GoAbroad

High School Study Abroad in South America

Diving into a high school study abroad program in South America means stepping into a region bursting with color, culture, and once-in-a-lifetime learning moments. From lively cities to legendary landscapes, every corner offers something new to discover. Whether you want to level up your academics, sharpen your Spanish, or soak in a totally different way of life, South America promises an adventure that sticks with you long after you return home.
Read More
Maximo Nivel students

Featured High School Program Provider of the Month

88 High School Programs in South America

Arcos Journeys Abroad

9.7

20

Spanish Language & Argentine Culture

Study Spanish in the vibrant city of Buenos Aires! This cosmopolitan South American capital is known as the Paris of South America. Take language classes in the mornings at a Cervantes Institute in the very heart of downtown and only a block from the Plaza de Mayo. Live with a carefully selected homestay in one of the city’s historic neighborhoods. Experience the very best Buenos Aires has to offer such as bike rides through an ecological reserve, boating in Palermo park, and the passion of a tango performance. Tour the famous neighborhoods of La Recoleta, San Telmo, and Palermo. Learn about the gaucho, the Argentine cowboy, while spending a day horseback riding and enjoying an asado or traditional barbecue. Cruise the canals of El Tigre, the delta region north of Buenos Aires where boats are the only means of transportation. Get another stamp in your passport and travel to Colonia, Uruguay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoons, explore the incredibly rich and eclectic neighborhoods of Buenos Aires. All levels of Spanish are welcome.

See All 5 Programs

AFS-USA

8.8

5

AFS Intercultural Programs: High School Abroad in Argentina

Mention Argentina and people think of gauchos, sultry tango dancers, or maybe Evita - but there's more, from first-rate museums, galleries, theaters, and architecture to stunning natural wonders and a variety of landscapes that you will not find anywhere else. The nation's territorial sweep ranges from Iguazu Falls in the steamy northeastern rainforest, to glacier-topped mountains and penguin colonies in the south, to the world-famous broad and fertile plains of the Pampas. Sophisticated and lively Buenos Aires will keep you moving, whether you find yourself strolling down the Avenida 9 de Julio, one of the widest streets in the world; taking in an opera at the world-renowned Teatro Colón; or sipping mate (a kind of green tea) with friends. You might also take a liking to the country's homegrown rock music, grooving to icons like Charly Garcia, Fito Paez, Los Fabulosos Cadillacs, and Soda Stereo. Europe's influence is strong in Argentina, yet you'll find it has a vigorous identity of its own—placing high values on culture, tradition, and hospitality.

See All 10 Programs

CIEE High School Abroad

8

3

CIEE HS Summer Abroad: Spanish Language in Buenos Aires

Unleash your talent for Spanish in the "Paris of South America." Accelerate your Spanish with four weeks of language immersion in one of the world's most beloved cities, Buenos Aires. After language classes, dive into conversations at lively markets, on colorful streets, and in the hip, historic corners of the city. Get an insider’s feel for Argentina’s multicultural identity through its tango music, street art, and fútbol. Meet local teens while visiting the cultural centers of Corrientes Avenue, the historic French-styled neighborhood of Recoleta, the Museum of Latin American Art (MALBA), and more. At your homestay, practice your new language skills and acclimate to Argentinian life. On weekend excursions, visit an estancia (ranch) to eat some of the best "parrillada" (barbecue) and embark on a trip to Iguazú, the largest waterfall system in the world where you'll take in Argentina's lush, biodiverse landscapes. By immersing yourself in this creative and passionate country, you will advance your Spanish and experience one of the most unique blends of Latin American and European cultures.

