For nearly 20 years, University of Florida College of Medicine students have participated in week long global health service trips. This study aims to determine the effects of global service trips on medical student’s learning and their future career choices. An electronic survey was sent via email to 203 medical service trip participants, of which 75 surveys were completed for a total response rate of 37%. A descriptive analysis that includes counts and percentages for each of the survey questions was performed including cross tabulations. Chi square analysis was performed to compare two groups, current students versus alumni. Based on our study, global service trips positively impact trip participant’s medical skills. It showed improved history taking, physical examination, diagnostic and procedural skills, and medical decision making ability. It increased their cultural competency and empathy for the poor and underserved. It also reinforced their leadership skills but created stressor for the students participating in the trips. As far as impact on the choice of a medical specialty, our study showed mixed results.
