GoAbroad

5-8 Week High School Programs Abroad

Sitting at home can be such a bore, huh? That’s why we think you should kick your next summer (or winter!) break up a notch and consider high school study abroad for 5-8 weeks. Not only will you have ample time to settle into your new life abroad and combat culture shock, you’ll earn a real taste of what it’s like to live abroad. This can be the gateway to a career or college path that is glittered with passport stamps, international friends, epic photos, and incredible memories. Are you ready to participate in high school study abroad programs for 5-8 weeks or what?!
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Featured High School Program Provider of the Month

214 5-8 Week Programs for High School Students

AFS-USA

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AFS: High School Abroad in China

Study abroad in China to discover a fascinating intersection of ancient cultures and language with ultramodern infrastructure, innovation, and opportunity. By living with a host family and studying at a local high school in China, you’ll be totally immersed in Chinese language and cultures. You’ll find China’s size and diversity make it an ideal place to explore vibrant and varied cultures, with different regions offering wide-ranging cuisines and customs. Enjoy mouth-numbing Sichuan peppercorn, sip and savor Shanghainese xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), or slurp noodles of all sorts (mostly wheat in the North and rice in the South). Traditional celebrations, like the Lantern festival and Chinese New Year, happen throughout the year. Whether you go for a year or semester, you’ll experience timeless cultural events. China is an ideal place to step outside of your comfort zone in a uniquely historical and modern context.

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

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Top Animal Welfare Volunteer Programs & Internships Abroad

GoEco offers more than 60 wildlife and animal conservation volunteer opportunities and internships worldwide! Our programs focus on the welfare and conservation of various species, both wildlife and domestic animals. We offer volunteer opportunities and internships at wildlife rescue centers, wildlife sanctuaries, wildlife reserves and animal shelters. All of our programs are vetted and are in line with our ethical values - only ethical and supervised interactions are allowed. A few examples of our offers include working with rescued sloths in Costa Rica, rehabilitating vervet monkeys in Malawi, observing and collecting data on Africa's Big Five species and doing survey dives with whale sharks in Mozambique, just to name a few.

See All 108 Programs
Top Rated Program High School Abroad in Ecuador 2025

International Medical Aid (IMA)

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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 7 Programs

Greenheart Travel

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Teen Language Camp in Spain with Greenheart

Learn and improve your Spanish through full language and cultural immersion on Greenheart Travel’s summer language camp program in either the bustling city of Salamanca or in the southeast beaches of Alicante! We welcome teens of all skills, including beginners! Live with a Spanish host family and make friends from around the world, all while learning about the country and culture of Spain. Program at a glance: - Three morning classes for 50 minutes, Monday through Friday, in air-conditioned classrooms - Classes are taught by native-speaking teachers who specialize in teaching Spanish as a foreign language - Students receive a Certificate of Completion at the end of the course - Programs are divided by age (14-16 and 17-18)

See All 7 Programs

Seville Abroad

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High School Program in Spain with Seville Abroad

Our “High School in Spain” program lets you study at a top-quality Spanish high school in one of Seville’s most vibrant neighborhoods. You’ll live with a carefully selected host family, enjoy cultural activities and excursions, and have the full support of a locally based team. With an office right here in Seville, our staff is always close by and available to help you with anything you need—before, during, and after your stay. We offer summer, semester, and year-long programs, giving you the flexibility to choose the length that fits your plans. This program is perfect for high school students or recent graduates eager to immerse themselves in Spanish culture, improve their language skills, and experience life with a welcoming host family. While in Spain, you will live like any other local student. You’ll make new friends, experience the authentic Spanish way of living, and practice your language skills 24/7—all with the reassurance of having a dedicated local team just around the corner. Embark on this extraordinary journey, make unforgettable memories, and discover a new part of the world—your adventure in Seville awaits!

