Fourth-year student pharmacist Chancellor Nguyen recently had the opportunity to spend a week on a medical mission trip to Honduras with OneWorld Health. Serving as a pharmacy technician, the experience helped Nguyen to improve his medical Spanish, enhanced his patient counseling skills, and expanded his clinical expertise.
How did you become interested in going on the medical mission trip?
Studying pharmacy has made me more aware of the gaps in health care access around the world, and I have become passionate about finding ways to help close them. A medical mission trip felt like the perfect opportunity to work alongside a diverse team of professionals — doctors, nurses, other students, and non-health care personnel—and make an impact by helping people get the medications and care they need.
What did you do as part of the medical mission team?
I worked with families in Siguatepeque and nearby rural communities, helping to fill prescriptions, translate medication instructions into Spanish, and counsel patients on proper medication use. I also supported our team’s pharmacist with dosing and prescription verification, and as the only pharmacy student, I served as a resource to the pharmacy technicians by answering clinical questions and providing guidance. Our team set up clinics in community centers, churches, and schools.
Studying pharmacy has made me more aware of the gaps in health care access around the world, and I have become passionate about finding ways to help close them.
How did the trip impact you and influence your career path?
This experience was eye-opening and reinforced my passion for serving underserved communities. It showed me how important it is to connect with patients, understand their needs, and communicate clearly, especially across language barriers. I also learned to be adaptable, working with limited resources while still finding ways to provide the best care possible.
More than anything, the trip reminded me why I chose pharmacy in the first place. It inspired me to focus on making health care more accessible and ensuring patients truly understand their medications. I know the lessons I learned will stay with me and shape how I approach patient care moving forward.
What advice do you have for other students considering a medical mission trip?
A medical mission trip is a deeply rewarding experience, and I would encourage any student considering it to go for it. It’s not just about providing care — it is about connecting with people, understanding their challenges, and immersing yourself in a different culture.
Be prepared to step outside your comfort zone and adapt to new situations. Teamwork and flexibility are crucial since you will be working with limited resources and experiencing unique challenges. Most importantly, approach the experience with compassion and an open mind. Listen to the people you are helping and take the time to understand their needs.
This experience is just as much about what you learn as it is about what you contribute. It will stay with you and shape your perspective on patient care and health care accessibility. If you have the opportunity to go, don’t hesitate — you won’t regret it.
Topics: Pharm.D. Program, Experiential Learning