Our Service Learning Trip to Tena, Ecuador was an incredible experience. Twenty-four students, and four chaperones, including myself, traveled to Tena, Ecuador to participate in a service-learning trip with MedLife. Although we faced some travel challenges due to flight cancellations and delays in Panamá, we were able to arrive in time for students to travel to Tena in the Amazon region of Ecuador. In Tena, students participated in clinic days, supporting local medical staff in remote, indigenous communities, which have historically been marginalized and remain somewhat isolated, far from medical care. Students worked hard during our two clinic days and additional project days, where they visited a school and worked on supporting the school’s agricultural projects. This trip confirmed for me the value of service learning and of the partnership with MedLife, an organization that provides long-term care for these communities after our students leave. In addition to the personal growth that I witnessed among the students, the MedLife leaders continuously guided and pushed students to reflect, evaluate, and consider ways that they could continue to work in their daily life and community. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have traveled to Ecuador, a truly beautiful country and to have seen the impact of MedLife firsthand - not only on the local communities but on our students as well. I also want to recognize the planning, effort, kindness, flexibility, and patience of the MedLife staff - especially our trip leader Alejo, as well as Lorena and Marta - who took care of so many details throughout the week. Mil gracias, son los mejores!

We had a great experience.

I had such an amazing experience! I learned so much about myself and the world around me, and I will forever take this trip with me throughout my life.

Incredibly memorable and super educational. I was always comfortable and never felt unsafe. Our guide Rubit and her assistant Nico were incredibly caring, super knowledgeable, and made the experience as good as it was. Thank you for everything!

It was a very fulfilling trip! Inspiring to see the very welcoming community leaders work to help their people. It was an immense pleasure to work alongside them and the healthcare professionals and learn from them!