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Join or Start a Chapter

Make a difference, grow as a leader, and explore global health beyond the classroom by joining or starting a MEDLIFE Chapter at your school or college.

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What is a MEDLIFE Chapter?

A MEDLIFE Chapter is a student-led group that brings the MEDLIFE Movement to your campus and local community.

Chapters give students the opportunity to learn about global health, develop leadership skills, and join Service Learning Trips in Latin America and Africa. These experiences go beyond traditional volunteering: students see how healthcare systems actually work, collaborate with local professionals, and better understand the social factors that impact health.

With a network of 400+ schools across the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and beyond, MEDLIFE Chapters are a gateway to meaningful involvement in community-driven impact.

What MEDLIFE Chapters Do

Learn and lead on Campus

Chapters host regular meetings focused on global health, health equity, and social development. Students build leadership skills while organizing events, managing projects, and growing their chapter.

Take action in their communities

Members organize local service initiatives, fundraisers, and awareness campaigns that support long-term projects in partner communities.

Participate in Service learning trips

Students can join 1–2 week Service Learning Trips in Peru, Ecuador, Guatemala, Costa Rica, or Tanzania. There, they work alongside local doctors, staff, and community leaders, contributing to ongoing initiatives that prioritize continuity of care through patient follow-up and year-round support.
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 Why Join or Start a Chapter? 

Strengthen your applications through leadership

Take on real responsibilities: leading teams, organizing initiatives, and managing projects, so you can speak about concrete experiences in med school or graduate applications.

Deeper understanding of global health

Go beyond textbooks and build a more complete perspective on how healthcare systems work and how social factors influence patient outcomes across different communities.

Be part of a global network

Join a network of 20,000+ students from different backgrounds, across 400+ high schools and universities, all working toward similar goals: growing as future professionals while contributing to long-term impact.

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The impact of MEDLIFE Chapters

  1. Support long-term development projects through initiatives like Moving Mountains
  2. Expand access to healthcare, education, and safe housing in partner communities
  3. Raise awareness about global health inequality
  4. Stay engaged in service both locally and globally
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Our Alumni: Where They Are Now

Ever wondered where our former MEDLIFE chapter members and volunteers ended up after their time with us? Look no further! We’re proud to highlight the incredible journeys of our alumni who have gone on to become amazing professionals and change-makers in their respective fields:

Explore Their Stories

Find or Start a MEDLIFE Chapter

Explore the Interactive Map

Browse chapters by location and discover nearby schools in the MEDLIFE network.

If a chapter exists, you can join right away by reaching out through your school’s club directory, contacting the chapter leadership, or asking a faculty advisor for more information.

 

How to Join a Chapter

Start by checking if your school already has a MEDLIFE Chapter.

Find Your Chapter

 How to Start a Chapter 

 If there’s no chapter at your school, you can start one with support every step of the way: 

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Submit your application

Complete the form at the bottom of the page to begin the process.
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Connect with a MEDLIFE advisor

A MEDLIFE advisor will reach out to guide you and answer any questions.
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Get approved and trained

Once approved, you’ll become a Chapter Founder and gain access to training, tools, and resources.
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Launch your chapter

Start recruiting members, hosting meetings, and organizing initiatives on campus.

All new chapters are supported by a dedicated Chapter Coach who provides ongoing guidance on meetings, events, fundraising, and planning Service Learning Trips.

FAQs

Who can start a MEDLIFE Chapter?

Any high school or college student can apply to start a chapter, and faculty members can also support the process. You don’t need prior experience—just motivation to lead, learn, and stay committed to growing your chapter over time.

Do I need to be a pre-med student to join?

Not at all. While many members are interested in pre-med or healthcare, MEDLIFE Chapters are open to students from all majors and backgrounds. Anyone interested in leadership, global health, or community impact can get involved and contribute.

What kind of support will I receive?

You’ll receive ongoing support from a dedicated Chapter Coach, plus access to training sessions, resources, and tools to help you run meetings, organize events, and plan activities. You’re never building your chapter alone.

What do chapters typically do during the year?

Chapters host meetings, organize fundraisers, run awareness campaigns, and participate in local service initiatives. Many also plan and attend Service Learning Trips, while staying engaged in long-term impact efforts both locally and globally.

How much time does it require?

The time commitment depends on your level of involvement. General members can participate in meetings and events as their schedule allows, while leaders typically dedicate more time to planning and organizing activities throughout the semester.

Can I join if my school already has a chapter?

Yes! If there’s an existing chapter at your school, you can join as a member and get involved right away. You’ll be able to participate in meetings, events, and leadership opportunities within the team.

Will I be able to join a Service Learning Trip?

Yes, chapter members often have the opportunity to participate in Service Learning Trips. These are educational experiences where students work alongside local professionals and communities, gaining real insight into global health systems.

Do I need leadership experience to start a chapter?

No previous leadership experience is required. MEDLIFE provides training, guidance, and ongoing mentorship to help you build the skills needed to lead your chapter effectively over time.

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Ready to Get Started?

Join a global network of 50,000+ students who are building leadership experience, exploring global health, and making the most of their time in high school and college!