What is a Service Learning Trip?
A Service Learning Trip (SLT) is more than just volunteering—it’s a transformative experience that combines hands-on service with immersive cultural learning. Through MEDLIFE, you travel to a community in Latin America or Africa and engage in a variety of development projects aimed at addressing health, education, and infrastructure challenges. These trips offer you the chance to directly support local communities while gaining a deeper understanding of the systemic issues they face.
Why is a Service Learning Trip Different?
Unlike traditional volunteer trips, an SLT with MEDLIFE prioritizes ethical engagement. The projects you’ll work on are community-driven and designed to create long-term, sustainable impact. Rather than simply “helping,” you’ll be collaborating with local leaders and professionals to meet the community’s needs. This approach helps you to reflect on issues of poverty, inequality, and global health from an informed, critical perspective.
What Will You Do on Your SLT?
- Mobile Clinics: You’ll work alongside healthcare professionals at mobile clinics to deliver care to underserved populations. Here, you’ll observe and assist in triage, health education, and other essential services.
- Development Projects: You’ll participate in building and infrastructure projects, such as staircases or water systems, that improve access to basic services and contribute to long-term community development.
- Reality Tour: Explore the community with local guides, gaining firsthand knowledge about the challenges people face and how they are working toward sustainable solutions.
- Cultural Immersion: Beyond your volunteer work, you’ll experience the local culture through shared meals, conversations, and optional excursions, all while honoring the traditions of the communities you visit.
Why Choose a Service Learning Trip?
An SLT offers the unique opportunity to:
- Gain real-world experience in healthcare, education, and development.
- Build skills and earn service hours for your academic or professional portfolio.
- Make a meaningful impact through ethical, community-driven projects.
- Expand your perspective on global challenges and learn to become an advocate for change.
The experience is designed to equip you with the knowledge and passion to continue your advocacy and service long after you return home.
Key Details
- Duration: One week (7 days)
- Destinations: Peru, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Tanzania
- Costs: Includes accommodation, meals, and transportation for the duration of the trip. Travel costs (flights, optional excursions) are additional.
- Eligibility: Open to students, volunteers, and community advocates. Specific requirements may vary depending on the destination.