Week Three in Lima
Ian's MEDLIFE internship unfolds across Lima's communities, where sustainable development work meets the realities of service.
Three Weeks In
Finally settling in here in Lima and three weeks have already blown by. This internship has and will continue to be one of the most challenging but most rewarding times of my life. With the work we are doing in the communities, the realities we see each and every day, the emotions and feelings that go along with that and being thousands of miles away from home, it is a mind-opening experience. I am so happy that I am working with MEDLIFE and I have already gained an in-depth appreciation and understanding of this great organization.
Week Three in the Field
Building Community in Lima
Ian's hands-on work finishing a year-long MEDLIFE project that transforms a school into a safe space for children.
The Wall Takes Shape
Finishing the protective barrier that started as another intern's vision, now becoming a safe haven for young students.
A Park for Play
Children claim their new community space, a place built by hands committed to their future.
Working Hand in Hand
MEDLIFE, municipality, and community move together toward sustainable change that lasts.
Lima's Hidden Corners
Beyond the work sites, Ian discovered the city's quieter treasures. A tour of Lima Centro led to Kennedy Park, where hundreds of cats have made their home among the trees and stone. At Estación de los Desamparados, an old train station reimagined as a public library, stained glass windows honoring Peruvian authors cast colored light across the reading rooms. These moments—the unexpected encounters, the layered history—are what make a city real.
Meet Ian
A MEDLIFE volunteer intern from the University of Vermont, driven by biology and community development.
From Hamilton to Lima
Ian grew up in Hamilton, New Jersey, and studied Biology at the University of Vermont with a minor in Community & International Development. His path to Peru began freshman year when he joined MEDLIFE's local chapter—a decision that changed everything.
Leadership and Service
As president of his UVM chapter, mentor to two mentees, and volunteer at the University of Vermont Medical Center's pediatric floor, Ian brings commitment to every role. He's also a member of the UVM Triathlon club and loves the outdoors: hiking, snowboarding, and camping.
Building Sustainable Change
Ian's internship goal is to connect his Biology major and Community & International Development minor through sustainable community development projects that bring medical access to vulnerable communities. His first brigade to Cusco changed his perspective; now he's helping MEDLIFE do the same for others.
From Hamilton to Lima
Ian grew up in Hamilton, New Jersey, and studied Biology at the University of Vermont with a minor in Community & International Development. His path to Peru began freshman year when he joined MEDLIFE's local chapter—a decision that changed everything.
Leadership and Service
As president of his UVM chapter, mentor to two mentees, and volunteer at the University of Vermont Medical Center's pediatric floor, Ian brings commitment to every role. He's also a member of the UVM Triathlon club and loves the outdoors: hiking, snowboarding, and camping.
Building Sustainable Change
Ian's internship goal is to connect his Biology major and Community & International Development minor through sustainable community development projects that bring medical access to vulnerable communities. His first brigade to Cusco changed his perspective; now he's helping MEDLIFE do the same for others.
Ian's MEDLIFE Journey
From freshman volunteer to chapter president and internship leader—a path shaped by service in Peru and Ecuador.
First brigade to Cusco changed everything
Vice President and Brigades Officer
Now MEDLIFE Volunteer Affairs Intern
Ian's Mission
Ian came to Lima with a clear purpose: to connect his Biology major and Community and International Development minor through sustainable community development projects that bring medical access to vulnerable communities. Three weeks in, he's already seeing how MEDLIFE's work translates that vision into reality. Follow his journey on Instagram @ianmchale or Facebook to see what comes next.
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