LanguBridge Education Centre

9.5

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Summer Korean Immersion Program at Seoul

The Seoul summer program of LanguBridge provides students an unforgettable immersion experience in Korea through intense language learning and cultural exploration. Participants have the opportunity to live with a host family that is more than happy to share the local culture and language with international students. This is an ideal opportunity for teens to explore a different culture and learn at the same time. The language study is hosted at a local university, which provides high-quality instruction and a safe and comfortable learning environment. Staying with a local host family allows students to immerse themselves in the local language and culture and interact with local people. The trips and culture lessons are to complement the language classes to make a fun and enriching experience. Our programs combine premium quality with unmatched value — delivering the same depth of learning and cultural engagement as other programs, but at a much lower price.

See All 3 Programs

Go Abroad China Ltd.

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High School Language & Cultural Immersion in China for Teens

Discover China Through Language & Culture. Founded in 2003, Go Abroad China (GAC) offers immersive Mandarin programs for international high school students. This program combines intensive classroom learning with real-world practice, cultural workshops, and social activities. Program Types: Short-Term (2-8 weeks): Summer/Winter camps. Long-Term (Semester/Year): Study at top Chinese schools. Customized Programs: Tailored to individual needs. What’s Included: Mandarin instruction at leading schools. Homestays, shared apartments, or dorms. One-on-one tutoring and language exchange. Cultural tours, networking, and excursions. 24/7 support for safety and guidance. Why Choose GAC? Achieve Mandarin fluency with certification. Gain cultural fluency and global exposure. Enhance college applications and career prospects. Build lifelong friendships and professional networks.

LITA

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LITA: A Unique Approach to Language Immersion in Spain

LITA is a full-immersion program that offers high school students a dynamic experience far removed from English-speaking tourism. Participants advance their language skills through small, intimate groups of 12-16 students and three group leaders, with extensive homestay experiences in small towns, internships, and other off-the-beaten-path adventures. At the same time, they acquire a genuine understanding of Spanish culture as part of a safe, structured, and personalized immersive experience. The name LITA alludes to the philosophical foundation of our program: a Spanish word ending with the diminutive “ita” that often denotes something small and personal and is something or someone toward which one feels great affection. This informs all elements of our programs.

GVI

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Sea Turtle & Cultural Immersion Teen Volunteering Thailand

This is an opportunity to collaborate with a team of volunteers aged between 15 and 17, to contribute toward local community projects in Southern Thailand, Phang Nga. Situated in a province known for its tropical beaches and surrounding islets lies an abundance of landmarks. Find yourself among the widely admired “James Bond island” or Khao Chang, a large mountain silhouetted in the shape of a crouched elephant. You’ll participate in a culturally immersive experience as you contribute toward the United Nations sustainable development goals (UN SDGs), including: Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being Goal 4: Quality Education Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production Goal 15: Life on Land Projects range from beach clean-ups, conservation support for the endangered green sea turtle, and renovation of surrounding schools. You’ll meet and make friends from around the world while learning ethical ways to volunteer and travel. You’ll also have the opportunity to earn certificates from the University of Richmond and GVI.

Expanish

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Young Adults Summer Program in Barcelona

Discover the magic of Barcelona this summer with Expanish! Our Young Adults Spanish Immersion Program invites students aged 16-20 to one of Europe's most iconic cities for a unique blend of language learning, cultural exploration, and personal growth. Whether you choose to stay with a local host family or in a student residence, this program offers an unforgettable opportunity to improve your Spanish, make friends from around the world, and experience life like a local. Ages 16-20 | 1-4 Weeks | July Start Dates Choose Your Experience: Day Program Spanish classes + activities Ideal for locals or families in the city Overnight Homestay: Live with a local family Full cultural immersion Overnight Residence: Stay with fellow students Great for independence & community

Oui-Connect

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Reciprocal High School Exchange: Host and Be Hosted

Participants aged 13-17 will host a Spanish, French, Italian, or German student for three weeks, followed by their own three-week stay abroad with the same exchange student’s family. This can take place any time between June and August. The Reciprocal Exchange is a uniquely shared experience. Both participants embark on the same adventure, creating a strong and lasting bond that enhances their language-learning journey. Participants share not just a cultural exchange but a deep friendship. It’s the best of both worlds—combining all the benefits of hosting with the excitement of going abroad. Plus, the financial advantage of this program makes it even more attractive due to its reciprocity. Participants are carefully matched based on age, gender, and shared interests.

