Congratulations to Sofia Negron (’25) and Sara Echavarria (’26) on their manuscript, titled “High School Students’ Perspectives: The Value of Volunteering on International Short-Term Medical Missions,” being accepted for publication in the Journal of Student Research (JSR). JSR is an academic peer reviewed journal that publishes a wide range of research articles for college and high school students.
This accomplishment is the result of a unique collaboration between Montverde Academy students, COAMED Foundation, and the Armed Forces of Colombia as part of a medical mission to Providencia and San Andres Island. The mission provided invaluable community service opportunities that not only allowed these students to contribute to healthcare delivery in underserved areas but also led to a scholarly examination of the impact of such experiences on high school students. These students took notes and gathered information during the 10-day mission trip and worked for weeks on this manuscript.
Their research explores the critical role that international short-term medical missions play in shaping students’ interests, career development, and personal growth. It emphasizes how these experiences foster networking and mentorship; offer instant gratification through service; and nurture compassionate, well-rounded individuals who gain a deeper understanding of different socioeconomic contexts.
This publication is a testament to the students’ commitment, teamwork, and the invaluable real-world impact of partnerships between the Academy, other nonprofit organizations, and international forces.
“We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Walter Eksteen for his unwavering support and belief in their work,” said Dr. Karina Acevedo, Sofia’s mother. “Despite being away from school, he graciously agreed to be a co-author and represented Montverde Academy in the article submission process. Furthermore, none of this would have been possible without the leadership and collaboration of Dr. Javier Miller, President of COAMED Foundation, along with the dedicated team of medical doctors and dentists. Their guidance not only allowed the girls to actively participate but also turned the mission into a remarkable teaching opportunity, providing them with an extraordinary hands-on experience.”
