Integrated Learning Experiences- INLEX

Program Reviews

Benjamin
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Guatemala

My experience with this teaching program in Guatemala was truly one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences of my life. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed by the staff, and the local community. The program was well organized, and it was clear that everyone involved genuinely cared about creating a meaningful experience for both the volunteers.
Teaching in the classroom was incredibly fulfilling. Although I was initially nervous about working with students in a different country and culture, the program provided excellent guidance and support that helped me quickly gain confidence. The students were enthusiastic, eager to learn, and brought so much energy to each lesson. Even when there were language barriers, we found ways to communicate through patience and creativity.
One of the highlights of the program was the opportunity to immerse myself in Guatemalan culture. Outside of the classroom, I was able to explore towns, try delicious local food, and learn about the country’s rich history and traditions. Interacting a local family and community members gave me a much deeper appreciation for the culture than I could have gained as a typical tourist. It was an experience that broadened my perspective and helped me grow both personally and professionally.
The program staff were exceptional throughout my stay. They were always available to answer questions, provide assistance, and ensure that volunteers felt safe and supported. Whether it was helping with transportation, offering teaching advice, or recommending places to visit during free time, they consistently went above and beyond to make the experience enjoyable. Their passion for the program and dedication to the community was inspiring.
This program challenged me in the best possible ways. It improved my communication skills, increased my confidence, and gave me valuable teaching experience while allowing me to contribute to a community in a meaningful way. I left Guatemala with unforgettable memories, a greater appreciation for different cultures, and a renewed sense of purpose.
I would highly recommend this program to anyone interested in teaching abroad, volunteering, or simply stepping outside of their comfort zone. It offers the perfect combination of meaningful service, cultural immersion, personal growth, and adventure. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity and will always look back on my time in Guatemala with gratitude and pride.

Pros
  • Language emersion
Cons
  • Limited amenities
Jannes
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A time I won’t forget

When learning about the opportunity to stay abroad in Costa Rica for a few months, it sounded like the perfect experience to take after a lot of studying for my high school degree. And what should I say: it was fully worth it. I got in touch with so many nice people, not only from Costa Rica but from a lot of nations worldwide. When not working in my projects, I travelled around the country and the neighbouring countries (Panama and Nicaragua). Of course you have to be a bit more careful while travelling compared to Europe, but nevertheless I never felt insecure. There are so many beautiful places in Costa Rica which are waiting to be explored, so the time went really fast. I came back with a lot of new friends and unforgettable experiences and memories.

Isabellyana
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Amazing Experience

I had a wonderful time and I learned so much. It was a great experience and I recommend this to any student that considers the option to volunteer through Intern HQ. I loved my host family. I learned a lot at the clinic I worked at and learned so much. This experience was essential in my education and I will use all the knowledge gained in my future career as a doctor. I recommend this program to any student looking to learn or gain clinical experience. Is also a great opportunity and a great way to explore Costa Rican culture.

Sara
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Antigua, Guatemala

Great host family: even when communicating was a bit difficult.

Great experience: food vice, traveling/exploring.

Great work at Eco Farm: good work and good teamwork.

I easily got help when I was sick, every step of my process. And met some great people, who I am also going to see again, when they are back.

I am born in Guatemala, but adopted, so it was wonderful to have the opportunity to travel and seeing the country I came from.

I also got reminded, not to take what I have in Denmark for granted.

What was your funniest moment?
Every weekend my roomie and I went to see different things around Guatemala.
Pros
  • Good help, when needed
  • Beautiful country
  • Great coffee
Cons
  • Beans
  • Bad stomach
  • Change of temperature from place to place
Emily
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

life changing experience!

I can't write enough great things about this program. The clinic we helped at really felt like we were improving people's lives. The staff was unforgettable, and I looked forward to going every single day of our stay. Our guide, Alex, was a genuine lifesaver. We felt so cared for and safe all thanks to him. Our host mother made us feel at home and cherished. There was also plenty to do in Guatemala for fun on the weekends. I am so thankful that this program exists and that I had the opportunity to experience it.

Kylee
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

PT Clinic Review

I had a lovely time at Physiocentro in Guatemala. I was able to assist with patients and see treatment techniques that I had not seen before in the US. I also loved staying with my host family who were so welcoming. Every weekend was a new adventure from climbing volcanoes to visiting a giant lake with crystal blue water! My husband and I came here for our honeymoon and it was the perfect balance of working and serving a purpose and also exploring a new country! I would recommend this program to everyone!