Travel For Teens

10

3

Travel For Teens: Peru Service

Peru Service is one of our most spectacular trips for teens finishing grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. It offers the opportunity to perform meaningful service helping the local communities of Misminay and Urubamba while exploring the most iconic sites of this South American gem! Your rewarding days of service will be spent on projects ranging from aiding in construction projects and farming to teaching English as a second language. The rest of your time will be nothing short of transformative as you experience the unique atmosphere of the Sacred Valley. Drink in the mountain culture of Cusco as you see the mix of Inca and Colonial architecture around the Plaza de Armas and the temple of Coricancha. You will also peruse vibrant handicraft markets and marvel at the mesmerizing Inca city of Machu Picchu. Service, culture, incredible sights, and adventure. What more could you ask for in a Peruvian summer?

See All 4 Programs

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

9.68

37

GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

See All 16 Programs
Top Rated Program High School Abroad in Ecuador 2025

International Medical Aid (IMA)

9.96

160

Global Health & Pre-Medicine Internships Abroad | IMA

IMA offers an opportunity to enhance your medical and healthcare knowledge with International Medical Aid's Pre-Med and Health Fellowships. Crafted for pre-med undergraduates, medical students, and high school students, these fellowships offer a unique chance to engage deeply with global health care in East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. Shadow doctors in underserved communities, and immerse yourself in diverse healthcare systems through our extensive network of public and private hospitals. IMA, a nonprofit organization, is deeply invested in the communities we serve, focusing on sustainable health solutions and ethical care practices. You'll be involved in community medical clinics, public health education, and first responder training, addressing the root causes of disease and illness alongside local community leaders. Beyond clinical experience, explore the beauty of your host country through cultural excursions and adventure programs during your free time. Join IMA's fellowships developed at Johns Hopkins University and step into a role that transcends traditional healthcare learning, blending clinical excellence with meaningful community service.

See All 8 Programs

Greenheart Travel

6.25

4

High School Study Abroad in Argentina with Greenheart Travel

Greenheart Travel's high school abroad program in Argentina offers you a great opportunity to spend your summer, trimester, semester, or academic year as an exchange student while living with a local Argentinian host family. It promises full cultural immersion, allowing you to practice your Spanish fluency, learn about a new culture, and gain valuable skills to help meet your personal and academic goals. Program at a glance: - Host family accommodation provides full language and cultural immersion - 2 years of Spanish experience required - Choose a trimester, semester, or academic year program - Start dates are available in the fall or come for 2 months during the U.S. summer (Argentina's winter is North America's summer!) - Online application process

Mente Argentina

10

11

Comprehensive High School Study Abroad in Buenos Aires

Explore your academic and cultural horizons with Mente Argentina’s High School Program in Buenos Aires, designed specifically for students aged 15 and older. This program combines intensive Spanish language courses with a deep dive into Argentine culture, offering a safe and enriching environment for high school students to learn and grow. Why Choose Mente Argentina’s High School Program? Our program is uniquely designed to provide high school students with a comprehensive learning experience that goes beyond the classroom. You will not only improve your Spanish skills but also gain global perspectives by interacting with local students and international peers. Supported by Mente Argentina’s extensive experience in hosting international students, you receive continuous support and guidance, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and educational experience. Join Mente Argentina in Buenos Aires and turn your high school study abroad into an adventure of a lifetime, filled with learning, discovery, and growth.

Putney Student Travel

8.71

7

Spanish Language & Service in Ecuador & the Galápagos

Strengthen your Spanish skills and experience life in both the Andean highlands and the Galápagos Islands on this language immersion and service program. Join a welcoming host community outside Quito to support agriculture and construction projects while learning Spanish through daily interaction and guided language activities. Live with a local family, share meals, and participate in community traditions that deepen your connection and cultural understanding. Explore the cloud forest and visit Cotopaxi National Park for breathtaking hikes and horseback riding across the páramo. Then fly to the Galápagos to snorkel with sea lions, observe giant tortoises and iguanas up close, and learn how conservation efforts protect fragile ecosystems unique to these volcanic islands.

