The VIDA Veterinary trip I took to Costa Rica and Panama was one of the most rewarding, eye-opening, and exciting trips I have ever been on. The staff, especially our coordinator, seemed to know everyone everywhere we went which made the culture shock of visiting Central America that much easier. The veterinary trip was one full of challenge and education and will make me a better veterinarian (knock on wood) for having been a participant. To my knowledge, vet schools look very favorably on the VIDA Veterinary volunteers because it shows that we are driven to help animals, and willing to step out of our comfort zones to do so. My VIDA trip was a phenomenal veterinary and cultural experience balled into one, and is a trip that I will never forget! Thanks VIDA!

My VIDA experience in Costa Rica was one I will never forget and will think of fondly for years to come. I never realized what an impact such a small group of people could have on a community in just a few short days. During the clinic, I bettered my understanding of basic medical practices and learned about specific diseases found in Central America. I even experienced taking an ultrasound of a 18 week pregnant mother's womb. It was a beautiful experience.
The social aspect of a VIDA adventure was equally enlightening. I made friends that will last a life time and the relationships foraged with the interpreters and doctors was invaluable. Overall VIDA is a fantastic opportunity for pre-health and non-health students alike. It really opens your eyes to the good that can be accomplished when we all work together.

This trip was absolutely life-changing, both in my professional and personal life. I learned an incredible amount from the doctors I worked with. They were incredibly patient and truly wanted us to learn everything. The patients we encountered were so sweet and grateful. The social scene was amazing as well. We had plenty of time to ourselves to explore the towns and have fun. The staff joined us in almost everything and I got just as close with some of them as I did with the rest of the volunteers. I still keep in close contact with number of volunteers, doctors, and staff that I met on this trip.

One of my favorite parts of the trip was playing soccer with everybody at a restaurant in Puerto Jimenez. It was the most fun game of soccer I've ever played. I also really enjoyed snorkeling in the islands of Bocas del Toro, Panama. We saw tons of animals including dolphins. I really enjoyed exploring this town and meeting locals.

I loved that VIDA took us to numerous cities throughout Costa Rica and Panama. I experienced the busiest of cities as well as the most rural of towns. The inhabitants were so different yet all so kind.

I would highly recommend VIDA to anyone. I am currently returning this summer for a second trip to Costa Rica and Nicaragua. It is completely worth it. It opened my eyes to the rest of the world, and it helped me realize that I had chosen the best career for me. Helping people who need so much help is incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.