning under the guidance of the veterinarians and technicians. In just 8 clinic days we performed 74 spays and neuters, over a hundred consults and treated over 210 cattle, pigs and horses. I placed IV catheters, intubated dogs, and assisted in surgeries. This trip has been an experience of a lifetime that I recommend to all pre-vet students. I hope that when I become a veterinarian I can take time to do a trip like this and help future students get similar experiences.

Going on a VIDA trip was the best thing that I did this summer. Not only do you get clinical experience but you also get to make amazing friends as well. I just arrived today from my VIDA trip and I can honestly say I have gained so much knowledge both educational and personal. The doctors that I worked with were such great teachers. They were patient, and kind and they truly cared about their patients. I don't i've ever had so much fun learning before.

Absolutely wonderful experience! VIDA is a wonderful organization that helps people in need while providing unique experiences for its volunteers. I wouldn't hesitate to go on another VIDA trip!

The VIDA foundation does exactly what it says in its description; it positively impacts the quality of life in underserved communities while offering volunteers a life changing experience. I went into the trip apart of the medical team expecting to learn about taking vital signs, communicating with patients, and to make a few friends, but my expectations were blown out of the water. Vida gives volunteers the opportunity to gain experience and knowledge not only in their respective professional fields, but also in cultural diversity, and in their own lives. My experience with VIDA over the last two weeks has changed my perspective in so many ways. It is a wonderful chance to be pushed from your comfort zone into a life opening experience that you can only understand with your own heart and see with your own eyes. JUST DO IT. pura vida.

Vida is an incredible organization. I just got home yesterday from my amazing 2 week experience and I can't say enough good things. The Vida staff, volunteers and people we helped all connected in a way that I don't think could happen under any other circumstances. Being pushed outside of your comfort zone surrounded by supportive people who are passionate about helping others is such a great opportunity. I was nervous before I left, not knowing what to expect, but everything we did both during both Clinic days and our days off exceeded my expectations. This organization really knows what they're doing and their passion and goal is an honest one. They want to help make a positive impact on the world. If you're thinking about volunteering with this organization, DO IT!!!! I'm so thankful I did!!!!

Just got back from Vida trip. If you are thinking about doing a trip, DO it. It is a life changing experience. You get to help out so many people on your way. They are so grateful and humble. The people I met on the trip were amazing. We started off as individuals and ended the trip as a family. Not only you get to discover the cultural difference but also discover yourself.

I just came back from my first VIDA trip to Guatemala with the vet team. The experience I have gained is priceless. The staff is truly amazing, and the trip is VERY well organized. Other than the great experience gained with assisting veterinarians and learning, you also get to experience the culture of the country which was eye opening. I also had the opportunity to bond with staff members and other volunteers and created long-lasting friendships. The trip far exceeded my expectations, you will not regret going on a trip with VIDA!

VIDA is an amazing organization that allows volunteers to grow through there learning experience while helping others in need. I just got back from my trip to Guatemala and it was truly a life changing experience. I was on the vet team and I learned more on this trip then I ever have back home. It really helps you decide if being a vet is what you want to do with your life because it's so much more hands on then volunteering at a vet clinic at home. Being able to help the animals and then returning them to their loving families and seeing their smiles was worth everything. I would love to do another VIDA trip. The staff were incredibly friendly and I never felt like I couldn't ask for help. You won't regret doing a VIDA volunteer trip!

Vida is (by far) the best organization out there for medical, dental and veterinary work. I was on the trip to Guatemala with Danny and Edo (papi) as the team leader and assistant team leader respectively. These two individuals are absolutely amazing! They immediately treated us as family, from the moment we landed in Guatemala City. The whole Vida staff should receive a pat on the back for their amazing support throughout the trip. I never expected such gratitude and care and they really helped us feel at home. The trip was well organized and the food was amazing. We did not eat rice and beans every single day and the home-stay families were very caring. I couldn't have asked for more. I recommend Vida to anyone that wants to volunteer their time and help local people with the medical or dental teams. Amazing experience and I will definitely be back next year!

VIDA staff consists of the most amazingly friendly individuals I have ever met. They become your friends, and the entire experience is incredibly enjoyable and informational. I would strongly consider doing a trip with VIDA again. Thank you Danny and Edo for making this trip so amazing. It wouldn't have been the same without you two. I would strongly recommend this trip to those who are interested. You can't go wrong.

VIDA is a great organization with an even better mission to serve families in under-served areas of Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Guatemala. The staff is helpful and so much fun! Couldn't have spent my spring break with better people :)

VIDA was a fantastic experience that lived up to and beyond my expectations. The veterinarians that we worked with were dedicated to making sure that we each felt comfortable with the procedures we performed and helped out with every step of the animal care process. They were also great people to get to know and hang out with after clinics. Overall, VIDA made sure that there was a good balance between clinic days, work, and recreation and fun. It was an amazing experience and I would highly recommend to any pre-vet student that they take the opportunity to travel with VIDA!