See All 4 Programs

Global Works

9.8

5

Ecuador Teen Travel Programs

On the Ecuador: Galapagos & Andean Service Adventure program, immerse yourself in a meaningful homestay with local families on mainland Ecuador. Participate in impactful community service and cultural exchange. Work alongside community members, as well as visiting and learning from an indigenous community. Then, explore the biodiverse and historic Galapagos Island. Snorkel with penguins, sea lions, marine iguanas, and colorful tropical fish. Learn about the conservation efforts of a unique ecosystem! Hike one of the largest volcanic craters on earth at Isabella Island. Visit and interact with a giant tortoise breeding center. Traveling to Ecuador is truly the adventure of a lifetime!

See All 2 Programs

Rustic Pathways

9.38

8

Peru Service and Adventure Travel Programs - Rustic Pathways

Stand in the shadows of the majestic Andes mountains, connect with warm-hearted indigenous peoples and their culture, and take a selfie with a llama! Peru offers the opportunity to trek majestic trails, explore ancient ruins, visit rural villages, and engage in meaningful community service and genuine connection with the locals. Sacred Valley Service – Step into the past and marvel at the breathtaking landscapes and architectural wonders of Machu Picchu. Plus, engage in service projects that contribute to the well-being of local communities in the Sacred Valley. The Andes to Amazon – From Machu Picchu to the Amazon Rainforest, discover ancient civilizations, connect with the locals in small mountain communities, and give a helping hand to service projects that will benefit rural areas long-term. Andes to Amazon College Program – This is the college version of Andes to Amazon, open to students ages 88-22.

See All 2 Programs

ARCC Programs

10

2

Ecuador & Galápagos: Animals of the Amazon

Embark on a transformative 19-day service-learning program in Ecuador, where we delve into the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon and the unique ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands. Our adventure kicks off with hands-on conservation efforts, including participating in an Amazonian reforestation project aimed at restoring critical habitats. We’ll gain firsthand experience in wildlife rescue, collaborating with local NGOs to rehabilitate endangered species and contribute to vital environmental initiatives. As we explore the lush landscapes, we’ll whitewater raft down the Río Napo and zipline through the Mindo Cloud Forest, soaking in the natural beauty around us. Our time in the Galápagos will be extraordinary, as we snorkel alongside sea lions and other marine life, while engaging in essential land rehabilitation projects to combat invasive species and preserve native flora. With 25 hours of community service dedicated to protecting Ecuador’s ecosystems, we will develop practical conservation skills and cultivate a deeper appreciation for biodiversity. Join us for this unforgettable journey filled with adventure, learning, and meaningful contributions to the environment!

See All 2 Programs

GoBeyond Student Travel

9.75

8

GoBeyond - Global Community Service Adventures for Teens

This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and build cross-cultural community service summer trips perfectly geared to your interests and curiosities. Whether you’re looking to contribute to authentic service projects, experience exhilarating adventure, or develop your language skills, GoBeyond will immerse you in a new culture where you can make a meaningful difference while on the journey of a lifetime. Our high school community service summer programs proudly serve in many under-resourced communities and environments throughout the world. Explore our journeys in the British Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, Galapagos & Ecuador, Peru, Iceland, Spain, China, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, and Australia. Beyond experiencing the adventure of a lifetime and creating lasting memories, we believe our community service summer trips enable lasting positive change in the world. For over forty years, we’ve been transforming communities, environments, and students’ lives through meaningful, collaborative adventures and service that develop skills and a more sophisticated worldly outlook—ultimately shaping the person you become.

See All 3 Programs

Projects Abroad

9.41

296

Global Leader In Meaningful Travel. Trusted By 130,000

At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose. Since being founded in 1992, more than 130,000 volunteers have traveled to over 20 destinations around the world. Our programs will make you step out of your comfort zone and engage with your new friends from around the world. These are long-term projects, led by local people and aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. By taking part in our programs, even for a short time, you will be contributing towards a sustained effort to support the communities that host us! We believe no other provider offers the safety and security to their volunteers and interns that we do. You'll receive 24-hour staff support from our trained staff, alongside a gold standard of safety planning of your trip - so you don't have to worry about a thing. Choose a project you are passionate about from working with children to medical internship, conservation, and wildlife volunteering. We offer projects starting at one week in over 20 stunning destinations across Asia, Africa, Latin America & The Caribbean, South Pacific & Europe. Ready to make a difference? Follow the link to visit our website!

