The trip taught me so much. As a first-year medical student who had never traveled outside of the East Coast, let alone outside of the country, I was very nervous to sign up for and attend this specific trip. Looking back, I see now that God was calling me out of my comfort zone, opening my eyes to see how He is working in other parts of the world. Spending a week in the Dominican Republic alongside a team of medical professionals, nurses, medical students, and physical therapy students was both humbling and transformative. I made great friends on this trip that I hope to serve alongside again.
I was not ready for how difficult it would be to witness the living conditions of many of the individuals we served. I also realized how naïve I had been in my understanding of access to medical care in other countries. Seeing firsthand the barriers that people face—limited resources, lack of consistent care, and hard living conditions—deeply impacted me and challenged my previous assumptions. There were unable to gain medication for their condition that they needed to survive and others who had not seeked medical care for things because they could not reach a physician or could not pay for one. These experiences not only broke my heart but also strengthened my desire to serve communities that are often overlooked.
The language barrier was another challenge that initially made me feel uncertain and limited in how I could help. I am not a native Spanish speaker and not amazing at French either (the two languages that we encountered on the trip). However, God faithfully provided local students who were willing to translate for us. Their presence made an incredible difference, allowing us to communicate with patients, understand their needs, and show them care in a more personal and meaningful way. Through this, I was reminded that even when I feel inadequate, God equips His people with exactly what they need to serve others.
Throughout the week, we saw hundreds of patients each day, and it was powerful to witness not only physical healing but also spiritual transformation, as several individuals gave their lives to Christ. It was incredible to see how God could use even small acts of service to make such a profound impact. Although I initially doubted how much I could contribute as a medical student, I came to understand that simply being present, helping with triage, in pharmacy, and learning from those around me were meaningful ways to serve.
This experience has shaped my calling as a future physician. It has given me a deeper understanding of the needs of underserved communities and a stronger desire to pursue outreach in similar settings. My goal is not only to care for patients medically, but also to reflect God’s love through compassion, service, and presence. This trip reminded me that medicine is not just about treating illness, but about meeting people where they are and serving them with both skill and heart.
I was not ready for how difficult it would be to witness the living conditions of many of the individuals we served. I also realized how naïve I had been in my understanding of access to medical care in other countries. Seeing firsthand the barriers that people face—limited resources, lack of consistent care, and hard living conditions—deeply impacted me and challenged my previous assumptions. There were unable to gain medication for their condition that they needed to survive and others who had not seeked medical care for things because they could not reach a physician or could not pay for one. These experiences not only broke my heart but also strengthened my desire to serve communities that are often overlooked.
The language barrier was another challenge that initially made me feel uncertain and limited in how I could help. I am not a native Spanish speaker and not amazing at French either (the two languages that we encountered on the trip). However, God faithfully provided local students who were willing to translate for us. Their presence made an incredible difference, allowing us to communicate with patients, understand their needs, and show them care in a more personal and meaningful way. Through this, I was reminded that even when I feel inadequate, God equips His people with exactly what they need to serve others.
Throughout the week, we saw hundreds of patients each day, and it was powerful to witness not only physical healing but also spiritual transformation, as several individuals gave their lives to Christ. It was incredible to see how God could use even small acts of service to make such a profound impact. Although I initially doubted how much I could contribute as a medical student, I came to understand that simply being present, helping with triage, in pharmacy, and learning from those around me were meaningful ways to serve.
This experience has shaped my calling as a future physician. It has given me a deeper understanding of the needs of underserved communities and a stronger desire to pursue outreach in similar settings. My goal is not only to care for patients medically, but also to reflect God’s love through compassion, service, and presence. This trip reminded me that medicine is not just about treating illness, but about meeting people where they are and serving them with both skill and heart.
What a beautiful narrative of your first experience on the mission field Carolyn! I rejoice in your newly gained insights, confident in, “that He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”-Philpps 1:6 CSB.
It was a privilege to work with such a remarkable group of students. I often pray for young professionals like you to have life changing experiences on the mission field. I am delighted to learn how much the mission trip impacted you.