From Classroom to Clinic: Exploring the Real World of Healthcare

For someone entering the healthcare field, going from classroom lectures to a job with real life patients can be scary, hectic, and overwhelming. Through LeadAbroad's PRO Costa Rica program, students are given the chance to gain real-world professional experience. The skills developed through this program are vital to one's success after college and provide students with the ability to enter the workforce with confidence.

Meet Mia Shirley. Mia is a junior at Mississippi State University on the pre-nursing track. Mia decided to attend the PRO Costa program and had a life changing experience working with the underprivileged communities.

Mia faced challenges being placed in a foreign country that spoke a language she was not fluent in, however, overcoming these challenges made the trip all the more rewarding. Mia says that, "this experience greatly shaped my career goals, and reminded me why I want to pursue healthcare: to serve others with compassion and purpose."

Every patient interaction had in Costa Rica was memorable and meaningful, but the second day of the medical campaign left the greatest impact on Mia. The second day of the campaign included going to a poverty stricken community near the San Jose airport. Mia was deeply affected by the state of the community, however felt deep accomplishment at the fact that they were able to provide care for the people living there.

While Mia is on the pre-nursing track, before this trip, she had very little knowledge on how to perform basic procedures like taking manual blood pressures. She was able to gain so much knowledge in these procedures because she was supported and encouraged by an amazing team of professionals. Mia stated, "their guidance helped me gain valuable hands-on experience and confidence in my abilities."

Mia attended the trip witthout knowing anyone else going, however, her nerves settled as she was welcomed with open arms. This trip provided her with so much growth, medically and personally. She gained experience in the medical field, learned how important working as a team was, embraced every moment with a grateful heart, and met many newfound friends.

If you are a healthcare professional looking for hands-on experience and a resume builder combined with travel and new friendships, then PRO Costa Rica is for you! Join our Interest List to learn more!

2026 Interest List!

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