See All 14 Programs

Westcoast Connection

0

0

Ecuador & the Galapagos Service & Adventure - 18 Days

Experience South America's natural beauty and cultural richness in this summer volunteer program. Work on diverse community service projects alongside locals in Quito and the Amazon Rainforest and unwind in the spectacular Galapagos Islands. When not volunteering, explore Quito – the first city declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Straddle the Northern and Southern Hemispheres at the same time. Be one of the privileged travelers to visit the Galapagos Islands, where we explore the home of Darwin’s theory of evolution and observe many endemic species of animals, including the giant land tortoise. Not to mention the breathtaking views of the dense rainforest and rushing waterfalls in Baños. This program will awaken your sense of adventure as we whitewater raft and snorkel past stingrays, sea lions, sea stars, and more in crystal blue waters! Please note that a limited number of participants depart on day 12, while teens on the 18-day program continue to the Galapagos Islands.

See All 3 Programs

Broadreach

9

1

Amazon + Galapagos: Eco Adventure

Track a tapir and Andean bears in a cloud forest. Study primates and rainforest ecology in the Amazon. Then get ready to explore the Galápagos, one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world, on this 20-day adventure for high school students 16 and up. Tropical ecosystems exhibit an amazing degree of biodiversity and species richness, and this program brings you into the heart of it all - the Andes Mountains, the Amazon Rainforest, and the Galápagos Islands. Conduct biological surveys while you track Andean mountain bears, jaguars, and the elusive tapir. Head into a remote part of the Amazon jungle where the world's most biodiverse region is right at your fingertips. Snorkel and explore the pristine islands of the Galápagos Archipelago, home to the widest array of flora and fauna on the planet. We are offering two sessions for 2026 (while space lasts): June 22 - July 11, 2026 July 13 - August 1, 2026

ASSE International Student Exchange

0

0

High School Year or Semester

Embark on the unique journey of spending a school year or semester abroad with ASSE! Living with a host family abroad and attending a public high school allows for a long-term immersive experience in the culture of the host country of your choice. There are so many reasons to decide to go on exchange: - Become fluent in another language - Get to experience the culture as an insider - not a tourist - Build a stronger resume for college applications - Develop leadership skills, self-confidence, independence, maturity - Discover another school system - Learn about building friendships, respecting differences, and tolerating the beliefs of others. By becoming a high school exchange student, you will better understand the complexities of the world around you and become a true world citizen. As one of the oldest and largest international student exchange organizations, ASSE can offer the most comprehensive Study Abroad Programs with the lowest possible fees for your school year or semester abroad. Take the leap today!

Where There Be Dragons

10

2

Peru: Sacred Mountains (Summer)

Celebrate Peru’s unbelievable diversity: travel along tropical waterways, live with Quechua families in the high Andes, and explore the threads of past and present in the land of the Inca. Dragons Peru summer abroad program offers students the opportunity to dig into critical development issues by living with families in remote indigenous communities and exploring seldom-visited regions of the sacred Andes Mountains and lush Amazonian forests. Dragons Peru summer abroad course is a rugged and challenging journey through the folds of time, offering exposure to critical development issues of today through the lens of the cultures, communities, and stunning backdrops of the past. It is ideal for students who want to develop wilderness and leadership skills while engaging in hands-on service and in an inspection of the critical development issues facing Latin America. Expect to live closely with remote indigenous communities and trek through awe-inspiring terrain as you discover profound new relationships with yourself and the world around you. We have 4 and 6-week options available for this program.