What was your funniest moment?
Probably my last day there! We signed up for a race that the local fire department was hosting and it was so fun crawling under wire and racing in fireman gear!
Pros
  • Expounded my Spanish abilities
  • Friendships with fellow clinicians
  • Beautiful sights!
Cons
  • Not enough time to see it all!
Iris Magaly
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Review

Going to Guatemala with INLEX made me feel extremely supported and safe throughout the experience. We were provided so much information on Guatemala to learn more about its history, taken around cities to get to know Guatemala, texted every day for check ups to make sure we were ok, helped with transportation whether it was direct information or a direct ride, and put in an amazing clinic to work with fisioterapeutas that enhanced our learning experience in Guatemala and made the clinic fun! I could not have asked for a better experience. Thank you.

Pros
  • Transportation
  • Support
  • Safety
Kayana
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Physiotherapy Volunteer Program

Our experience with this program was nothing short of amazing. From the moment we arrive de, the staff made us feel welcomed and well taken care of. Getting to Guatemala did not go exactly as planned, but our trip coordinator, Alex, made accommodations and ensured we had everything we needed upon arrival. Throughout this entire trip, he was always available to help, answer question, and to make sure that we were okay and comfortable, no matter how big or small the concern.

Coming into the trip we were nervous about staying with a host family, but this experience turned out to be just as wonderful. I never once felt unsafe or uncomfortable in the home. She provided us 2 meals each day (breakfast and dinner), and created a safe and welcoming space to return to.

Transportation to and from the airport was arranged for us. While using public transportation at first felt overwhelming and intimidating, with some guidance it became manageable. At times communication could be a little tough, but everyone we met was patient, and we figured out ways to communicate with Google Translate. During our free time, we had opportunities to explore —including hiking Acatenango, Fuego, and visiting the ruins.

Overall, this trip was an unforgettable experience. Everyone we met was kind, helpful, and genuinely cared about making the stay meaningful. I would highly recommend this program to anyone considering.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
If I did this all over again, I would book this trip for more than 2 weeks.
Pros
  • Support and coordination
  • Safe and welcoming housing
  • Adventures and experiences
Cons
  • Communication barriers
Niklas
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Amazing Experience

As part of my final year of my medical education, I wanted to explore a foreign country to experience different approaches to help people in need, gain new experiences and learn a new language. On my search for fitting options, I stumbled upon Inlex and immediately was convinced by this organization. I finally chose to travel to Costa Rica to work at a small clinic in San Ramón. Shortly after I submitted my application they reached out to me and assisted me on every step during the application process and answered all my questions. As I didn't speak any Spanish at this point, the option to book online classes directly through them was very convenient. When I arrived in Costa Rica, I immediately had support from a representative of Inlex, who was extremely nice and accommodating. Even during my stay they always checked up on me and made sure I had a comfortable stay. In Costa Rica I had the most amazing host family and was able to work with amazing people at the clinic as well as learning some Spanish. I didn't know what to expect when I applied to this organization, but in any case I was overwhelmed with their services and can truly recommend this organization to anyone who wants to explore a foreign country!

Thank you so much for everything!

Pros
  • Host Family
  • Clinic
  • Spanish improvement
Rahel
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

12 weeks at Hogar Juana de Aza in Cusco

I spent 12 weeks in Cusco working at the Hogar Juana de Aza and living with a super lovely host family. Together with my host family I was able to get to know and explore the Peruvian culture and the country and I am grateful for this experience.
However, my work at Hogar Juana de Aza was different than expected. I had the idea of ​​working more with the young mothers, but in the end it was more like childcare. I spent my time playing with children between 2 and 6 and looked after them. Nevertheless I really enjoyed my time and took both the children and the mothers very close to my heart. I'm happy with my decision to stay for so long, because it obviously took some time for the children to develop a bond with me and for the mothers to fully trust me with their children. After the first few weeks, I realized that I could make an important contribution to the Hogar and that I was greeted with a big smile every day and said goodbye with a heavy heart after work. Even though I expected something different I was happy to be there. I would recommend going to this program but it's important to know that you will be working with children most of the time.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
After about 7 weeks I was alone with the 8 children in a small playground. As is normal with children, they tested my limits, but that day was special. Being alone with the responsibility for 8 children who fight, testing my boundaries and taking advantage of the fact that I don't understand them 100% (and I do have solid Spanish skills) was a big challenge that day. The feeling of not doing justice to the situation and the worry that something might happen overwhelmed me at that moment. At the end of that day I was grateful that everything went well (except some small bumps and bruises), but the tension and worry stayed with me for a few days. It wasn't the co-workers who helped me, but rather friends who had similar jobs and were able to give me tips and understood my worries and fears and just listened to me.
Pros
  • Experience in working with children
  • Becoming more independent (and making a home for yourself in a place where you know no one)
  • Cusco as a city for volunteering is the perfect place to feel home, save and welcome and experiencing the Peruvian culture at the same time
Cons
  • Starting work and it’s not what I expected
  • At first not really having something to do and having to finde work for myself