I thought VIDA was the experience of a lifetime! I would recommend this organization to anyone interested in veterinary, medical, or dental. The firsthand experience that I obtained surpassed any work I'd done with animals prior. Going on this trip affirmed that I am making the right life choice becoming a veterinarian!

I participated on the trip last year and had the opportunity to be campus coordinator this year. VIDA did an amazing job both years at providing students with an excellent learning opportunity in both medicine and cultural diversity. VIDA is well organized and makes traveling all over the countries a breeze. Staff and doctors know English and Spanish well and are willing to offer any assistance to students either at clinics sites or during free days. I would highly recommend VIDA for any college student wanting to gain valuable experience in the MED/VET/DENTAL field.

VIDA is a GREAT organization! Before I signed up for the trip and even while I was preparing to leave I had a lot of doubts. Would I be able to find VIDA at the airport? Is VIDA going to be sure I'm safe and have a safe place to stay the entire trip? Will VIDA provide enough food for 12 days? Is VIDA reliable in case of an emergency? The answer is YES! I had an AMAZING trip! The learning experience, cultural experience, and volunteer experience is SPECTACULAR! The doctors are awesome and really do their best to educate you and the patient. The trip leader (Ana) was AWESOME and took care of us like we were her own children! The relaxation days were also so much fun! We went to the hot springs, a lagoon, and we went zip-lining! I would go back in a heartbeat if I could! The knowledge and memories I gained with VIDA will last a lifetime!

VIDA volunteer was the best organization I could've chosen to volunteer for. The staff was absolutely wonderful and accommodating even when a bunch of our flights got cancelled and rescheduled. The clinics were well-organized and were a really cool experience. I got to have hands-on contact with patients that many people do not get the chance to experience as an undergrad student. The home stay was also an awesome experience because we got to stay at actual houses and experience the culture first-hand. Thank you for the experience of a lifetime!

Indescribable trip unless you experience it yourself! It was an incredible experience to be cultured, educated within your desired field, make friendships that will last a life time and have an absolute blast while doing it! I would attend another trip in a heartbeat!

Vida provided me with an experience that I wouldn't have been able to get anywhere else. I learned so much about veterinary medicine and got a ton of hands on experience. It really reaffirmed that I want to be a vet. We also did lots of fun things as well and learned a lot about new cultures!

My trip was an amazing experience! The staff was wonderful and everything went as planned. I really enjoyed the home stay experience, I think that was a great addition to the trip.

This past trip that I just completed was my second trip with VIDA. That alone should say a lot. The staff are wonderful and helpful and you meet some amazing people. Everyone says it's life-changing because it's true, with each VIDA trip I go on I grow as a person. In the (hopefully) near future I plan on doing more VIDA trips.

This was by far the best way to not only gain hands on experience in veterinary medicine but also experience a cultural and life changing trip. I learned so much with VIDA and hope that someday I will be able to work with them again.

Most amazing experience of my life. A perfect mix between being in paradise and changing lives.

I absolutely loved my VIDA trip. I met some amazing people and I was able to help the locals in the process. The satisfaction I felt when i saw the patient smile after we told them we would be able to help them definitely confirmed that I want to be in the medical field!

I learned way more from this trip in two weeks then I would ever learn in a classroom. I was completely surrounded by culture and thrilling experiences that I would never have gotten the chance to experience if I wasn't traveling with VIDA. I learned what these communities deal with on a daily basis, which has made me appreciate everything I have back at home. The hands-on medical experience is something I would have never been able to experience until after PA school. I would love to go again next year! Thank you for everything!

VIDA did a great job of guiding us through being in different countries as well as gave us a once in a lifetime experience to help people in need that we wouldn't be able to do in the United States.

I learned far more than what I expected to on this eye-opening trip. I got amazing hands on experience in Costa Rica and Nicaragua as one of the members of the veterinary volunteers. The veterinarians that I got to work along side of were so helpful and patient as I learned the procedures in the clinics. The VIDA group I was a part of was one of the larger groups that have volunteered, but the trip was still very personal, and I feel as if I made relationships with many in the group as well as our incredible Team Leader. I would definitely recommend a VIDA trip to anyone willing to learn a lot about the field they're interested in, as well as learning a lot about themselves along the way.

Such a great trip. It was so reasonable and more than worth it for the experience you get. You get a lot hands on experience and get to work along side friendly and intelligent doctors who are willing you always explain situations to you and help you learn first hand.

I traveled to Costa Rica and Nicaragua as an undergraduate veterinary volunteer. VIDA was an incredibly rewarding experience. I got to learn and do things that I would not otherwise had the opportunity to do until vet school, while knowing that I was making a difference and helping both people and animals. VIDA was a wonderful way to combine learning and service and it was definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity. The program was also very well organized and the trip ran very smoothly even with almost 50 people traveling together.

I am a retired CPA, physician and hospital administrator and currently a dog rescuer . I have served on the VIDA board for 8 months but I have been familiar with the organization for 5 years. I have utilized some of their services for my dogs and became acutely aware of the benefit they provide to the communities they serve. I highly recommend the VIDA trips for anyone looking for a hands on learning experience, along with the opportunity to experience another culture and to have some fun.