See All 2 Programs

Global Leadership Adventures

9.86

14

GLA Peru Programs for Teens

Home to the incredible Andes Mountains, Peru features a diverse landscape, plus traditions and culture that have survived for centuries. GLA offers several programs for teens in the Cuzco and Sacred Valley areas, focusing on volunteer and educational opportunities and cultural exploration. From treks in the highlands to a day with llamas to river rafting adventures, there's something for everyone here. Depending on the program you select, you'll experience different activities and work toward separate learning objectives. - Service Expedition in the Sacred Valley (14 or 21 days): Lend a hand on various projects that improve the lives of those who call the Sacred Valley home. - Foundations of Global Health (14 or 21 days): Assist with public health initiatives in rural highland communities. - Internship: Career Exploration In Sciences & STEM (21 days): Earn college credit and complete a project in this intensive internship experience, with a focus on engineering and sustainable development.

Alzar School & Gap

10

6

Alzar School High School Semester

Alzar School brings students to the intersection of engaging academics, cultural exchange, and outdoor adventure. Spend a semester split between the mountains of Idaho and Patagonia, Chile. We are a semester school for highly motivated high school sophomores and juniors. Challenging and engaging academic coursework is essential to building the skills needed to lead change. Our courses are made more relevant and powerful by connecting to student experiences and the places we explore. Living internationally broadens perspectives, and deep personal growth can be found through challenge in the outdoors. This whole-person approach to education, combined with the benefits of living in a small community, leads to tremendous outcomes. Throughout your entire semester, you will gain tangible leadership skills and discover how you can use this knowledge to take action to improve your communities.

How to Do a High School Program Abroad in South America

Prepare for High School Study Abroad in South America

Set goals

A little reflection upfront can help shape every choice you make. Setting clear goals makes your high school experience abroad feel intentional and empowering.

  • Pinpoint your purpose. Think about why you want to study abroad and what kind of growth you’re hoping for to guide your program search and create a more meaningful experience.
  • Choose your learning style. Some programs focus on schoolwork, while others lean into culture, service, or travel. Pick the structure that gets you excited to show up every day.
  • Think about comfort levels. Reflect on how independent you’re ready to be and choose a program that supports you while still stretching your confidence.

Understand the benefits

Studying abroad in South America gives high school students a potent mix of academic, cultural, and personal growth. You’ll return home more confident, more aware of the world, and more prepared for college life.

  • Authentic language and cultural immersion. Engaging in daily conversations and routines with locals allows you to absorb the language and traditions in a way that goes beyond textbooks and typical tourism.
  • A globalized education. Programs in South America let you explore new academic environments, broaden your worldview, and strengthen your college applications.
  • Personal independence. Navigating transportation, school routines, and social expectations abroad boosts confidence and life skills fast.

Popular Providers

Latest Program Reviews

From the Andes to the Clinic: How My IMA Global Health Internship in Peru Transformed My Understanding of Medicine and Culture

December 11, 2025by: Andrea Herzog - United StatesProgram: Global Health & Pre-Medicine Internships Abroad | IMA
10

