Volunteer Name: Jamie Goldstein
Project Location: Quetzaltenango
Volunteered at: Centro de Salud (Clinic)
Volunteer in Guatemala Medical Program
1- How was the local ABV Coordinator and the support provided in-country?
Petra and Monica were great. Every time we needed sometimes they helped.
2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?
The traffic, how easy it is to get around. How grateful the patients are and how helpful the clinic staff is.
3- What was most difficult to experience?
Seeing a lot of young sick people with doctors not having the tools to diagnose.
4- Any tips for future volunteers… (clothing, travel, personal items, donations)
Don’t exchange money at the airport.
Be willing to help.
Brush up on Spanish before coming.
Research weekend activities before.
For medical clinics, get detailed list or photos of what they need.
5.1-Other things volunteers should know:
a. Be open minded
b. Be flexible
c. Have fun
6- Personal Paragraph (ABV Program Testimonial):
Truly a life changing 2 weeks. This trip allowed me to step outside my comfort zone, improve my Spanish and tested my medical clinical skills. This trip was just amazing and I now have lifelong friends.
7- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security (e: host family, on-site, shared)
Food was great. Our host family was great. I loved the clinic but I felt like sometimes they didn’t need me so much.
8- What was your favorite memory of this trip?
Meeting the people.
9- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?
They were great, wish I knew more about the costs before I got here. (ABV: please let us know more about this answer Jamie)
10 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?
Yes!!