Volunteer in Healthcare and Medicine in Costa Rica

IVHQ provided an amazing opportunity to learn, grow, and immerse myself in a new culture. Living with a host family and working with the local community helped me develop adaptability, communication skills, and a deeper understanding of global service.

IVHQ gave me all the tools and information necessary to be prepared for my trip abroad. They stayed in touch throughout my preparation process and while in Costa Rica. Their step by step guidance made the process very simple. Their description was what I expected upon my arrival. Overall, the costs they assessed did cover what they said it would. I was unaware of some of the processing fees, outside of their advertised price. Upon further inspection, they were provided (in a smaller sub-text). Regardless, the trip was affordable. I am grateful for the opportunity and look forward to more trips with them in the future!

During an 11 hour flight to Costa Rica, all i could feel was stress about how my trip was going to be, the house i'm gonna stay in, the family, my roommates, my project, how am i going to communicate with my basic Spanish. I did not know then i was embarking on the best experience of my life and all i needed was excitement. From the first moment i stepped on this country i felt it was gonna be great. Communication required some hand gestures but that led to the funniest moments as well! The family i stayed with was amazing, the organisation (IVHQ) and everyone working there were more than helpful and accommodating, my roommates and everyone i met will always be my friends and part of this amazing journey and more importantly i will never forget my placement and the people working at the nursing home of Cartago. 3 weeks were not enough and i will definitely come back or try a new destination next year! Thank you!