Aiden Review of Peru

My summer trip to Peru was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. For two weeks, I was immersed in a culture rich with history, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, and engaged in work that gave me a deeper understanding of both healthcare and humanity. We stayed primarily in Cusco. While the trip included sightseeing and adventure, the most meaningful part of the experience came from the days we spent setting up mobile health clinics in rural areas of Peru.
Over three days, our group organized and ran these clinics, bringing basic healthcare services to communities that often lacked easy access to them. Each clinic had several stations: triage, pharmacy, dental, toothbrushing, and general diagnosis. I rotated between these areas, learning something new at every stop. In triage, I helped record basic patient information and take vital signs. In pharmacy, I assisted in preparing medication under supervision, making sure patients received what they needed and understood how to use it. One of my favorite roles was in the toothbrushing station, where I helped teach children how to properly care for their teeth. Their excitement and curiosity made the language barrier fade away, and it was clear that kindness and patience could communicate more than words.

The most eye-opening experience came in the general diagnosis room. I shadowed a local doctor who allowed me to observe patient consultations, write down prescriptions, and ask questions. She explained each case carefully, pointing out the challenges of diagnosing and treating patients in low-resource areas. I remember one of the doctors explaining how the limited diet in some of these rural areas made carbs, especially potatoes the only option. This led to heart issues, due to clogged arteries. I began to understand the broader impact of limited medical access, not just in terms of health but also in how it affected families, education, and opportunity. The experience deepened my appreciation for global healthcare work and made me realize how much difference small acts of service can make.

Outside the clinics, our group spent time exploring Peru’s natural and cultural beauty. We took a two-day trip to Machu Picchu, a place that felt almost unreal. The ancient ruins, surrounded by clouds and mountains, gave me a new perspective on human history and resilience. We also participated in local activities, music lessons, cooking traditional Peruvian dishes, white-water rafting, ziplining, and visiting Cusco’s markets. These moments helped me connect more deeply with the culture and the people, making the trip not only educational but also incredibly fun.

What made this experience truly unique was how it blended service, adventure, and learning into one unforgettable journey. I was not just a tourist, I was part of something larger, a collaboration between volunteers and local professionals to bring care and hope to those who needed it most. I came home with more than memories of beautiful places, I came back with a deeper understanding of empathy, cultural exchange, and the power of helping others. My trip to Peru reminded me that meaningful experiences often come from stepping outside your comfort zone and opening yourself to the world.