Smart Schools International

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Your Online Pathway to Global Education

Smart Schools International (SSI) offers students around the world the opportunity to earn an accredited U.S. high school diploma entirely online. Designed for global learners, SSI provides a flexible, self-paced academic experience that allows students to complete U.S. coursework from their home country while continuing their local studies—no visas, travel, or relocation required. Through our online learning environment, students engage with certified U.S. teachers, receive personalized academic support, and develop the skills needed for university preparation and future careers. SSI serves a diverse student community representing more than 45 countries, creating a truly global classroom experience. Whether students are seeking a full U.S. diploma, a dual-diploma pathway, or supplemental online courses to strengthen academic readiness, Smart Schools International offers an accessible and affordable pathway to a world-class American education. SSI makes high-quality learning possible from anywhere in the world.

Projects Abroad

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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 26 Programs

Edu-inter, International French School in Quebec City

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French Summer School for Teenagers in Quebec City

The summer French immersion school for teenagers has been offered every summer since 2005 by Edu-inter. Through this summer camp, hundreds of teenagers live and learn French in Quebec City. This highly international program welcomes students from more than 20 countries. Students attend French classes in the morning, from 8:30am to 11:45am. Classes are organized into seven levels, and help students develop all four communication skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will also study grammar and phonetics. In the afternoons, students can select from a wide variety of programs. These options are pre-selected on a week-by-week basis. Multi-activity and multi-sports programs are operated directly by the Edu-inter team. These programs offer students fun and varied activities every afternoon. Art programs and sport programs are mostly offered in collaboration with local partners and provide students with opportunities to mix with local teenagers. Cultural activities include excursions to Montreal to visit La Ronde theme park and the Montreal Jazz Festival, LE Cirque du Soleil, the Festival de Québec, and whale-watching at Tadoussac.

Where There Be Dragons

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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 3 Programs

ASSE International Student Exchange

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Spain High School Exchange - Academic Year & Semester

Experience the vibrant spirit of Spain, where family and friendship are at the heart of daily life. Enjoy meals with your host family, savor long, relaxed lunches, and immerse yourself in a lifestyle rich in tradition. A year away can’t be measured in days alone. You’ll only be gone for a school year or semester, but the experience will enrich the rest of your life. Living in another country while attending high school is something most people never have the opportunity to do. You’ll return with new knowledge, cultural understanding, maturity, and lifelong friends from your host country. As an ASSE Exchange Student, you will delight in local flavors with your host family, from authentic paella to delicious tapas. Attend lively family gatherings, see a Flamenco show, or spend time with friends at cafés or movies. Whether for a school year, semester, or summer, you’ll have countless opportunities to connect, explore, and grow while learning one of the world’s most valuable languages. Spain is waiting to inspire you!

See All 4 Programs

Putney Student Travel

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French Language & Culture Immersion in France

Immerse yourself in the French language as you journey through six distinct regions of France—each with its own identity, landscape, and history. Begin in a small Breton fishing village and experience daily life in the countryside, then explore Paris, the cultural capital of the world. Strengthen your language skills through hands-on interactions: shop in open-air markets, interview local artisans, and learn from chefs, historians, and outdoor guides. Live with a host family and gain real insight into everyday customs and conversations. Swim in the Mediterranean, hike in the Alps, and wander medieval streets in Provence. Return home with stronger French, greater confidence, and a deeper connection to France’s rich regional diversity.

