My Ecuaexperience = Life changing

This was my second summer joining HLD in Ecuador, and I couldn't have been happier! After my first life-changing experience with HLD I was eager to return. This summer we helped construct 20 additional homes in the community of Pujilí. It was truly rewarding to be able to spend our days working alongside the members of the community, building relationships with them despite the language barrier, and being a part of a sustainable solution in these peoples lives. Upon arrival one student from each group was elected treasurer and all of the fundraised money was given to them and anytime the group needed additional supplies at the work site the treasurer would travel with Juan or Jose (program directors) to the store to pick up supplies. All of the receipts were available to the students, which was very reassuring to know that all of the fundraised money went directly to the project.

Another aspect of this program that really stands out is the options for the LEARN portion of your Ecuaexperience (Pre-Med, Pre-Dentistry, Biomedical, and Volunteer). Personally I participated in the Pre-Medical option, where we spent time doing several different rotations through hospitals in Quito (including OR, ICU, pediatrics, radiology, ER, and sports medicine). As an aspiring physician, this gave my opportunities unlike any in North America. I was able to live the life of a physician, from doing rounds in the ICU and learning about each patient, to standing only a few feet away from the operating table, and gaining knowledge about the different types of medical imaging. This program helped me solidify my future career as a health care professional.

The discover portion of the trip was fantastic. It is rare that you actually get to experience so much of a country in only 28 days. One day was spent enjoying the natural hot springs, and the next we were hiking through the Amazon jungle. There are so many amazing adventures and cultural experiences packed into your 28 days!

This trip I also participated in the extra week trip to Peru. Our days were again filled with exciting adventures and authentic Peruvian experiences. Hiking Machu Picchu, sand boarding in the desert, flying over the Nazca lines, and trying many different Peruvian dishes...to name a few.

Both of my experiences with HLD have been life changing!!!