Costa Rica
Costa Rica: Intro to Pre-Med And Public Health
About the Program
This immersive program offers students hands-on experience in the fields of pre-med and public health while exploring the beauty of Costa Rica. Participants will work alongside local healthcare professionals, gain medical certifications, and volunteer in clinics that serve underserved communities. With a mix of cultural exchange, healthcare education, and outdoor adventure, this program provides a meaningful introduction to global health issues and practical medical experience in a tropical setting.
Itinerary
Discover the exciting adventures and impactful moments that await each day on this itinerary!
- Fly into San Jose, meet the Global Works leader, and drive to the lodge
- Participate in orientation and health education workshops
- Volunteer with a partner providing health services to immigrant families
- Assist with kids’ health education, observe doctors, and support patient intake
- Continue clinic visits and health education classes
- Engage with the community through additional health initiatives
- Reflect on patient interactions and the healthcare system
- Travel to La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano
- Work alongside community members on health education and rural clinic visits
- Learn about the scope of medicine at an alternative health clinic
- Zip-line and waterfall hike adventure
- Travel to Pacific Coast
- Take surf lessons for professional instructors
- Enjoy a celebratory dinner and reflection
- Fly home!
Educational Focus & Highlights
Hands-On Clinic Experience
Assist healthcare professionals in clinics serving immigrant families. Engage in health education, observe doctors, and support patient intake while learning about Costa Rica’s healthcare system.
Serve Local Communities
Work directly with communities on health initiatives, providing much-needed support while gaining insight into local healthcare challenges and solutions.
Explore Holistic Approaches
Visit an alternative health clinic to broaden your understanding of medical practices in Costa Rica. Learn how traditional and holistic treatments are integrated into healthcare.
Adventuring through the Jungle and on the Waves
Experience Costa Rica’s adventurous side with thrilling zip-line tours through the jungle canopy. Take exhilierating surf lessons on the Pacific Coast, perfect for all levels.
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Participants
Participants stay in comfortable, dorm-style rooms that typically accommodate 4-6 students per room. These accommodations are carefully selected and often include locally run hotels or eco-lodges that reflect the culture of the area. Each location is selected to have private meeting spaces for group activities, ensuring both a supportive and appropriate environment for our programs.
Chaperones
Chaperones can expect to stay in private rooms, unless otherwise noted by the Global Works operations team. These rooms are located in the same facility as the student accommodations, allowing for a peaceful environment to relax and recharge without compromising proximity to the group. During homestays, chaperones typically have a choice to either stay with a homestay family or in a nearby hotel (location dependent).
Bring Your Classroom to the World
Collaborate with Global Works on an impactful service-learning travel program for your students.
