Wow! I want to come back every year.

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.