Medical Mission Trip

My Mission Trip Journey

Summer 2025 – The Beginning
As a high school student, I was still uncertain about what I wanted to pursue in the future. When the opportunity arose to join a mission trip to the Dominican Republic, I decided to step outside my comfort zone. I saw it as a chance not only to serve others but also to discover more about myself and where my passions might lead me.

Why I Joined – Encouragement & Curiosity
The idea of going on a mission was first introduced to me by my mom, who strongly encouraged me to take part. At first, I was hesitant, but the more I thought about it, the more curious I became. I had heard countless stories about the impact of mission trips — how they change lives, build connections, and shape futures. I realized I wanted to experience that for myself, to see firsthand the reality of service and the difference it could make.

First Impressions – A Rural Community
When I arrived, I was struck by the contrast between my daily life and the environment around me. The village was rural, made up of homes constructed by each family from whatever materials they could find. Electricity was scarce, drawn in limited amounts from the nearby highway. Despite these challenges, I noticed the resilience and warmth of the community. It was a humbling reminder of the privileges I often take for granted and the strength of people who adapt and thrive with so little.

On the Field – Learning Dentistry in Action
My role on the mission placed me alongside a dentist, where I assisted in small but meaningful ways. I observed how extractions and cleanings were performed, and I learned about the importance of sanitary procedures. For the first time, I could connect what I had only read about in textbooks to real-life practice. Watching healthcare delivered in such a direct, hands-on setting gave me a deeper respect for the skill and responsibility that come with dentistry.

Beyond Teeth – Building Human Connections
What made the greatest impression on me went beyond the procedures themselves. As patients came in, often anxious or in pain, I witnessed how the dentist built trust through patience and compassion. Even as I helped in small ways, I found myself connecting with the patients as well. I realized dentistry wasn’t just about technical skill — it was about people. It was about offering care, comfort, and dignity to those who needed it most.

A New Path – Choosing Dentistry as My Future
By the end of the trip, my perspective on the future had completely changed. Seeing the dentist’s impact on the community helped me realize that this was the kind of work I wanted to dedicate myself to. Dentistry combined science, service, and human connection in a way that resonated deeply with me. That mission trip didn’t just expose me to a career — it gave me clarity about my calling.

Advice for Others – Take the Leap
Looking back, I believe every student should consider participating in a mission trip or similar service opportunity. It pushes you outside of your comfort zone, challenges your assumptions, and offers experiences that no classroom can fully replicate. For me, it was life-changing. It showed me that serving others can also reveal your own path, and that sometimes the best way to find direction in your life is to step forward with courage and an open heart.

Today – Continuing the Journey
Now, I carry the lessons from that mission trip into everything I do. It not only inspired my career goal of becoming a dentist but also deepened my commitment to serving others with empathy and compassion. The trip was just the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning, growth, and giving back.