See All 2 Programs

Westcoast Connection

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U.S. Explorer - 40 Days

This summer teen tour is the ultimate American road trip, literally taking you “from sea to shining sea.” The 40-day adventure begins in New York and ends in California. Along the way, you will experience the awe of natural wonders like Niagara Falls and the Grand Canyon, the hustle and bustle of cities like Chicago, and the excitement of California. This summer program brings teens together in a welcoming group environment to connect and share unforgettable experiences. You might think the “U.S.” before “Explorer” stands for the United States… But it actually means "Unforgettable Summer!"

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USCA Academy

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USCA Academy International and Private School

USCA Academy, an esteemed international and private school in Mississauga, Ontario, prides itself on delivering exceptional education by experienced educators. Our comprehensive programs, spanning elementary to high school, including the Ontario Secondary School Diploma, University Preparation, and Grade 1-8 Full Day programs, highlight our commitment to academic excellence. As a leading Mississauga private school, we provide Language Preparation Coaching (IELTS/TOFEL/ESL), Waterloo Math Contest Coaching, Quality Tutoring, and more. Amidst the overwhelming school choices in Mississauga, USCA Academy stands out, offering a supportive environment for students to build fundamental knowledge and practical skills. Our dedicated staff ensures a holistic educational experience, empowering students not only academically but also for real-world applications, setting the stage for successful careers. Discover a transformative educational journey at USCA Academy, where we equip students with resources and guidance for academic success and personal development. Choose us for a comprehensive and empowering education that prepares students for a future filled with opportunities.

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

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Volunteer in Cambodia: The Heart of South East Asia

Discover the beauty and history of Cambodia while contributing to meaningful, community-driven initiatives through International Volunteer HQ. With projects based in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Battambang, IVHQ’s Cambodia program gives volunteers the chance to experience the country’s rich culture while supporting impactful local causes. Volunteers can choose from six trusted project options year-round, including Teaching English, Childcare, Medical, Special Needs Care, and NGO Support. Whether you’re looking to gain hands-on experience, give back during your travels, or immerse yourself in a new way of life, IVHQ Cambodia offers something for everyone. Programs are available from 2 to 24 weeks and include everything you need for a fully-supported experience: airport pick-up, orientation, meals, accommodation in shared volunteer houses or local homestays, and 24/7 in-country assistance. You’ll also be supported before you depart by your IVHQ Program Manager and have access to pre-departure training tools. Explore ancient temples, vibrant markets, and Cambodia’s fascinating history while forming lasting connections with the local community.

A Guide to High school abroad for 5-8 weeks

Best Locations

When it comes to high school study abroad, the world is your oyster. You can opt for a destination that many teens love—like Spain or Italy—or go completely off the beaten path in a country like South Africa or China. Awesome, right?! Here are popular locations for 5-8 week long high school abroad programs.

France. Between the gorgeous cityscapes and the delicious dinner plates, it’s no wonder intrepid teens have been making their way to France for decades. While here, you can practice (maybe even master?!) your French—perfect for getting ahead on your college credits. You can even study subjects like Art History or International Business (can you see your college applications sparkling yet?). Just don’t forget to picnic near Eiffel Tower with your besties!

Costa Rica. If you love the beach, have a knack for adventure, and also can’t get enough of those cute bright green frogs, then a 5-8 week long high school summer abroad program in Costa Rica might be your calling. Pack your sunscreen and bug spray for an epic experience in the jungle. Here, you can improve your Spanish skills, do meaningful community service and volunteer work, or learn how to ride the waves. Pura vida? More like pure adventure!

Australia. If you hate sweating, sunburns, and constantly feeling like you’re going to melt—no problem. Head south of the equator to a country like Australia for your 5-8 week high school study abroad program! The winters in Australia aren’t harsh, meaning you’ll have plenty of sunshine to explore the coastline, dive with the fishies, maybe even take a koala selfie? Find yourself down under getting in touch with nature and completing conservation volunteer work.

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
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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.

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