Global Health and Development
Spring Immersion Trip
Trip Overview
Get ready to explore ways we can impact change! Global Health and Development developed an annual immersive trip to explore local, community-led programs across the globe. Each experience offers a rich learning environment through the location, established Dartmouth partners, and cultural understanding.
You’ll engage with different health and development systems, local colleagues, as well as industry and commerce elements shaping the economy and culture. The immersive nature of the trip will include outdoor activities and cross-country travel. Aspects of the trip will center around policy, science, community engagement, Indigenous Knowledge, and stewardship. We will meet with researchers, policymakers, sustainability enterprises, Indigenous Knowledge holders, and commercial industry experts.
Itinerary
Day 1: Travel from Hanover NH to Lima, Peru
Days 2-3: Visit with health and educational development partner organizations in Lima.
We will travel to urban neighborhoods, meet with our partners, and gain insight into the urban healthcare and education systems. Lima is a coastal city known for its colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and world-renowned food scene.
Days 4-5: Travel to Cuzco, and examine the cultural and industry drivers of Peru
Once the capital of the Incan Empire, Cuzco is a high-altitude city in the Andes Mountains. We’ll learn about rural health and education disparities and explore the cultural legacy of the region. The altitude is around 11,000 feet—so prepare for acclimatization!
Day 6: Hike the last leg of the Inca Trail
Day 7: Explore Machu Picchu, and return to Lima
Machu Picchu – A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This ancient Incan city will be a cultural and historical highlight of the trip.
Day 8: Survey the cultural offerings of Lima
Day 9: Travel home
Why Peru?
Peru is one of Latin America’s most geographically and culturally diverse countries. It is home to ancient civilizations, vibrant cities, and breathtaking natural wonders. However, it also faces critical challenges related to health and education access, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
This trip will focus on:
- Understanding the structural inequities affecting healthcare and education delivery
- Learning from local organizations that are driving change
- Practicing cross-cultural engagement with communities and professionals
Additionally, Peru’s recent innovations in education models and its community-based healthcare systems make it an ideal learning destination for global health students.
Who Are Our Partners?
Socios En Salud
Socios En Salud (Partners In Health Peru) is a nonprofit organization that has worked in Peru for decades to provide healthcare to marginalized populations. Their model focuses on community-based health, social justice, and health systems strengthening. You’ll learn how they tackle diseases like tuberculosis, support maternal health, and build community trust in healthcare.
Innova Schools
Innova Schools is a private school network in Peru that is redefining accessible, high-quality education through a blend of in-person and virtual learning, innovation, and student-centered pedagogies. Their work addresses educational inequality and aims to empower students with 21st-century skills. You’ll engage with their team and analyze their unique model through a case study.
Eligibility
• Must be a current Global Health Fellow.
• Must be able to attend mandatory education sessions on-campus during Winter term 2026. There will be five 2 hour-long sessions.
• Must have a valid US Passport, or if you are an international student, you must have appropriate visas to travel to Peru. Please check with the OVIS office representatives if you need help determining this, reach out to TraVisa, and mention you’re a Dartmouth student. Visa costs will be covered for selected candidates.
• Be aware that travel takes place during spring break.
Cost
The costs of the trip, including round-trip airfare from Boston to Lima, meals, and shared accommodations, will be covered by the Dickey Center.
Candidate Qualities
Ideal candidates should:
- Be curious and self-motivated learners
- Have a demonstrated passion for Global Health and Development
- Have a sense of adventure
- Be able to cooperate with others
- Be comfortable sharing thoughts and discussing with others
- Be able to adapt to new and sometimes challenging situations that may put you outside of your comfort zone.
Application
Applications are due Wednesday, October 22 at midnight.
Questions?
Dawn Carey | Dawn.E.Carey@dartmouth.edu
Ale Carrasco Alayo | Ale.Carrasco.Alayo@dartmouth.edu