Through a friend in her chemistry class, Colorado Gamma Alex Wolf learned about Vida Volunteer, a service-learning program with the goal of helping future health professionals provide medical services to people in Central America. Since participating in the program would be Alex’s first time out of the country, she had her reservations about the trip. But Alex knew the vital services provided to the people, who needed her help greatly, outweighed any of her own fears. So in May 2015, prior to her last semester of college, Alex left her home of Houston to join Vida Volunteer on a 12-day service trip to Costa Rica and Nicaragua.
Alex flew from Houston to Miami for a quick layover. As Alex boarded her flight in Miami, she saw two young ladies in Pi Phi clothing, flanking either side of the aisle. They exchanged pleasantries: “Where are you a Pi Phi?” she asked. “Minnesota!” they responded. “Oh cool, I am from Colorado,” she said. But the conversation was brief as to not hold up other passengers. Seated a few rows behind them, Alex sat wondering, “It would be awesome if they were on my trip with me.”
The flight landed safely in Costa Rica, where they were required to go through customs. Alex wanted to approach her two sisters to ask about their travels, but hesitated. Luckily, the two Pi Phis approached Alex as they waited for their bags to come down the baggage carousel. It turns out that Minnesota Alphas Emily Schmidt and Blair Blanchette were also on the Vida Volunteer program, but focused on the Medical Program. Of course there was an instant connection between the three women, who decided to room together during the program. Any hesitation Alex had about being in another country alone were now gone. She was so excited to have her sisters by her side.
It was an extremely eye-opening experience for Alex to see how the people in these developing countries live. Alex participated in home visits with the team doctors, which were focused on medical aspects like checking heart rates and treating basic ailments. On clinic days, the group would have a dental clinic set up at a church or school. Alex would work alongside Costa Rican dentists shadowing them on treatments. Alex and her five other dental program peers were able to assist patients in basic cleanings consisting of brushing teeth and flossing.
Alex had such a powerful experience with Vida Volunteer that she knows this is something she wants to continue to do in her professional career. She is currently studying to take the Dental Admission Test and begin the interview process to get into Dental School. Wishing you lots of luck, Alex!