I just took a Pre-Medical VIDA trip to Nicaragua! It was by far the greatest experience of my life. Going in to the trip I was a little scared and unsure of what to expect. I was worried about going to a different country. the language barrier, homestays. After meet the trip coordinator all those fears went away. VIDA staff did an amazing job helping the whole group feel comfortable in a different country. VIDA staff did an amazing job translating and making sure all our needs were meet. The clinic days where exceptional!! The translators and doctors were very educated. The doctors were very willing to teach each and everyone of us and I feel like I learned so much fro each and everyone of them. The homestay families were absolutely amazing. Great families that VIDA all picked for us and they were so great to us. I am so thankful for the opportunity VIDA presented to me and I will remember this trip for the rest of my life. Mind blowing experience. I would recommend it to everyone and surely do it again in a heartbeat.

I just came back from a pre-vet visit to Guatemala with VIDA. I was able to learn so much with all of the experienced staff. We worked with 4 Vets and 2 Vet School students on this trip. We helped over 500 animals on this trip! Not only was I able too visit a new country and experience a new culture but I also learned so much about being a vet. On the trip itself everything was planned out for me but we also got free time to explore the cities we visited. Overall it was an invaluable experience and I will definitely do it again next year.

Going on this trip was the best decision I ever made. It has helped me realize how fortunate I am for the opportunities I have been given and the way that I live. This trip was also a very good opportunity to help others and give to communities that had very little. It was a very life-changing and fulfilling experience.

This trip pushed me far out of my comfort zone; it was exactly what I needed. Though I was committed to Dentistry before this trip, everything I did put into words and actions the once abstract and undefinable reasons I had for pursuing Dentistry. I learned just how much one toothbrush can help, what it feels like to teach someone how to brush their teeth for the first time, how much your time and effort means to someone who is less privileged than you. The team leaders were the perfect blend of friend and leader, empowering us to do our best work and have fun by leading by example. The professional staff was very much the same and were more than happy to answer any of the questions we had; the trip was very much an educational experience. All in all, I would absolutely return and plan on doing so next year.

I served as the CFO and Treasurer on the Board for five years. I personally watched VIDA grow from a kitchen table idea to a respected organization. I provided support from the USA side of the business by sourcing supplies, medicines, promotional products and financial services. I had visited Costa Rica a couple times before in my life so I understood some of the challenges the organization faced with transportation, shipping, housing, communication within the country. I loved hearing all the stories from organization leaders and other members of the board about the successes we were achieving. Nothing, absolutely nothing they said could have prepared me for my first VIDA trip... I was humbled. We visited communities with no running water, homes without windows, no trash removal, no electricity, outdoor kitchens and bathrooms, entire communities with no cars, people washing their clothes in the river.... And they looked happy! They live in small, strong, tight knit communities, older generations helping raise new generations. Entire families helping to support the family business whether it is shoe making or embroidery or furniture making. The people of Central America are looking for what we are all looking for; they just want good medical care and dental care for themselves and their loved ones. They want cleaner, healthier living and when that help and education come to them, they are so very grateful. It brings peace to the parents when they know their child can live a long, happy, healthy life. For the VIDA volunteers I shared this journey with, their lives and vision for their futures were forever changed. That is the power of volunteering and the power of VIDA.

The trip was overall really great, I just felt that the biggest issue was an all-around lack of communication between everyone. Between the trip coordinator, our guide, the families we stayed with, between everyone and the volunteers, etc...It led to some frustrations that could have been avoided.

I went on a medical and dental trip with VIDA to Costa Rica during winter break of 2013. I was impressed with how smoothly the program is run, and by how big of an impact all the volunteers and staff had on the communities we served in the two Costa Rican towns we visited. Not only is this a great opportunity to help communities in need, it also is a great chance to gain valuable career experience and insight. All of the doctors and dentists were incredibly knowledgable and very helpful and engaging. The VIDA staff were great when it came to organizing the recreational activities we had (hiking and canopy zip-lining), as well as organizing smaller things like going out for meals. The VIDA trip was incredibly influential in my mindset of my future career as a physician, as well as on my overall outlook on global communities like the two we visited in Costa Rica. I would definitely recommend this program to anyone who wants to gain professional and cultural experience, or for anyone who just wants to make a different in impoverished communities!

I had the opportunity to go on a trip to Costa Rica with VIDA as a medical volunteer, and I can positively tell you it was the most amazing experience of my life! The staff were highly friendly and useful (in fact I'm dealing with separation depression right now...), and I believe the trip was quite well planned. We had 5 days of clinic, and 2 days of fun activities including swimming in a river, going to a tropical jungle, visiting a waterfall, visiting a water fall and ZIP-LINING. We spent the New Year there which was different for me in a good way I personally learned a lot in the clinic and thoroughly enjoyed the activities. The interpreters were extremely helpful with their translations, the doctors were quite down to earth and knowledgeable, and our trip coordinators were nice and helpful all the time. I DEFINITELY RECOMMEND VIDA TO EVERYONE!!