My internship with International Medical Aid in Peru was life-changing and gave me deep insight into global health disparities and the cultural complexities of healthcare delivery. As I immersed myself in the tapestry of Peruvian life, I was consistently struck by the resilience of the health providers and the people they served. From learning about Incan history to seeing firsthand how healthcare can look very different between the United States and Peru, the experience was full of meaningful revelations. These moments expanded my worldview and helped cement my desire to pursue a career in healthcare with a focus on underserved populations. One of the most impactful aspects of my time in Peru was seeing how healthcare delivery contrasted with what I was used to in the United States. In many rural areas, the infrastructure for health care is still developing. Some clinics and hospitals lacked basic medical supplies and advanced diagnostic equipment that are often taken for granted in more developed settings. For instance, at Clinic Metropolitano, we frequently took blood pressure by hand because there were few automatic machines. In these circumstances, healthcare professionals demonstrated tremendous resourcefulness and creativity. Specialized care was often limited, especially in rural regions, and many patients had to travel long distances to receive basic healthcare, let alone see a specialist. During mental health clinics in a rural town, I saw how limited access to psychiatric care affected patients. Some women struggled to find support if they experienced sexual or physical violence, and young children did not always have the opportunity to speak openly with a psychologist about issues at home or school. At the same time, I was able to observe a public healthcare system that aimed to provide care to all who worked and contributed. For example, those eligible for EsSalud clinics could receive treatment, but they sometimes faced long waits for appointments, procedures, and medications that were occasionally out of stock. When I visited a hospital to observe an Achilles tendon repair, I learned the patient had waited a year for surgery—an experience that highlighted the realities of limited resources. I also noticed that patient privacy was handled differently in a busy public teaching hospital. Interns were often allowed to observe and sometimes participate in procedures in ways that would be approached more cautiously in the United States. These experiences helped me better understand the trade-offs, pressures, and ethical considerations that come with delivering care in resource-limited, high-demand settings. Navigating cultural differences was part of everyday life in Peru. The country’s rich cultural heritage—rooted in Indigenous, Spanish, and African histories—shapes both healthcare practices and health beliefs. One of the most important lessons I learned was the value of cultural competence in healthcare. When cultural differences are understood and respected, they can significantly improve patient outcomes and satisfaction. Traditional medicine and healers remain highly relevant in many Peruvian communities, especially in rural areas. During my internship, I often saw patients using leaves and other herbal remedies that had been passed down through generations. I observed healthcare providers who respectfully acknowledged these practices while also introducing modern medical interventions when needed, carefully balancing both approaches. I also saw patients who self-medicated with antibiotics and pain medications purchased from street vendors. Although this practice can be risky, physicians approached these conversations with patience and education, encouraging safer behaviors. This experience reinforced for me how essential it is to build trust and collaborate with local communities to provide holistic, culturally sensitive, and effective care. Language barriers were another meaningful part of the learning process. Even though I was conversational in Spanish, many patients spoke only Quechua, an Indigenous language common in the Andean region. This sometimes made verbal communication challenging, but it also underscored the universal nature of empathy in healthcare. One powerful moment occurred when I interacted with a 91-year-old woman who came to the clinic alone. Despite the language gap, we communicated through gestures and with the help of the physician’s limited Quechua. That encounter showed me how deeply kindness, patience, and compassionate presence can impact someone who rarely receives medical attention. I also encountered patients with chronic conditions whose health had been affected by a combination of access issues, lifestyle factors, and healthcare hesitancy. For example, one man in his fifties had uncontrolled diabetes that was leading to neuropathy and vision problems because he did not consistently renew his insulin. Due in part to diet and social norms, many patients lived with chronic hypertension. One patient, who had been taking his medications for three months, still presented with a blood pressure of 176/101. The doctor immediately referred him to the emergency room, knowing that such levels could lead to a stroke or heart attack. These cases were powerful reminders of the importance of preventive care, education, and easily accessible services in managing chronic disease. Another highlight of my internship was learning about Peru’s rich Incan history and how it continues to influence health beliefs and practices today. The Incas were known for their sophisticated knowledge of medicine and their holistic approach to healthcare. They used a wide variety of medicinal plants, many of which remain central to traditional Andean medicine. The Incan emphasis on the mind–body–spirit connection is still reflected in the beliefs of many