When I first joined Global Brigades at Tufts, I had no idea how much it would shape my life. It was right after the pandemic, and there hadn’t been an in-person brigade in years. Passionate about both medicine and travel, I saw an opportunity to relaunch the Tufts chapter. I recruited volunteers, revamped our social media, and planned my first brigade from almost scratch.
Insights from my first Brigade
In July 2023, I boarded a bus to Darién, Panama, with 30 students, most of whom I had just met that day. I was nervous, but that week changed everything. We set up a free medical clinic, and throughout the week, we helped more than 300 patients. I left that first brigade knowing two things: I wanted to pursue a career in medicine, and this would not be my last brigade.
At Tufts, I made it my mission to strengthen our chapter. We fundraised and organized another Brigade, this time to Honduras. I learned to appreciate the uniqueness of each brigade, with different communities, staff, volunteers, and challenges, but always the same sense of shared purpose. This is what makes Global Brigades special-the environment of respect and collaboration that is fostered by the volunteers, staff, and local leaders.
Clinic Stations and their impact
One of the most impactful experiences was assisting in the Gynecology station in Honduras. Many women received their first Pap smear, a preventive screening that they had previously lacked access to. Watching their courage and the doctors’ compassion opened my eyes to the profound need for women’s health care in underserved communities. This experience deeply influenced me. Today, I am conducting Gynecologic Oncology research at the University of Miami, intending to improve cancer outcomes for populations who are often overlooked and underserved.
What was next for me
Upon my return from Honduras, and having graduated from Tufts, I knew I wasn’t done with Global Brigades. I moved back home to Miami to prepare for medical school, and I joined Global Brigades, Inc. as an intern. I supported chapters across the U.S., recruited volunteers, and produced media that told our story—including a final video project from my most recent brigades with Tufts in Guatemala. Balancing this role alongside my master’s program in biomedical sciences at the University of Miami allowed me to stay immersed in global health while building toward my future.
From leading my first brigade to interviewing patients in Guatemala, I gained knowledge that now informs my research and career path. I’ve seen how brigades are not about quick fixes, but about building long-term, community-driven change. I am honored to continue advocating for Global Brigades and to carry forward the lessons I’ve learned into my future medic
Check out Sophia's experience on video:
Want to join a Brigade? Lead a Medical Brigade
Join the movement!