Indigenous communities. As part of my internship, I visited several archaeological sites where we discussed the Incan approach to health and medicine. I learned about trepanation, the surgical removal of a piece of the skull to treat head injuries—a practice that revealed advanced knowledge of anatomy and surgical technique. These visits gave me a deep appreciation for Peru’s cultural heritage and the ways historical knowledge continues to shape modern health practices. During a tour of the city and surrounding ruins, we also learned about the arrival of the Spanish and the impact of colonization on the Incan people. We heard stories of the encomienda system and the attempted rebellion led by Tupac Amaru, the last Incan leader, whose tragic fate is still remembered. The Plaza de Armas—also called the Plaza de Lágrimas—was the site of many of these events and remains a powerful symbol of resilience and history. Seeing Spanish-built cathedrals constructed with repurposed Incan stone was a vivid reminder of the layers of history present in modern-day Peru. Overall, the tour was an unforgettable experience that deepened my understanding of Incan and Spanish history and its lasting influence on the region. Comparing the healthcare systems of the United States and Peru was eye-opening and thought-provoking. In the United States, healthcare is often characterized by advanced technology, ready access to specialized care, and a strong emphasis on patient autonomy—though these benefits are intertwined with high costs and complex insurance systems. In Peru, particularly in rural areas, healthcare is shaped by limited resources, the continued relevance of traditional medicine, and strong family and community involvement in health decisions. I noticed that patients in the United States are often highly informed about their conditions and actively involved in decision-making. In Peru’s rural communities, there tended to be more deference to healthcare professionals and traditional healers. This difference seemed linked to varying levels of education, cultural beliefs, and access to medical information. I saw many instances where patients trusted and followed the advice of their providers wholeheartedly. Preventive care was another area of contrast. In the United States, routine screenings and vaccinations are widely promoted. In Peru, preventive services can be harder to access, and patients may seek care later in the course of their illness, when conditions are more advanced. This experience sharpened my awareness of the importance of public health initiatives and the need to improve access to preventive care worldwide. Ultimately, this internship was not just an academic experience—it was a journey of personal growth. Living and working within another cultural and healthcare system pushed me beyond my comfort zone and taught me to adapt quickly. I learned to navigate communication barriers, build rapport with patients from diverse backgrounds, and develop a deep respect for cultural practices that differ from my own. These experiences have made me more flexible, empathetic, and culturally sensitive. Some of the most rewarding moments came from bonding with local healthcare providers and community members. Their dedication, perseverance, and compassion were incredibly inspiring. Despite the challenges and resource limitations they faced, they were unwavering in their commitment to providing the best possible care. Their example strengthened my own resolve to pursue a health-related career focused on service and equity. Now, more than ever, I am committed to working in healthcare—particularly in global health and healthcare equity. After completing my undergraduate studies and medical school, I envision myself serving underserved populations in international settings, working to increase access to and improve the quality of care. I am also deeply interested in public health initiatives that address social determinants of health and emphasize preventive care. My time in Peru sparked a fascination with medical anthropology and the ways cultural beliefs and practices influence health behaviors. I believe that understanding these factors on a deeper level will help create more effective interventions and better health outcomes. My internship with International Medical Aid in Peru changed my life and provided invaluable insight into global healthcare disparities and cultural competence. From the ingenuity of healthcare providers working in resource-limited settings to the richness of cultural heritage preserved since the Incan civilization, every day offered something meaningful to learn. The differences between the healthcare systems of the United States and Peru were both surprising and illuminating, reinforcing the need to work toward more equitable global systems. This experience solidified my commitment to a career in medicine, with a focus on global health and healthcare equity. It taught me the importance of empathy, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity in delivering compassionate, effective care. As I continue on my path toward becoming a physician, I am motivated to apply what I learned in Peru to advocate for improved access to quality healthcare for all, regardless of socioeconomic background.

Deals Banner Image
Apply for Scholarships & Deals on GoAbroad

to get exclusive discounts on meaningful travel programs!

Apply Now

Recent High School Abroad Articles

girl looking at phone in the dark with face lit up
Top Picks
two men chatting outside
Program Selection Tips
Teen boy writing in notebook
Health & Safety Tips
Students on a beach in Costa Rica
Culture Shock Tips
Backpackers hiking in the mountains
After Your Life Abroad
Firework display in city of Kuwait
Culture Shock Tips
Girl in library reaching for book
Travel Tips
lifeguard on duty
Travel Tips